Georgia Class I Restricted HVAC • PSI • 100 Scored Questions • 3.5 Hours • Scaled Score 70
Preparing for the Georgia Conditioned Air Contractor Class I Exam? This guide explains the official examination format, HVAC licensing requirements, approved reference books, load calculations, duct design, equipment installation, refrigeration systems, and exam preparation strategies.
Georgia officially identifies this credential as the Conditioned Air Contractor Class I (Restricted) license.
Licensing is regulated by the Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board, Division of Conditioned Air Contractors.
The examination is administered by PSI through computer-based testing.
The Class I examination contains 100 scored questions and 20 additional unscored pretest questions.
That means candidates may see 120 questions in total during their examination session.
The Class I testing period is three and a half hours. Georgia's examination handbook also describes a seven-hour, two-part testing program covering the Class I and Class II portions.
The minimum passing requirement is a final scaled score of 70. A scaled score is not necessarily the same as answering exactly 70 of the 100 scored questions correctly.
The Georgia Conditioned Air Class I examination is open book, but candidates may bring only references listed in PSI's official examination reference list.
The official examination blueprint covers four major subjects: Regulations, Laws and Administrative Functions; System Design; Installation; and Maintain and Repair System.
System Design is the largest subject, with 55 of the 100 scored questions.
The Class I license covers conditioned air systems or equipment that do not exceed 175,000 BTU of heating and 60,000 BTU of cooling.
Since one ton of cooling equals 12,000 BTU per hour, the cooling limit is equivalent to approximately five tons of cooling capacity.
That makes Class I an important licensing path for professionals working with residential heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems and smaller conditioned air installations.
However, Class I is restricted by the statutory equipment capacity limits. Contractors planning to work beyond those limits should investigate the Class II (Unrestricted) classification.
Important 2026 code update: Beginning May 1, 2026, PSI specifies that Georgia conditioned air examinations are based only on the 2024 Georgia Mechanical Code and 2024 Georgia Gas Code, including their Georgia amendments.
The current reference list also includes the 2023 National Electrical Code, ACCA Manual J, ACCA Manual D, refrigeration references, HVAC design manuals, and business and safety materials.
Contractor Exam Preps offers the Georgia Conditioned Air Class I Restricted Book Package, which gathers the principal reference materials for examination preparation.
Another option is the Georgia Conditioned Air Class I Highlighted and Tabbed Book Package, designed to make approved reference navigation easier.
For candidates who prefer guided study, the Georgia Conditioned Air Class I Books and Course Rental Package combines reference books with online exam preparation.
Georgia also requires qualifying experience before applicants may obtain the license.
Class I applicants generally must document four years of qualifying conditioned air experience, including residential installation, service, and supervisory responsibilities described in the Board's rules.
This guide covers licensing qualifications, examination details, approved books, HVAC calculations, study schedules, related Contractor Exam Preps products, a Georgia HVAC credential illustration, an embedded 1Exam Prep video, and frequently asked questions.
Important Georgia Conditioned Air Class I 2026 Examination Update: PSI lists 100 scored questions plus 20 unscored pretest questions for the Class I examination. The Class I testing portion allows 3.5 hours, and the minimum passing requirement is a final scaled score of 70. Beginning May 1, 2026, the examination uses the 2024 Georgia Mechanical Code and the 2024 Georgia Gas Code, each with Georgia amendments. The reference list also includes the 2023 NEC, ACCA Manuals J and D, and other approved HVAC materials. Class I licensing is restricted to systems not exceeding 175,000 BTU heating and 60,000 BTU cooling per system. Verify the latest Board and PSI information before scheduling.
A Georgia Conditioned Air Contractor Class I is an HVAC contractor authorized to perform conditioned air contracting work within Georgia's restricted equipment capacity limits.
The classification is commonly described as Class I Restricted.
Conditioned air work includes heating, cooling, ventilation, and related HVAC systems and equipment within the authorized license scope.
Class I focuses on systems that do not exceed 175,000 BTU of heating and 60,000 BTU of cooling.
The cooling limit equals five tons because one ton of cooling is 12,000 BTU per hour.
These limits apply to the individual complete systems considered under Georgia's classification rule. They should not be treated as permission to ignore other applicable installation and contracting requirements.
Many Class I contractors focus on residential comfort systems, including split-system air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, ductwork, thermostats, and associated equipment.
Some smaller light commercial HVAC systems may also fall within the Class I capacity limits.
A Conditioned Air Contractor must understand more than how to replace an air conditioner.
Proper HVAC work begins with selecting a system suited to the building's heating and cooling needs.
An oversized air conditioner can create comfort and humidity problems. An undersized system may struggle to maintain the required temperature.
That is why load calculations and equipment selection are important examination subjects.
Ductwork also affects system performance.
Airflow restrictions, undersized returns, poorly sealed ducts, and incorrect fitting selections can reduce system efficiency and comfort.
The Class I examination tests the contractor's ability to understand design choices, install equipment properly, and identify maintenance and repair problems.
Fuel gas appliances introduce additional requirements related to combustion air, venting, piping, and safety.
Electrical components require an understanding of disconnects, protective devices, wiring, and controls.
Class I candidates should also know basic refrigeration principles, including refrigerant flow, pressure relationships, and the operation of compressors and metering devices.
Georgia's licensing rules require experience and documentation because the contractor is responsible for making decisions that affect comfort, safety, and equipment performance.
Class II is a separate unrestricted conditioned air license classification.
Contractors who want to install larger systems should review the Class II requirements rather than assuming Class I authority automatically extends to every HVAC installation.
Official license: Georgia Conditioned Air Contractor Class I (Restricted).
Board: Georgia Construction Industry Licensing Board, Division of Conditioned Air Contractors.
Cooling limit: 60,000 BTU per hour, equivalent to five tons.
Heating limit: 175,000 BTU.
Required experience: Generally four qualifying years under the Board's rules.
Exam provider: PSI.
Review Georgia's official Conditioned Air Contractor licensing guide before applying.
Georgia requires applicants to satisfy licensing qualifications and obtain Board approval before scheduling the examination.
| Step | Requirement | What to Verify |
|---|---|---|
| Choose License Class | Class I Restricted | Confirm that your intended HVAC work falls within the equipment capacity limits. |
| Understand Scope | 175,000 Heating / 60,000 Cooling | Review Georgia Rule 121-3-.04 and its system-by-system classification language. |
| Document Experience | Four Qualifying Years | Provide the work history and duties required by Georgia. |
| Residential Lead Mechanic | Two Years | Document qualifying residential installation experience. |
| Service Experience | One Year | Document qualified service technician experience. |
| Supervisory Experience | One Year | Document residential supervisory responsibilities. |
| EPA Credential | EPA Certification Evidence | Submit the certification required by the Board. |
| Load and Duct Training | Board-Approved Course | Complete approved heat loss/gain and duct design training. |
| Experience References | Three References | Use qualified architects, engineers, inspectors, or licensed conditioned air contractors. |
| Education Credits | Approved Alternatives | Certain technical education may receive limited experience credit. |
| Create GOALS Account | State Application Portal | Follow Georgia Secretary of State online application instructions. |
| Submit Application | Licensure by Examination | Provide required documents, attestations, background information, and fees. |
| Obtain Board Approval | Exam Authorization | Wait for approval before scheduling with PSI. |
| Review PSI Handbook | Current Exam Details | Confirm questions, duration, permitted references, and test-center rules. |
| Prepare 2026 References | Approved HVAC Books | Check Georgia mechanical/gas codes and amendments, NEC, ACCA manuals, and other references. |
| Practice HVAC Calculations | Manual J and D | Study load calculations, airflow, equipment selection, and duct sizing. |
| Pass PSI Examination | Scaled Score 70 | Meet the official final scaled-score requirement. |
| Complete Licensing | Board Approval | Follow all final instructions before offering licensed conditioned air services. |
The Georgia Division of Conditioned Air Contractors and PSI publish the examination format, licensing framework, content outline, and permitted reference materials.
| Exam Detail | Authority | Published Information |
|---|---|---|
| Official Examination | Georgia | Conditioned Air Contractor Class I (Restricted) |
| State Regulator | Georgia Secretary of State | Professional Licensing Boards Division |
| Board | Georgia | State Construction Industry Licensing Board, Division of Conditioned Air Contractors |
| Testing Provider | PSI | Computer-based examination |
| Scored Questions | PSI | 100 |
| Unscored Pretest Questions | PSI | 20 |
| Total Questions Presented | PSI | 120 |
| Class I Testing Time | PSI | 3.5 hours for Part I |
| Two-Part Program Time | PSI | Seven hours for both Class I and Class II portions |
| Passing Standard | PSI | Final scaled score of at least 70 |
| Exam Format | PSI | Multiple choice |
| Open Book | PSI | Yes, approved references only |
| System Design | Official Outline | 55 scored questions |
| Installation | Official Outline | 25 scored questions |
| Maintain and Repair | Official Outline | 12 scored questions |
| Regulations, Laws and Administration | Official Outline | 8 scored questions |
| Current Mechanical Code | PSI | 2024 Georgia Mechanical Code with amendments |
| Current Fuel Gas Code | PSI | 2024 Georgia Gas Code with amendments |
| Current Electrical Code | PSI | Georgia State Electrical Code based on 2023 NEC |
| Manual J | PSI | 2016, 8th Edition, Version 2.5 |
| Manual D | PSI | 2016, 3rd Edition, Version 2.5 |
| Refrigeration References | PSI | Modern Refrigeration 22nd or Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology 10th |
| Business Reference | PSI | Georgia Contractors Guide, 5th Edition |
| Safety Reference | PSI | OSHA 29 CFR Part 1926 |
| Energy Code | PSI | 2015 IECC with Georgia amendments |
| Heating Capacity Limit | Georgia Rule | 175,000 BTU |
| Cooling Capacity Limit | Georgia Rule | 60,000 BTU, five tons |
| Experience Requirement | Georgia Rule | Four qualifying years for Class I |
| References | Georgia Board | Three qualified professional references |
| Application | Georgia Secretary of State | GOALS licensing portal, Board approval before testing |
Class I examination: 100 scored questions plus 20 unscored questions.
Part I time: Three and a half hours.
Passing: Minimum final scaled score of 70.
Largest topic: System Design, with 55 scored questions.
2026 code requirement: 2024 Georgia Mechanical and Gas Codes with Georgia amendments.
PSI identifies four major content categories totaling 100 scored questions. Each category covers several HVAC responsibilities.
System Design is the largest examination subject, accounting for 55% of the scored questions.
Study heating and cooling load calculations, airflow requirements, duct sizing, equipment selection, registers, and ventilation.
ACCA Manual J is especially important for calculating residential heating and cooling loads.
ACCA Manual D supports duct system planning and sizing.
Equipment selection questions may require candidates to interpret building conditions, system capacity, duct restrictions, airflow requirements, and equipment specifications.
Other System Design topics include combustion air, flue requirements, refrigerant piping, condensate drainage, fuel piping, and electrical supply.
Because this category contains more than half the scored examination, it deserves the largest share of study time.
This subject covers the procedures and code requirements involved in properly installing conditioned air systems.
Study equipment placement, clearances, duct connections, refrigerant lines, gas piping, condensate drains, controls, and startup procedures.
Installation questions may require choosing the appropriate method or identifying whether a particular installation meets code requirements.
Good installation practices also affect airflow, noise, energy efficiency, safety, and long-term equipment performance.
Maintenance and repair topics include refrigeration system operation, component testing, equipment diagnostics, and corrective service procedures.
Review compressors, refrigerant charging, electrical controls, thermostats, motors, ignition systems, and airflow problems.
Understand the difference between identifying a symptom and finding the cause of the problem.
For example, low airflow may relate to dirty filters, incorrect duct sizing, blocked returns, or equipment problems rather than a single failed component.
This category covers the legal and business responsibilities of conditioned air contractors.
Study permits, inspections, OSHA, Georgia licensing law, insurance, contracts, taxes, bookkeeping, purchasing, and scheduling.
Contractors should understand the importance of maintaining proper records and complying with licensing requirements.
Although this category is smaller than System Design, it remains part of the official examination.
System Design: 55 questions.
Installation: 25 questions.
Maintain and Repair: 12 questions.
Regulations and Administration: 8 questions.
Scored total: 100 questions.
Unscored pretest: 20 additional questions.
Begin with the official PSI Candidate Information Handbook and the current conditioned air reference list.
Then build your study schedule around the four official examination categories.
Because System Design accounts for 55 questions, it should receive the most attention.
Start with heating and cooling load calculations using ACCA Manual J.
Next, study duct sizing, airflow, friction rate, and layout concepts with ACCA Manual D.
Manual J: Heating and cooling loads, building conditions, sensible and latent heat.
Manual D: Duct sizing, airflow, friction rate, registers, and duct layout.
Georgia Mechanical Code: Equipment installation, ventilation, ducts, and mechanical requirements.
Georgia Gas Code: Fuel piping, venting, combustion air, and gas appliances.
NEC: HVAC electrical supply, wiring, disconnects, grounding, and protection.
Refrigeration: Compressors, refrigerant circuits, system charging, troubleshooting, and service.
OSHA: Jobsite safety, tools, ladders, and hazard recognition.
Business: Contracts, permits, scheduling, bookkeeping, insurance, and regulatory responsibilities.
Practice selecting the correct reference before opening the book.
For example, a residential heat gain question likely points to Manual J.
A duct sizing question may require Manual D or a duct calculation tool.
A gas venting problem may require the Georgia Gas Code.
An electrical disconnect question may require the NEC.
Learning which reference addresses each subject can reduce wasted search time.
The Georgia Conditioned Air Class I Pre-Printed Tabs can help organize the approved books for study and code lookup practice.
For candidates who prefer a prepared reference collection, the Georgia Class I Highlighted and Tabbed Book Package provides an organized option.
Complete timed questions, review missed answers, and repeat calculations until you understand each step.
During practice, use only materials that match your official examination reference list and date.
Conditioned Air Class I candidates should understand how equipment sizing, airflow, ducts, refrigerant piping, and electrical controls work together.
Educational HVAC system diagram. Actual installations must follow approved equipment instructions and applicable codes.
Use these eight steps to organize your experience, application, reference books, and PSI examination preparation.
Confirm the equipment capacity limits and determine whether Class I matches your intended HVAC business.
Organize lead mechanic, service technician, and supervisory records according to Georgia's licensing rule.
Gather EPA certification, approved load and duct training, and three qualified professional references.
Submit the appropriate licensure-by-examination application and supporting documents.
Wait for the Board to authorize your examination before scheduling with PSI.
Prioritize System Design, followed by Installation, Maintenance and Repair, and Regulations.
Complete the required questions within the allotted period and earn a minimum final scaled score of 70.
Follow the Board's remaining instructions, pay any required fees, and wait for license issuance before representing yourself as licensed.
The PSI examination outline assigns 100 scored questions to four content categories. The percentages below are exact because the four category counts total 100.
Total scored questions: 100.
Additional unscored questions: 20.
Largest category: System Design, 55%.
System Design and Installation combined: 80% of the scored blueprint.
Passing standard: Final scaled score of at least 70.
Study strategy: Spend extra time on design while reviewing every examination category.
Georgia's PSI reference list identifies the materials candidates may use during the open-book Conditioned Air Contractor examination.
For testing in October 2026, the Georgia Mechanical and Gas Code references must reflect the 2024 editions with Georgia amendments.
| Reference Book or Tool | 2026 Edition | Primary Use |
|---|---|---|
| Georgia Mechanical Code | 2024 International Mechanical Code with Georgia amendments | Mechanical equipment, ventilation, duct systems, installation requirements, and HVAC code compliance. |
| Georgia Gas Code | 2024 International Fuel Gas Code with Georgia amendments | Fuel gas piping, venting, combustion air, gas appliance installation, and safety. |
| Georgia State Electrical Code | 2023 National Electrical Code or NEC Handbook | HVAC electrical systems, disconnecting means, conductors, protection, and controls. |
| ACCA Manual D | 2016, 3rd Edition, Version 2.5 | Residential duct design, system layout, airflow, sizing, and friction considerations. |
| ACCA Manual J | 2016, 8th Edition, Version 2.5 | Residential heating and cooling load calculations. |
| Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning | 2025, 22nd Edition | Refrigeration principles, equipment components, installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. |
| Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology | 2025, 10th Edition, approved alternative | Alternative to Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning under the official list. |
| Contractors Guide to Business, Law and Project Management | Georgia Construction Industry Licensing Board, 5th Edition | Business administration, contracts, licensing, insurance, and project management. |
| OSHA Construction Standards | 29 CFR Part 1926, latest available edition | Construction safety and workplace regulations. |
| Carrier System Design Manuals | Volumes 1 through 3 | HVAC system design and equipment performance concepts. |
| Flexible Duct Performance and Installation Standards | 2010, 5th Edition | Flexible duct system installation and performance requirements. |
| Trane Ductulator | Current | Duct sizing and airflow-related calculations. |
| Flexible Duct Slide Rule or Calculator | ACCA or equivalent listed option | Flexible duct design and calculation tasks. |
| International Energy Conservation Code | 2015 with Georgia amendments | Energy efficiency and relevant HVAC design requirements. |
Mechanical code: 2024 Georgia Mechanical Code with amendments.
Gas code: 2024 Georgia Gas Code with amendments.
Code change effective: May 1, 2026.
Electrical code: 2023 NEC.
Load calculation: ACCA Manual J.
Duct design: ACCA Manual D.
Refrigeration options: Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning or Refrigeration and Air Conditioning Technology, using the approved editions.
Important: Product listings may name the base International Codes without separately listing Georgia amendments. Confirm that your exam-room references satisfy the current PSI list.
Georgia permits candidates to use approved reference books during the conditioned air examination, but there are strict rules regarding notes, tabs, and unauthorized materials.
According to the official PSI reference list, candidates may use the listed references and may prepare them with appropriate permanent tabs, highlighting, and underlining.
Class I exam period: 3.5 hours.
Total questions presented: 120, including 20 unscored pretest questions.
Average time: Approximately 1.75 minutes per presented question.
Calculator: PSI permits silent, nonprogrammable calculators without alphabetic keys or printing capability.
Most important reminder: Bring only the currently approved references and allowed materials.
A Georgia Conditioned Air Contractor Class I license authorizes conditioned air contracting work involving systems and equipment within the state's restricted capacity limits.
These limits are 175,000 BTU of heating and 60,000 BTU of cooling.
The license supports work involving qualifying heating, air conditioning, ventilation, duct, control, and related conditioned air systems.
Typical projects may include residential split-system air conditioners, heat pumps, furnaces, ductwork, and air handlers.
Some smaller commercial conditioned air installations may also fall within the permitted limits.
Class I contractors must understand system installation, service, maintenance, and applicable code requirements.
For example, replacing an existing air conditioner is not simply a matter of selecting equipment with the same nominal capacity.
The contractor should evaluate building load requirements, airflow, duct condition, equipment compatibility, and installation conditions.
ACCA Manual J provides a method for calculating residential heating and cooling loads.
Manual D supports the design and sizing of residential duct systems.
A new high-efficiency system may not perform correctly when connected to ductwork that restricts airflow.
Similarly, poor refrigerant piping practices can cause performance problems and equipment damage.
Gas furnaces require attention to venting, combustion air, piping, and safety requirements.
Electrical work connected with HVAC equipment must comply with applicable electrical codes and licensing requirements.
Contractors also need to understand permit and inspection requirements for their jobs.
Georgia's Class II license is unrestricted with respect to the conditioned air system capacity limits imposed on Class I.
A contractor planning to work with larger commercial systems should investigate Class II licensing rather than relying on a restricted Class I credential.
Class I: Restricted conditioned air contracting.
Cooling: Systems up to 60,000 BTU per hour.
Heating: Systems up to 175,000 BTU.
Class II: Unrestricted conditioned air classification.
Code compliance: Required for installations and service work.
| Classification | License Type | Purpose or Requirement |
|---|---|---|
| HVAC Apprentice or Helper | Training Position | Learns installation, service, and maintenance under appropriate employment and supervision. |
| HVAC Service Technician | Trade Experience | Performs HVAC service responsibilities within applicable rules and employer authorization. |
| Georgia Conditioned Air Class I | Restricted Contractor | Systems not exceeding 175,000 BTU heating or 60,000 BTU cooling. |
| Georgia Conditioned Air Class II | Unrestricted Contractor | Not subject to Class I system capacity limits. |
| Class I Qualifying Experience | Application | Four years, with specified installation, service, and supervisory experience. |
| Class II Qualifying Experience | Application | Five years, including qualifying commercial and larger-system work. |
| Class I Examination | PSI | 100 scored questions plus 20 pretest; 3.5-hour Class I portion; scaled 70 passing. |
| Class II Examination Program | PSI | Two-part testing format with a total of seven hours for both portions. |
| Refrigerant Handling | EPA Certification | Federal refrigerant technician certification requirements apply separately. |
| Electrical Contracting | Separate Trade License | HVAC licensing does not automatically grant unrestricted electrical contracting authority. |
| Plumbing Contracting | Separate Trade License | Work outside conditioned air contracting may require a different state or local authorization. |
Class I: Restricted by system capacity.
Class II: Unrestricted with respect to conditioned air capacity limits.
Experience: Four years for Class I and five years for Class II under Georgia rules.
Examination: Confirm the correct PSI testing portion for your approved classification.
Four Qualifying Years
EPA and HVAC Design Education
Georgia Secretary of State
Experience rule: Georgia Rule 121-3-.04.
Technical diploma: May provide up to two years of approved experience credit.
Vocational-technical certificate: May provide up to one year of approved experience credit.
Experience credit: Subject to Board evaluation and approval.
Professional references: Three qualified references are required.
Use this schedule to cover the four PSI examination categories, current Georgia codes, and the major HVAC reference books.
The Georgia Conditioned Air Class I examination can be challenging because it requires knowledge of several HVAC systems, design methods, code books, and contractor responsibilities.
Candidates must work through 100 scored questions and 20 additional unscored pretest questions.
The Class I testing period is three and a half hours.
That creates a need for accurate answers and efficient reference navigation.
System Design is usually the largest preparation challenge because it represents 55% of the official scored blueprint.
Some candidates are comfortable replacing equipment or performing service calls but have less practice with written load calculations and duct design problems.
For example, Manual J requires attention to building conditions, temperature differences, insulation, windows, and other factors affecting heating and cooling loads.
Manual D requires understanding of airflow, duct layout, friction losses, and the performance of fittings and registers.
Equipment selection questions may require considering several variables rather than choosing the unit with the largest advertised capacity.
Installation questions also require careful reading.
A problem may involve refrigerant piping, condensate disposal, gas venting, equipment clearances, or electrical controls.
Finding the correct code requirement can be difficult if the candidate does not know where the information is located.
The Georgia Mechanical and Gas Code transition is another important concern.
For the October 2026 examination, PSI specifies the 2024 Georgia Mechanical Code and 2024 Georgia Gas Code with Georgia amendments.
Candidates using older editions should confirm the correct examination references before testing.
The examination is open book, but searching several large references can consume valuable time.
Permanent tabs and consistent study organization can help reduce unnecessary page turning.
Maintenance and repair questions test practical knowledge of refrigeration systems, airflow, electrical controls, and diagnostic methods.
Business and regulations questions require understanding licensing responsibilities, permits, insurance, safety, and administrative procedures.
The passing requirement is a final scaled score of at least 70.
Because scaled scoring is used, candidates should not assume that answering exactly 70% of the questions correctly always produces the required result.
Instead, aim for consistently strong results on timed practice examinations.
Review mistakes and confirm the correct answer using the appropriate approved reference.
That approach helps build confidence and practical exam readiness.
Official exam: Georgia Conditioned Air Contractor Class I (Restricted).
Provider: PSI.
Questions: 100 scored plus 20 unscored.
Time: 3.5-hour Class I portion.
Passing: Minimum final scaled score of 70.
Books: Only the approved current reference list.
Contractor Exam Preps offers Georgia Conditioned Air Class I study packages with HVAC codebooks, design references, highlighted and tabbed materials, rental options, and online preparation resources.
These resources can help candidates study System Design, Installation, Maintenance and Repair, and Regulations.
Professionally Prepared Exam References
HVAC Code and Design Reference Library
Rental Books and Online Exam Preparation
Pre-printed tabs: Georgia Class I Reference Book Tabs.
Ultimate rental package: Georgia Conditioned Air Class I Ultimate Exam Prep Rental.
All-inclusive preparation: Georgia Class I Licensing and Business Setup Package.
Additional HVAC licensing: Georgia Conditioned Air Class II Book Package.
Georgia collection: Browse Class I Products.
Reference edition caution: Check that the Georgia mechanical and gas amendments are included or separately obtained where required by PSI.
Before purchasing: Verify current product contents, availability, rental requirements, and official 2026 reference editions.
Georgia Conditioned Air Class I exam book package image from ContractorExamPreps.com.
This educational Georgia HVAC credential illustration features the Georgia state outline, air conditioning equipment, an HVAC fan, heating and cooling symbols, and residential mechanical equipment.
It represents Conditioned Air Contractor Class I examination preparation and training.
It is not an official Georgia contractor license, state-issued certificate, or evidence that an applicant has passed the examination.
The Contractor Exam Preps product image links directly to the Georgia Class I reference book package.
• Georgia Construction Industry Licensing Board
• Division of Conditioned Air Contractors
• Class I Restricted License
• PSI Computer-Based Examination
• 100 Scored Questions
• 20 Unscored Pretest Questions
• Three-and-a-Half-Hour Class I Testing Period
• Minimum Scaled Score of 70
• Open-Book Examination
• 2024 Georgia Mechanical Code
• 2024 Georgia Gas Code
• Georgia Code Amendments
• 2023 National Electrical Code
• ACCA Manual J Load Calculations
• ACCA Manual D Duct Design
• Heating and Cooling Capacity
• Residential HVAC Systems
• Refrigeration Fundamentals
• Airflow and Ventilation
• Duct Sizing and Design
• Equipment Selection
• Gas Piping and Combustion Air
• Condensate Disposal
• Electrical Controls
• HVAC Installation
• Maintenance and Repair
• OSHA Safety Standards
• Georgia Contractor Business Law
• Four Years of Qualifying Experience
• EPA Certification Evidence
• Georgia GOALS Application
Prepare with mechanical and gas code study, Manual J and D calculations, refrigeration knowledge, and timed open-book practice.
Georgia Conditioned Air Class I Licensing
Class I is Georgia's restricted conditioned air contractor license for systems and equipment within the state's specified heating and cooling capacity limits.
The Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board, Division of Conditioned Air Contractors, regulates this license through the Georgia Secretary of State's Professional Licensing Boards Division.
The cooling limit is 60,000 BTU per hour, equivalent to five tons of cooling capacity.
The heating limit is 175,000 BTU.
No. Class I is restricted by equipment capacity. Georgia Class II is the unrestricted conditioned air contractor classification.
Georgia generally requires four years of qualifying conditioned air experience, with specific installation, service, and supervisory components.
The Class I experience rule includes two years of residential installation work as a lead mechanic.
Georgia's Class I licensing requirements include evidence of EPA certification.
Georgia requires completion of a Board-approved heat loss and gain and duct design course.
Three qualified professional references must be submitted using the state's required process.
PSI Examination Format
PSI administers the computer-based conditioned air contractor licensing examination.
There are 100 scored questions in the Class I examination blueprint.
PSI includes 20 unscored pretest questions, making 120 questions presented during the session.
The Class I testing portion allows three and a half hours. Georgia also describes a seven-hour program for completing both Class I and Class II examination parts.
The minimum passing final scaled score is 70. This is a scaled-score requirement, not necessarily an exact percentage of questions answered correctly.
Yes. Only the approved references listed by PSI may be used in the examination room.
Yes. Applicants must obtain approval from the Georgia Board before scheduling their PSI examination.
Official Examination Topics
System Design is the largest subject, with 55 of the 100 scored questions.
Installation accounts for 25 scored questions.
Maintain and Repair System accounts for 12 scored questions.
Regulations, Laws and Administrative Functions account for eight scored questions.
Yes. Heating and cooling load calculations are important System Design topics. ACCA Manual J is a major study reference.
Yes. Candidates should study airflow, duct sizing, duct routing, fittings, friction considerations, and ACCA Manual D.
Yes. Maintenance and Repair covers HVAC equipment diagnostics, refrigeration systems, controls, and related procedures.
2026 Code Editions and Reference Rules
The 2024 Georgia Mechanical Code, based on the 2024 International Mechanical Code, with Georgia amendments.
The 2024 Georgia Gas Code, based on the 2024 International Fuel Gas Code, with Georgia amendments.
PSI specifies May 1, 2026 as the date when the conditioned air examinations began using only the 2024 Georgia Mechanical and Gas Codes.
The official 2026 reference list identifies the Georgia State Electrical Code based on the 2023 National Electrical Code or the corresponding NEC Handbook.
ACCA Manual J, 2016, 8th Edition, Version 2.5.
ACCA Manual D, 2016, 3rd Edition, Version 2.5.
Yes. PSI permits permanent reference tabs, highlighting, and underlining in approved books.
No. The PSI reference notice prohibits handwritten notes and unauthorized photocopied materials, even when inserted into an approved book.
Georgia Class I and Class II Differences
Class I is restricted by heating and cooling capacity. Class II is unrestricted and has additional experience and examination requirements.
Georgia generally requires five years of qualifying experience for Class II, including specified commercial and supervisory experience.
Class I contractors must remain within their statutory capacity limits. Larger conditioned air systems may require Class II authority.
Contractor Exam Preps Study Materials
Yes. Contractor Exam Preps offers a Georgia Conditioned Air Class I Restricted complete book package.
Yes. The store lists a professionally highlighted and tabbed Georgia Conditioned Air Class I reference book package.
Yes. Contractor Exam Preps offers a books and course rental package. Review the selected product's current rental term and deposit conditions.
Yes. The store lists an Ultimate Exam Prep Rental Package with prepared books, online study resources, and application assistance.
Yes. Georgia Conditioned Air Class I pre-printed reference tabs are available as a separate product.
No. Study materials can support preparation, but they do not guarantee exam passage or state license approval.
Watch this related 1Exam Prep video about the Georgia Conditioned Air Contractor Class I examination. It introduces HVAC licensing preparation, system design, code navigation, load concepts, duct sizing, and the importance of organizing reference books for a timed, open-book exam.
This video is also featured on a Georgia Conditioned Air Class I study article published by 1Exam Prep.
Video topic: Breaking Down the Georgia Conditioned Air Class I Contractor License Exam.
Source: 1Exam Prep Georgia Class I examination overview.
Related subjects: HVAC load calculations, duct design, mechanical codes, electrical controls, and exam preparation.
Official Class I exam: 100 scored questions, 20 unscored questions, 3.5-hour Class I testing portion.
2026 reference reminder: Use the current Georgia Mechanical and Gas Codes with required amendments.
Use these Contractor Exam Preps products and Georgia licensing resources to organize your Class I HVAC examination preparation.
Georgia license: Conditioned Air Contractor Class I Restricted.
PSI examination: 100 scored questions and 20 additional unscored questions.
Class I examination time: 3.5 hours.
Passing requirement: Minimum final scaled score of 70.
Official content areas: Four.
Largest subject: System Design, 55 questions.
2026 code references: 2024 Georgia Mechanical and Gas Codes with amendments, plus 2023 NEC and other approved references.
License limits: 175,000 BTU heating and 60,000 BTU cooling.
Experience: Four qualifying years.
Prepare for the Georgia Conditioned Air Contractor Class I examination with a focused study plan covering HVAC system design, residential load calculations, duct sizing, equipment installation, refrigeration fundamentals, maintenance, safety, and Georgia licensing requirements.
The official Class I license is a restricted conditioned air contractor credential regulated by the Georgia State Construction Industry Licensing Board.
The license applies to conditioned air systems and equipment within the state's capacity limits.
Those limits are 175,000 BTU of heating and 60,000 BTU of cooling.
The cooling limit equals five tons, making Class I an important path for contractors working with residential HVAC systems and qualifying smaller installations.
Contractors planning to work on larger systems should review the separate Class II Unrestricted license classification.
The Georgia Conditioned Air Class I examination is administered by PSI as a computer-based, open-book examination.
The official blueprint contains 100 scored questions, with 20 additional unscored pretest questions included in the testing session.
The Class I portion allows three and a half hours.
Candidates must earn a minimum final scaled score of 70.
Scaled scoring is important because the required result is not necessarily the same as answering exactly 70% of the scored questions correctly.
The examination is organized into four content categories.
System Design contains 55 scored questions and represents the largest study priority.
Installation contains 25 questions, Maintain and Repair System contains 12, and Regulations, Laws and Administrative Functions contains eight.
System Design and Installation together account for 80% of the scored examination blueprint.
This makes heating and cooling load calculations, duct design, airflow, equipment selection, and correct installation methods especially important.
ACCA Manual J helps candidates understand residential heating and cooling loads.
ACCA Manual D supports duct sizing, airflow calculations, system layout, and fitting considerations.
The Georgia Mechanical and Gas Codes cover equipment installations, ventilation, combustion air, gas piping, venting, and related safety requirements.
The current 2026 reference requirements deserve careful attention.
Beginning May 1, 2026, PSI specifies that the conditioned air examinations use only the 2024 Georgia Mechanical Code and the 2024 Georgia Gas Code, including Georgia amendments.
The approved electrical reference is based on the 2023 National Electrical Code.
Other references include Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning or an approved alternative, Georgia's Contractors Guide to Business, Law and Project Management, OSHA construction standards, Carrier system design manuals, flexible duct standards, a ductulator, and the 2015 International Energy Conservation Code with Georgia amendments.
Contractor Exam Preps offers several study options to help candidates organize these references.
The Georgia Conditioned Air Class I Book Package includes the primary HVAC reference materials used for preparation.
The Georgia Class I Highlighted and Tabbed Book Package provides prepared books for more efficient reference navigation.
The Georgia Class I Books and Course Rental Package combines rental books with online exam preparation.
Candidates can also review the Ultimate Exam Prep Rental Package for additional course and application support.
Before purchasing any preparation package, verify that the included editions and Georgia amendments match the current PSI examination reference list.
Beyond examination preparation, Georgia requires documented licensing qualifications.
Class I applicants generally need four years of qualifying conditioned air experience, including residential lead mechanic work, service technician experience, and residential supervisory responsibilities.
The licensing rules also require evidence of EPA certification, Board-approved heat loss and gain and duct design training, and three qualified professional references.
Applicants must obtain Board approval before scheduling the PSI examination.
After passing, candidates must complete the remaining licensing requirements before representing themselves as Georgia Conditioned Air Contractors.
A useful preparation routine includes short study sessions, repeated HVAC calculations, reference-book navigation drills, and timed practice examinations.
Work through the official content outline, focus extra attention on System Design, and review every missed practice question until the correct reasoning is clear.
Successful exam preparation brings together field experience, building science, load and duct calculations, mechanical code knowledge, safe installation practices, and consistent practice.
With the correct references and a well-organized study plan, Georgia Class I candidates can approach their examination with stronger knowledge and greater confidence.
Find additional HVAC and contractor licensing study materials at ContractorExamPreps.com.
