HVAC Contractor Permit Requirements in Chicago, IL

Complete permit and license guide for starting a hvac contractor in Chicago, Cook County, Illinois.

Updated 2026-03-15 4 stops $800–$2,800 est. 10–18 weeks to obtain all licenses
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Not legal advice. Requirements may change — always verify with your local government authority before applying. This guide was compiled from public and official sources (last updated ) and has not yet been independently source-verified — confirm each requirement before acting on it.

Federal — start here

2 stops

  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)

  2. EIN (Employer Identification Number)

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

    Official government source

    FreeImmediate (online application)

State of Illinois

1 stop

  1. Illinois Department of Public Health — HVAC Contractor License

    Illinois requires HVAC contractors to hold a state license. Contractors who also do refrigeration work must comply with EPA Section 608. Individual counties and municipalities in Illinois (including Chicago) have additional licensing requirements that may supersede state requirements.

    Official government source

    $100 application fee + $50 exam fee4–8 weeks

City of Chicago / Cook County

1 stop

  1. City of Chicago — Mechanical Contractor License (BACP)

    Chicago requires HVAC contractors to hold a City of Chicago Mechanical Contractor license from the Department of Business Affairs and Consumer Protection (BACP). A licensed Master Mechanic must be on staff. This is separate from any state license.

    Official government source

    $285/year (contractor license) + $125/year (master license)4–8 weeks

Terminus

Open for business — est. $800–$2,800 · 10–18 weeks to obtain all licenses

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Official Sources

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