The average new HVAC contractor spends 3–6 months figuring out licensing before taking their first legal job. Most of that time is wasted on the wrong agencies, wrong forms, and wrong order of operations. This checklist eliminates that.

• ✓State HVAC contractor license
  Exact exam, experience hours, and fees by state. Most require 4+ years under a licensed tech + written exam ($50–$150).
• ✓EPA Section 608 Certification
  Required by federal law to purchase and handle refrigerants. Exam fee: $20–$40. Prep courses: $100–$300. Available through HVAC Excellence, NATE, and others.
• ✓Business entity formation (LLC + EIN)
  State filing fees range from $50 (Kentucky) to $500 (Massachusetts). Takes 1–3 weeks. EIN from IRS is free and instant online.
• ✓City business license
  Separate from state license. Required in most cities. Cost: $50–$400/yr. Apply at city hall or online — varies by municipality.
• ✓General Liability + Workers' Comp insurance
  Most residential clients require $1M+ GL minimum. Workers' comp required if you have employees. Typical first-year GL cost: $1,200–$3,500.
• ✓Surety bond
  Required by many states and some clients. Typically $5,000–$25,000 bond. Annual premium is 1–3% of bond amount ($50–$750/yr).
• ✓HVAC contractor bond + permit pulling rights
  Understand what your license level lets you pull permits for — and what requires a master HVAC license vs. journeyman.
• ✓ Your first 90-day action plan
  Week-by-week: from zero to licensed to first paying customer.