HVAC license requirements in Rhode Island
The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Mechanical Trades issues HVAC licenses in Rhode Island. Here's what each license level takes, from the official rules.
Issued by
Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Mechanical Trades
Official siteRequirements checked October 21, 2026
License levels
In order, from the first license to the top one.
- 1
Refrigeration/Air Conditioning Journeyperson
The required hours as a registered apprentice, or two years of trade school plus three years as a registered apprentice. Then the exam.
Official source - 2
Refrigeration/Air Conditioning Master
A journeyperson license held for at least one year, then the master exam.
Official source
Rules, fees and exam schedules change. Confirm the details with the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Mechanical Trades before you apply.
HVAC technicians in Rhode Island
From the Bureau of Labor Statistics. See a city for local wages and contractor counts.
- HVAC technicians employed
- 1,450
- Median hourly wage
- $32.39
HVAC market data by city
Once you're licensed
Tradesman runs the business side for HVAC technicians: estimates, scheduling, invoicing and payments in one app.
HVAC licensing in Rhode Island: common questions
Who issues HVAC licenses in Rhode Island?
The Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training, Mechanical Trades. The license levels and what each takes are listed above, with a link to the official source for each.
What does the Refrigeration/Air Conditioning Master license take in Rhode Island?
A journeyperson license held for at least one year, then the master exam.
What's the first HVAC license in Rhode Island?
The Refrigeration/Air Conditioning Journeyperson. The required hours as a registered apprentice, or two years of trade school plus three years as a registered apprentice. Then the exam.
Licensed and ready for more customers?
Tradesman handles estimates, scheduling and invoicing so you can spend your time on the work. Now in early access.