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If you want to become an HVAC mechanic in the U.S. Virgin Islands, you must first obtain a proper license from the Department of Licensing and Consumer Affairs. Discover what licenses are available and what the requirements are to obtain them.

Available Licenses

There are three types of mechanical licenses available to residents of the Virgin Islands. They are journeyman mechanic (HVAC), master mechanic (HVAC), and mechanical contractor (HVAC). Each has its own requirements and facilitates different types of work.

Journeyman Mechanic (HVAC)

A journeyman mechanic is permitted to install, maintain, and repair HVAC systems for residential and commercial structures, including refrigeration systems. However, work must be conducted under the supervision of a master mechanic or mechanical contractor.

There are several requirements to obtain a journeyman license, including submitting:

• Completed and notarized application
• Three 2"x2" passport-size photographs of the applicant
• Registration fees
• Proof of at least four years of training under a licensed master mechanic or a mechanical contractor, including an employer certification of apprenticeship and a signed conditional agreement between the employer and the journeyman applicant
• Tax clearance letter

At the board's discretion, 1500 hours or more of study at an approved, accredited school may be applied to the experience requirement.

You must also pass a trade exam to prove competency in your field.

Master Mechanic (HVAC) or Mechanical Contractor (HVAC)

A master mechanic can perform the same job duties as a journeyman but without supervision. This license also allows professionals to pull permits, sign off on inspections, and supervise journeyman workers.

As a mechanical contractor, you can also plan/design, execute, and oversee projects involving HVAC, refrigeration systems, and gas piping. Both licenses allow the holder to bid directly on projects. To obtain a license, you must submit:

• Completed and notarized application
• Three 2”x2” passport-size photographs of the applicant
• Registration fees
• Proof of at least five years of experience as a journeyman
• Proof of general liability and workers' compensation insurance and any other required insurance policies
• Applicable college or trade school transcripts, submitted directly by the institution
• Letter of favorable character testimony
• Two letters of professional reference from a licensed contractor (with proof of reference certification) familiar with the applicant's mechanical/HVAC experience
• Proof of financial responsibility
• Proof of qualifying business address

You must also pass a state trade exam. If you have a master mechanic license, you can apply for a mechanical contractor license, and if you meet all requirements, you may not be required to take an additional exam.

Mechanical License Exam

In addition to these requirements, all applicants for mechanical licenses must pass the VI Mechanical Exam administered by PSI Services. This open-book exam features 80 questions covering topics such as:

• Air conditioning
• Warm air heating
• Refrigeration
• Controls and motors
• Ventilation
• Evaporative coolers
• Boilers
• Fuel piping systems
• Steam, hot, chilled, and condensing water
• Water piping systems
• Testing, balancing, and inspection
• Sizing and estimating

You will have four hours to complete this exam. You must answer at least 75% of the questions (60) correctly to pass.

Exam Prep Designed for Success

The right exam prep program is designed to help working professionals pass on the first try. Look for convenient 24/7 online access and courses developed by industry experts and educators.

It's time to take your career to the next level by obtaining a mechanical license in the Virgin Islands. Contact RocketCert now to get started.