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How to get an HVAC license in Wisconsin

Hours, exam, fees and renewal for HVAC work in Wisconsin. Taken from official WI pages and checked .

Quick answer
  • Licensing body: Wisconsin Department of Safety and Professional Services (DSPS) — HVAC Contractor / HVAC Qualifier
  • State journeyman license: Yes (DSPS issues HVAC Qualifier certification (exam-based individual credential). HVAC Contractor is a business registration. Qualifier holders used by a business count as a certified HVAC business and may skip local HVAC business licenses (SPS 305.71).)
  • HVAC Qualifier: Before the exam: at least 1,000 hours/year for 4 years supervising or performing HVAC design/install/service/maintenance; or 4 years in an accredited HVAC-related school program; or any mix totaling 4 years.
  • Exam: see below, via DSPS HVAC Qualifier examination
  • Code edition: HVAC Qualifier: take and pass the DSPS exam (SPS 305.09). HVAC Contractor registration is application-based (no trade exam on the contractor rule).

Requirements by license

HVAC Qualifier

ExperienceBefore the exam: at least 1,000 hours/year for 4 years supervising or performing HVAC design/install/service/maintenance; or 4 years in an accredited HVAC-related school program; or any mix totaling 4 years.Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov · as of
ExamDSPS HVAC Qualifier examination. Apply to test with fees, pass the exam, then apply for certification with the certification fee.Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov · as of
Fees
  • HVAC Qualifier credential: $60
  • Application fee: $15
  • Renewal (4 years): $60
Source: dsps.wi.gov · as of · Exam fee separate per SPS 305.02 table. Reinstatement $200 if applicable.
RenewalEvery 4 years. Renews on date of issuance (4-year term). CE hours: N/A on the DSPS trades renewal table. Reinstatement fee $200 if needed.Source: dsps.wi.gov · as of
CE to renewDSPS trades renewal table lists CE as N/A for HVAC Qualifier.Source: dsps.wi.gov · as of

HVAC Contractor

ExperienceApplicant must be the business owner, a partner applying for a partnership, or the board chair/CEO for a corporation. Registration required to install or service HVAC equipment unless you qualify for an owner/occupant or in-house service exemption (SPS 305.70).Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov · as of
ExamNone for contractor registration. Submit DSPS application and fees. Uniform dwelling HVAC installs still need a building permit before work starts.Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov · as of
Fees
  • HVAC Contractor credential: $160
  • Application fee: $15
  • Renewal (4 years): $160
Source: dsps.wi.gov · as of
RenewalEvery 4 years. Renews on date of issuance. CE: N/A. Reinstatement $200.Source: dsps.wi.gov · as of
CE to renewDSPS lists CE as N/A for HVAC Contractor renewal.Source: dsps.wi.gov · as of

License types in Wisconsin

  • HVAC Contractor registration (business)
  • HVAC Qualifier certification (individual)
  • Local permits still required where UDC/building code applies
Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov · as of

Reciprocity (licensed in another state?)

HVAC Qualifier is a Wisconsin DSPS exam path. Local cities may still have permit rules even when Qualifier status replaces a local business license — ask the municipality.Source: docs.legis.wisconsin.gov · as of

What we couldn't confirm yet

We only publish what we can tie to an official source. These items aren't published anywhere we could verify, so ask the office listed:

  • Exact DSPS exam seat fee dollar amount for HVAC Qualifier (separate from the $60 credential fee).
    Ask: DSPS · (608) 266-2112 (contact source, as of )

FAQ

Does Wisconsin license HVAC statewide?

Yes. DSPS HVAC Contractor registration is required to install/service HVAC (with owner exemptions). HVAC Qualifier is an optional individual exam credential.

Qualifier experience?

1,000 hours/year for 4 years of HVAC work/supervision, or 4 years of HVAC school, or a mix.

Already licensed? See Wisconsin HVAC license renewal & CE.

Other states

Compare every state side by side: license requirements by state · renewal & CE by state.