California C-20 License

How to Get Your C-20 Warm-Air Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) License in California

If you install or service heating and air conditioning systems, the C-20 license lets you take jobs of any size legally. You need to pass two exams, and you can study for both online.

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What the C-20 license covers

The C-20 is for HVAC contractors who install and service heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning systems.

Furnaces and heat pumps
Air conditioning systems
Ductwork and ventilation
HVAC repairs and replacements

C-20 license requirements

At least four years of journey-level experience in HVAC work within the last ten years
Pass the C-20 Warm-Air Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) trade exam
Pass the CSLB Law and Business exam
A $25,000 contractor license bond
Workers’ compensation insurance if you have employees
Fingerprinting and a background check

How to get your C-20 license, step by step

Confirm your experience. Make sure you have four years of HVAC experience and someone who can verify it.
Submit your CSLB application. We help you fill it out correctly so it isn’t sent back.
Study for both exams online. Work through the trade and Law and Business material and practice tests at your own pace.
Pass your exams. Pass our practice tests first, and if you don’t pass the CSLB exam the first time, we pay your retest fee.
Get your bond and insurance, and receive your license.

Get your C-20 license online

Diamond

$899

Winter Discount through Dec 31. Both exams, practice tests, application help, live Zoom teaching every Tuesday, contract templates, $200 off incorporation, and a free business setup call.

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Gold

$799

Online prep for both the C-20 Warm-Air Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) trade exam and the Law and Business exam, with practice tests and help with your application.

Enroll in Gold

C-20 license questions

How many exams do I need to pass for the C-20?

Two: the C-20 Warm-Air Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning (HVAC) trade exam and the CSLB Law and Business exam. Our online course prepares you for both.

How much experience do I need?

CSLB asks for at least four years of journey-level experience (or as a foreman, supervisor, or owner) in HVAC work within the last ten years. Someone who knows your work signs off on it.

Can I study for the C-20 online?

Yes. Our online course covers both exams, with practice tests and help with your CSLB application, on your own schedule, in English or Spanish.

When do I need a license?

In California, you need a contractor license for jobs worth $1,000 or more, including labor and materials. Working without one on jobs above that amount can lead to fines.