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HVAC Technician Licensing in California

Review current requirements, exam details, renewal cycle, and salary outlook for hvac technician in California, including See agency and board contact links.

Last verified: Feb 12, 2026

Application Fee

See agency

Exam Requirement

State-approved exam

Renewal Cycle

See board renewal rules

Licensing Blueprint for HVAC Technician in California

Estimated timeline: 6-24 months

Core Requirements

  • License Type: Register with licensing agency
  • Education: Varies by state board
  • Examination: State-approved exam
  • Application Fee: See agency

Application Snapshot

  1. Licensing Authority

    Department of Consumer Affairs • Contractors State License Board

  2. Current Filing Fee

    See agency

  3. Renewal Cycle

    See board renewal rules

  4. Salary Position

    $65,290 median (9% above national)

  5. State Salary Rank

    #10 of 50 states

Step-by-Step Process (4)

  1. 1. Meet baseline eligibility requirements.
  2. 2. Complete approved education/training requirements.
  3. 3. Pass required exam(s) and submit application.
  4. 4. Maintain and renew license according to board rules.

Salary Insights in California

With a median salary of 65,290, HVAC Technicians in California earn 9% above the national median of $59,810. California ranks #10 among 50 states. The typical licensing timeline is 6-24 months.

State Hiring Climate (QCEW)

Steady

QoQ Employment Change

+1.4%

Average Weekly Wage

$1,758

Median annual salary

$65,290

Hourly estimate

$31.39
9% above national median

Difference: +$5,480

Percentile Distribution

Annual compensation
  • P1010th percentile$46,980
  • P2525th percentile$55,730
  • P50Median$65,290
  • P7575th percentile$84,720
  • P9090th percentile$107,600

State vs National Median

State: $65,290
National: $59,810

Total employment: 34,020 | Annual openings: N/A

HVAC Technician Salary Ranking

#10 of 50 statesfor HVAC Technician median salary
RankStateMedian Salary
#1Alaska83,660
#2Massachusetts76,990
#3Connecticut73,910
#4Minnesota73,390
#5Illinois71,620

Nearby States Comparison

HVAC Technician licensing across the region
StateMedian SalaryEducationExamTimeline
California$65,290Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Oregon$62,740Varies by state boardState-approved exam6-24 months
Nevada$59,230Degree requiredState exam required6-24 months
Arizona$56,580No educational requirementsState exam required6-24 months

License by Endorsement

Transfer requirements are state-specific. Use this quick matrix as a planning signal, then verify final endorsement rules with each board.

StateReciprocity ScoreTierNotes
California78HighBoard-specific review required.
Oregon78HighBoard-specific review required.
Nevada54LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
Arizona54LowState-specific exam conditions may apply. Documented experience may be required.
  • License status indicator: Active.
  • Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Official Licensing Agency

Department of Consumer Affairs • Contractors State License Board

9821 Business Park Drive, Sacramento, CA, 95827

Phone: 8003212752

Visit Official WebsiteCall BoardOpen in Maps

Related Careers in California

ProfessionMedian SalaryEducationTimeline
Carpenter$74,820Varies by state board6-24 months
Electrician$76,540Varies by state board6-24 months
Elevator Installer$137,340Varies by state board6-24 months
Locksmith$61,500Varies by state board6-24 months

FAQ

How long does it take to become a HVAC Technician in California?

Most applicants finish the licensing path in about 6-24 months, but timing can change based on education track, exam scheduling, and board processing.

What is the typical HVAC Technician salary in California?

The median annual salary for HVAC Technicians in California is 65,290. Salaries range from $46,980 (10th percentile) to $107,600 (90th percentile).

How does the HVAC Technician salary in California compare to the national average?

HVAC Technicians in California earn 9% above the national median of $59,810, with a state median of 65,290.

How many HVAC Technicians work in California?

California employs approximately 34,020 HVAC Technicians according to BLS data.

Can I transfer my HVAC Technician license to California from another state?

Transfer requirements vary by board. License status indicator: Active. Reciprocity and transfer rules vary by state board. Verify directly with the agency.

Who is the licensing agency for HVAC Technicians in California?

The licensing agency is Department of Consumer Affairs / Contractors State License Board. Review agency details at http://www.cslb.ca.gov/.