Texas HVAC Technician License Cost
Every fee the state charges, what training adds on top, and what the same licence costs in other states.
The fees, itemised
These are the state's own charges. Training is the big variable and is listed separately where the state sets a requirement.
| Item | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Application fee | $50 | |
| Renewal fee | $35 | |
| Total | $50 | before exam retakes |
The state fees are fixed. Training is the part that moves: community college, private trade school and employer-sponsored apprenticeship can differ by thousands of dollars for the same licence.
Renewal
Renewal costs $35 every year. Over ten years that is about $350 in renewals alone.
Cost in other states
| State | State fees | Time | Median pay |
|---|---|---|---|
| California | $650 | — | $70,050 |
| Florida | $535 | — | $52,220 |
| Texas | $50 | 11.5 mo | $54,640 |
Cheapest route we found: Texas at $50. Highest median pay: California at $70,050 — the two are rarely the same state, which is the whole decision.
Sources
- https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/certified-tech-apply.htm“Applicants may become qualified for technician certification by completing a department-approved certification program consisting of 2,000 hours of combined instruction and practical experience.”
- https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/certified-tech-apply.htm“To apply for a new technician registration, submit a completed Certified Technician Application Form (PDF) along with the non-refundable application fee of $50.”
- https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/technician-renew.htm“An air conditioning and refrigeration "registered technician" or "certification technician" designation is valid for a period of 1 year from the date of issue.”
- https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/technician-renew.htm“Registered technician | $20 | Certified technician | $35”
- https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/acrExamStats2025.htm“Certified ACR Technician | 39 | 83 | 122 | 31.97%”
- https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/acrexam.htm“Upon confirmation, you will receive an eligibility email notice from PSI.”
- https://www.tdlr.texas.gov/acr/acrstate.htm“If you hold an air conditioning license in South Carolina or Georgia, please see the licensing reciprocity page for information on licensing agreements between these states.”