How to Verify an HVAC License in Texas

Step 1: Understand What License Is Required

The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) regulates air conditioning and refrigeration (ACR) work in Texas. But there are different license types—and it's important to know which one you need:

• ACR Contractor: A licensed contractor who can pull permits, design systems, and oversee installation and service work. This is the person in charge on any permitted project.
• Technician Certificate: A technician who can perform HVAC work but must work under the supervision of a licensed contractor. They cannot pull permits independently.

It's not uncommon for one person to hold both certifications—that's actually the norm for most HVAC business owners.

Step 2: Get the License Number

Ask the HVAC contractor for their license number before work begins. They should be able to provide it immediately. Many contractors have it on their business card, website, or truck. If they can't or won't provide it, that's a major red flag.

Step 3: Search on LicenseStatusVerify or TDLR

You have two options to verify an HVAC license:

• LicenseStatusVerify:Search by name or license number to see the contractor's current status.
• TDLR directly: Use the official TDLR license search tool for the most up-to-date information.

Step 4: Check Status and Expiration Date

When you find the contractor's record, look for two things:

• Status: Must show ACTIVE. Any other status (EXPIRED, SUSPENDED, REVOKED, INACTIVE) means they are not currently licensed to work.
• Expiration date: Even if the status is active, check when the license expires. A license expiring in the next month or two is a concern—they may not renew.

Step 5: Match License Type to Job Scope

Before signing a contract, confirm the contractor has the right license for your job:

• New installation or permit work: Must have an ACR Contractor license. A Technician certificate alone is not sufficient.
• Service or maintenance work:Can be performed by either a Contractor or Technician (under a Contractor's supervision).
• Refrigeration systems:Handled by the same ACR licensing—verify the contractor is licensed for refrigeration if that's part of the work.

What "Registered" vs "Licensed" Means in the HVAC World

In TDLR records, you may see the term "registered" or "licensed." Both refer to active, valid credentials. Registered technicians have completed training and background checks but are working under a contractor's supervision. Licensed contractors are independently permitted to run jobs. Both statuses are legitimate—the key is that the status is active.

Red Flags: Unlicensed HVAC Work and What to Avoid

Working with an unlicensed HVAC contractor has serious consequences:

• Warranty void: Equipment manufacturers often void warranties if installed by an unlicensed technician.
• Insurance issues:Your homeowner's or commercial insurance may not cover damage from unlicensed work.
• No legal recourse: If the work is defective, you have limited ability to sue or file a complaint.
• Safety hazards: Licensed work is inspected and must meet code. Unlicensed work may not.
• Criminal liability: In some cases, the contractor performing the work can face criminal charges.

Always verify before you hire. It takes less than 5 minutes and can save you thousands of dollars.