HVAC Technician in Tennessee
Requirements, salary data, licensing costs, and career ROI for TN. Updated with 2024 BLS OEWS wage data.
BLS OEWS 2024, Tennessee.
Jobs (TN)
10-yr job growth
Licensing fees
Time to complete
route How to become an hvac technician in Tennessee
To become a licensed HVAC Technician in Tennessee, you must obtain a CMC-C (HVAC/Refrigeration Contractor) license from the Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors. This license is required for projects valued at $25,000 or more. Key steps include demonstrating at least three years (6,000 hours) of verifiable HVAC experience, passing both the Tennessee Business and Law Exam and the Tennessee HVAC/Refrigeration Exam, and submitting a comprehensive application package that includes a financial statement, proof of insurance, and a letter of reference. Applicants must also be at least 18 years old, have a high school diploma or GED, and possess an EPA Section 608 Certification. Tennessee offers trade exam waivers for qualified applicants licensed in Alabama, Arkansas, Georgia, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, West Virginia, and those holding the NASCLA National Exam.
bar_chart Salary percentiles
Source: BLS OEWS 2024 for Tennessee. Metro-area wages may differ significantly from the state aggregate.
checklist Tennessee requirements
| Licensing body | Tennessee Board for Licensing Contractors |
| State license | Required |
| Education | High school diploma or equivalent. |
| Experience | 6,000.0 hours |
| Exam | TN Business and Law Exam & TN HVAC/Refrigeration Exam ($114) |
| Application fee | $250 |
| Renewal | Every 2.0 years |
| Notes | A state contractor's license (CMC-C) is required for projects valued at $25,000 or more. Local jurisdictions may have journeyman/master licensing. Applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED. EPA Section 608 Certification is required for handling refrigerants. A financial statement reviewed by a CPA and proof of general liability and workers' compensation insurance are also required. A letter of reference is typically needed. |
work_outline Job outlook
AI & tech impact
This career has low exposure to AI automation. Most tasks require physical presence, human judgment, or hands-on skills that AI cannot easily replicate.
balance Is it worth it?
- check_circleTennessee license required — clearer credential signal to employers
- check_circleStrong 10-year job growth (+8.1%)
- check_circleLow AI disruption risk