How do I become an HVAC apprentice in California?
Short answer:Experience before the journeyman exam: Contractor exam (C-20 or C-38): at least 4 years of journey-level or higher experience in the class; up to 3 years can be credited for training, apprenticeship or education.
Last checked. Official source: cslb.ca.gov.

Licensing rules
| Who licenses this trade | Not yet confirmed with an official source, check the official link. |
|---|---|
| Apprentice registration | Not yet confirmed with an official source, check the official link. |
| Experience before the journeyman exam | Contractor exam (C-20 or C-38): at least 4 years of journey-level or higher experience in the class; up to 3 years can be credited for training, apprenticeship or educationOfficial source: cslb.ca.gov |
| Apprentices per supervisor | Not yet confirmed with an official source, check the official link. |
| Who can supervise an apprentice | Not yet confirmed with an official source, check the official link. |
Last checked . 1 of 5 items confirmed against official sources; flagged items are still pending. Main board: Contractors State License Board (C-20 HVAC and C-38 Refrigeration contractor classifications).
Frequently asked questions
How much experience do you need before the journeyman HVAC technician exam in California?
Contractor exam (C-20 or C-38): at least 4 years of journey-level or higher experience in the class; up to 3 years can be credited for training, apprenticeship or education.Source: cslb.ca.gov
HVAC technicians and apprentices in California
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Next steps
Electrical in California · Plumbing in California · California overview · HVAC in every state