Idaho HVAC license requirements

This guide summarizes what Idaho requires to work as an HVAC technician, with a link to the state's own source for every requirement. Rules change; check the linked source before you apply.

Apprentices

HVAC apprentices and specialty apprentices must register with DOPL and maintain that registration. (source)

Journeyman level: experience and exam

8,000 hours of apprentice work experience plus 576 hours of board-approved instruction, or alternatively 16,000 hours of HVAC experience. (source)

Journeyman applicants must pass a board-designated exam; Idaho HVAC exams are offered through PSI. (source)

Master level

Idaho has no master HVAC license; the four classifications are apprentice, journeyman, HVAC contractor and HVAC specialty contractor. (source)

Contractor license

HVAC contracting requires an Idaho HVAC contractor (or specialty contractor) certificate of competency, and contractors must provide a $2,000 bond. (source)

Renewal, continuing education and fees

HVAC certificates of competency expire 24 calendar months from the date of issue. (source)

$35 application fee. (source)

Licensed in another state

Idaho's universal licensure law requires licensing authorities to offer licensure to people holding a current, valid, unrestricted license from another U.S. state who demonstrate competency. (source)

Check a license

Idaho's public license lookup: https://edopl.idaho.gov/OnlineServices/?link=PubSearch

Pay for HVAC technicians in Idaho

Statewide figures for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (SOC 49-9021), all employers, from the Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS):

• Median hourly wage: $27.04 (BLS OEWS)
• Median annual wage: $56,240 (BLS OEWS)
• 10th percentile: $18.59 (BLS OEWS)
• 90th percentile: $38.84 (BLS OEWS)
• Estimated employment: 4,550 (BLS OEWS)

Release: May 2025 (source)

These are benchmarks, not job offers. A listing on Mountain West Trades shows the pay that employer posted.