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If you’re interested in pursuing an HVAC contractor C-20 license in California, you must make sure that you have everything in order before submitting your application. To begin the process of becoming a licensed contractor, you will need plenty of on-the-job experience before you even apply to take the examinations.

An HVAC contractor fabricates, maintains, installs, repairs, and services heating systems and water-heating heat pumps. This is in addition to ventilation systems and warm-air appliances, blowers, air conditioning systems, and the ducts, flues, registers, vents, and thermostats that go with them. 

Required Experience

The HVAC experience required prior to taking your examinations is substantial. Within the last 10 years, you must have had a minimum of four years of experience in HVAC work. 

This experience needs to be at no less than at the level of a journeyman or foreman. If you supervised employees, owner-builders, or contractors, that qualifies, too.

Bond and Insurance

To obtain your HVAC contractor C-20 license in California, you’re required to have a $15,000 contractor’s bond on file with CSLB. A $12,500 qualifying individual’s bond needs to be filed for all contractors who are qualified by an RME, as well. Additional bonds and insurance coverage is required for contractors who have employees.

Preparing for the HVAC Exams

Prior to scheduling a date and time to take your exams, you will need to obtain and fill out an application packet. You must include your verified work experience with your submission.

When you submit your application packet to the California State Division office, you will receive correspondence confirming your pre-approval status. This pre-approval grants you the eligibility to schedule your exam date.

There are two exams you will need to take to obtain your HVAC license in California: the California Business Law Exam and the HVAC Contractor Exam. 

In order to pass, you will need to devote time to studying the various topics that will be covered. Some of the topics covered in the HVAC Contractor Exam may include, but are not limited to:

• Troubleshooting, maintenance, and repair of systems and components
• Evaluation, estimation, and design
• Fabrication, installation, and startup
• Safety

Some of the topics that may be included in the Business Law Exam include:

• Public works
• Business finance
• Business organization
• Contract requirements and execution
• Licensing requirements
• Bonds, liens, and insurance
• Safety
• Employment requirements

After your submission packet receives pre-approval, you will be assigned a testing center close to you, along with a date and time. 

Exam Prep Bundles

The exams for obtaining your California HVAC license are closed-book, so you will need to put forth considerable time and effort into studying. 

Signing up with the best resource for online exam prep materials will be valuable in your journey to becoming licensed. An exam prep bundle that includes everything from online practice exams and video lectures to exam manuals and premium customer service is key.

Sign up with RocketCert today and give yourself every advantage you deserve when preparing to obtain your HVAC contractor C-20 license in California.