HVAC Contractor Permit Requirements in Phoenix, AZ

1. EPA Section 608 Technician Certification

   Federal law requires all HVAC technicians who purchase or handle refrigerants to be certified under EPA Section 608 of the Clean Air Act. Certification is available in Type I (small appliances), Type II (high-pressure), Type III (low-pressure), and Universal categories. Certification is obtained through an EPA-approved testing organization such as ESCO Institute or NATE.

   Official government source

   $20–$60 (exam fee)·1–2 weeks (exam scheduling)

   $20–$60 (exam fee)

   1–2 weeks (exam scheduling)

2. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

   Required if you have employees or operate as an LLC or corporation. Free from the IRS.

   Official government source

   Free·Immediate (online application)

   Free

   Immediate (online application)

1. Arizona Registrar of Contractors — HVAC Contractor License (CR-39 Air Conditioning and Refrigeration)

   Arizona requires HVAC contractors to hold an ROC license in the air conditioning and refrigeration classification (CR-39 dual, or C-39 commercial / R-39 residential). Applicants need 4 years of qualifying trade experience, must pass the trade exam and the business management (Statutes & Rules) exam, and must post a surety bond set by license type and estimated annual volume (ARS 32-1152). Workers' compensation insurance is required if you have employees. Licenses renew every two years.

   Official government source

   Application/license fees vary by classification (statutory caps in ARS 32-1126) — see roc.az.gov/licensing-fees·6–10 weeks

   Application/license fees vary by classification (statutory caps in ARS 32-1126) — see roc.az.gov/licensing-fees

   6–10 weeks

1. City of Phoenix — Mechanical Permit

   Phoenix requires a mechanical permit for HVAC installation, issued by Phoenix Planning and Development Department. The installing contractor must hold an Arizona ROC license in an air conditioning and refrigeration classification (C-39, R-39, or CR-39; C-79-family licenses additionally cover solar).

   Official government source

   Varies by project valuation — see the Phoenix Planning and Development Department fee schedule·2–4 weeks

   Varies by project valuation — see the Phoenix Planning and Development Department fee schedule

   2–4 weeks

Official Sources

• Phoenix Planning and Development
• Arizona Registrar of Contractors — HVAC

Related Guides