In Arkansas, you need a license to work on HVAC systems (heating, venting and air conditioning). You can get one from the Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing. We’ve outlined the steps you need to take to get your HVAC contractor’s license, from the licensing process to insurance requirements, reciprocity availability and renewals.
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Yes, you need a license to be an HVAC contractor in Arkansas. The Department of Labor and Licensing, through the HVAC Licensing Board, oversees the licensing process and issues licenses.
The state of Arkansas keeps things simple for HVAC professionals; there is only one license: an HVAC-R contractor license. However, there are several classifications within the license for you to choose from:
If you take on jobs worth more than $50,000, you may need a Commercial Contractor license from the Arkansas Contractors Licensing Board. This license has much more extensive requirements, including a surety bond and providing a financial statement.
The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) mandates all HVAC-R professionals who service refrigeration systems must obtain EPA certification. HVAC technicians in Colorado must pass an exam with a minimum score of 70% and pay an exam fee of $120.
If you do any of the following activities, you’ll need to pursue EPA certification:
If you do business as a licensed contractor, you’ll need various types of HVAC insurance to fulfill state and licensing requirements. Other types of Arkansas business insurance are smart for any HVAC business owner to reduce their risk of financial losses.
If you have employees, you must provide workers’ compensation insurance. If you or one of your HVAC technicians gets hurt on the job, this insurance can help provide wage protection and pay for medical expenses and other benefits.
Learn more about workers’ compensation for contractors.
General liability insurance can help provide coverage if someone other than an employee claims that your company’s actions caused them injury or property damage.
As of 2022, class A, B, C, D and E license holders must now submit proof of a current general liability policy showing they have a minimum coverage of $250,000.
Learn more about general liability insurance for contractors.
Whether you own or rent your workspace, commercial property insurance is vital coverage for your business property. It also helps cover equipment, inventory and furniture related to your HVAC business.
A business owner’s policy, or BOP insurance, provides broad coverage of general liability and commercial property policies combined in a single, cost-efficient bundle. It can help cover damage that you or your employees may accidentally cause to another person’s property and help protect your business equipment in the event of a fire or other covered event.
Tools and equipment insurance can help protect your gear. It covers the replacement, theft, and damage of tools and equipment.
Arkansas mandates all drivers to carry auto insurance. Commercial auto insurance covers accident-related costs when you drive for work. This includes repairs and towing.
In the state of Arkansas, coverage minimums are:
Getting into the HVAC industry doesn’t require a formal apprenticeship, education or even legal requirements like a background check. You only need the federal EPA certification if you work with refrigerants.
If you’re working as an HVACR technician or gaining experience, you must register with the State Board. The only requirements are:
There are several requirements and steps to getting your HVACR license in Arkansas. They include the following:
The two years of experience can vary. The Board will review the experience provided — educational training, work experience, etc. — and make recommendations for sitting the exam. You cannot sit for the exam without prior approval.
Prov proctors the HVAC licensing exam for all license classes. The number of questions and subject matter will vary depending on license classification, but all tests are open-book and timed. To pass the exam, you must score at least 70%.
HVAC-R licenses expire annually, one year from when the license was issued. To qualify for renewal, you must complete at least four hours of continuing education and submit proof of current general liability and workers’ comp (if applicable).
Arkansas has no reciprocity agreements with other states for HVAC contractors. However, the Board will review your experience individually and determine exemption from testing.
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Looking for more information on what states require HVAC licenses? Check out our summary of HVAC contractor license requirements across the U.S.
This information has been provided as a service. It is correct and up-to-date to the best of our knowledge; however, it is in no way intended to offer legal advice and you must always consult with local authorities before you make any business decisions. Regulations and requirements may change at any time.
Jessica spent over a decade working in education before moving into content marketing. She has worked on content marketing campaigns in the edtech, real estate, and personal finance sectors. She has a passion for working with companies that take the time to educate their customers. When she’s not working, she’s probably outside with her two kids.
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