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Heating, air conditioning, ventilation, and refrigeration (HVAC-R) are important components of residential, commercial, and industrial properties. These systems help to create and maintain comfortable interior environments for residents and workers, whether you’re dealing with heavy snow and freezing conditions or sweltering summer highs.

As an air conditioning electrician, you can provide needed services to families and businesses in your community. This in-demand service also means you’ll enjoy stable career prospects and a good salary.

However, you will first have to obtain a license from the Electrical Inspection and Licensing Division of the Arkansas Department of Labor and Licensing. This proves that you have the knowledge and skill to perform professional duties safely and effectively, and it allows you to do so legally. 

What does an AC electrician do, and how do you go about obtaining a license in Arkansas?

What Does an AC Electrician Do?

When you obtain an HVAC-R Electrician License, you will be permitted to install, maintain, and extend conductors and equipment related to HVAC and refrigeration units. You can perform these tasks for residential, commercial, and industrial properties. The addition of refrigeration expands the scope of work to cover a range of systems in retail and warehouse settings, as well as refrigerated trucks.

Requirements for Licensing

Before you can obtain an HVAC-R Electrician License, you must meet certain requirements, starting with completing two years of experience wiring HVAC-R equipment and/or wiring one- or two-family residences. 

You could also meet experience requirements if you hold an HVAC-R Electrician License issued by an Arkansas municipality or an HVAC-R Class A or B License issued by the state HVAC-R Licensing Board.

Next, you must obtain pre-approval from the State Board to sit for the Arkansas Electrical Heating & A/C Installation Contractor Exam. This open-book test consists of 60 questions on the following topics:

• National Electrical Code (NEC) Chapter 1
• NEC Chapter 2
• NEC Chapter 3
• NEC Chapter 4
• NEC Chapter 9
• Box fill
• Efficient power factor & neutral loads
• General theory
• Motors and branch circuit
• Motor feeders
• Motor protection
• Service
• Voltage drop

You will have three hours to complete this exam, and you must answer a minimum of 42 questions (70%) correctly to pass. Unfortunately, no reciprocal licensing agreements for HVAC-R electrician licenses from other states are currently offered by the Arkansas Electrical Inspection and Licensing Division.

Preparing for Your Exam

It is said that the best defense is a good offense, and when it comes to taking exams that can decide the future of your career, the right exam prep will help you defend against potential failure. 

Programs designed for working professionals will offer the convenience of 24/7 access to online materials as well as a self-paced learning format that works with your schedule. You’ll also enjoy courses created by industry experts and educators.

If you’re ready to obtain your HVAC-R Electrician License in Arkansas, RocketCert’s targeted programs can help you prepare for success on the first try. Contact us now to learn more.