PSI HVACR Trade • Business and Law • 50 Questions Each • 130 Minutes Each • 70% Passing • 2021 IMC • 2021 IFGC • ACCA Manual J
Preparing for the New Jersey Master HVACR Contractor exam? This guide explains the official PSI examination structure, licensing steps, technical topics, approved reference books, and related HVACR study resources available from Contractor Exam Preps.
HVACR stands for heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration.
That is quite a collection of systems! HVACR contractors help buildings stay warm in winter, cool in summer, and properly ventilated throughout the year.
They also work with refrigeration equipment, piping systems, mechanical controls, electrical components, and fuel-gas appliances.
When everything works correctly, customers rarely notice the equipment.
When the air conditioner quits on the hottest day of July, suddenly everyone becomes very interested in HVACR!
New Jersey requires qualified individuals to obtain the appropriate Master HVACR Contractor license before performing regulated contracting work unless a statutory exemption applies.
The state licensing process includes qualifying experience or education and two examinations.
Those examinations are administered by PSI.
The New Jersey State Board of Examiners of Heating, Ventilating, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Contractors oversees the Master HVACR Contractor license.
The Board operates through the New Jersey Division of Consumer Affairs.
It reviews candidate applications and determines eligibility for testing.
PSI Services administers the exams after the Board authorizes the applicant.
Candidates should begin with the official New Jersey HVACR application instructions.
New Jersey requires two PSI examinations for the Master HVACR Contractor license:
Both examinations are open book.
Both have 50 questions and a 130-minute time limit.
Both require a score of at least 70%.
That means a candidate must answer at least 35 questions correctly on each test.
First-time examination candidates must take both tests on the same day.
The combined examination content covers technical HVACR knowledge and the business rules involved in running a contracting company.
The official PSI HVACR Trade examination contains 50 questions.
Candidates are allowed 130 minutes, equal to two hours and ten minutes.
The required passing score is 70%.
That equals 35 correct answers out of 50.
The exam covers eight technical subject categories.
The categories range from refrigeration theory to fuel-gas piping and electrical controls.
A successful candidate should understand the basic operation of HVACR equipment and how to apply code requirements to practical installation situations.
Yes. The HVACR Trade examination is open book.
However, PSI only permits specific references in the examination center.
The currently authorized trade references are:
A handheld ductulator is also permitted.
Other technical publications, including Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, HVAC Duct Construction Standards, and Ugly's Electrical References, are useful study materials but are not approved for the trade testing room.
Those books should stay at home on exam day.
The current official PSI Candidate Information Bulletin was updated on September 3, 2026.
New Jersey now accepts the 2021 International Mechanical Code and 2021 International Fuel Gas Code for this trade examination.
Older 2018 editions are no longer accepted.
The approved residential load-calculation book is ACCA Manual J, reprinted 2016.
The bulletin explains which publications can be used during the examination and which are for preparation only.
Checking the exact edition is important because even a helpful book can be rejected if it is not on the approved list.
Heating and Cooling Principles, Theory, and Equipment is one of the largest examination subjects, containing eight questions.
Study heat transfer, temperature, pressure, heating equipment, cooling equipment, and system performance.
Understand how furnaces, boilers, air conditioners, and heat pumps operate.
Review sensible heat and latent heat.
Learn why equipment must be selected according to the building's heating and cooling requirements.
Refrigerants and Refrigeration also contributes eight questions.
Study the refrigeration cycle and its main components.
These include compressors, condensers, metering devices, and evaporators.
Review refrigerant pressure, temperature, superheat, subcooling, and system troubleshooting.
Learn how refrigeration systems transfer heat.
Refrigerant handling may require federal EPA Section 608 certification, which is separate from New Jersey contractor licensing.
This subject accounts for seven questions.
HVACR equipment uses motors, switches, relays, contactors, capacitors, transformers, and thermostats.
Study basic voltage, current, resistance, and power calculations.
Practice reading simple wiring diagrams.
Review control circuits and protective devices.
Electrical knowledge is essential because a failed control device can stop an entire HVACR system.
Piping contributes seven questions.
Study refrigerant piping, hydronic piping, steam piping, valves, fittings, supports, and insulation.
Understand how piping size and installation conditions influence system performance.
Review pressure, temperature, and material compatibility.
Practice finding piping requirements in the applicable mechanical code.
Fuel and LP Gas contains five questions.
Study natural gas and liquefied petroleum gas systems.
Review regulators, shutoff valves, gas piping, connectors, and appliance installation.
Learn how to use fuel-gas piping sizing tables.
The 2021 International Fuel Gas Code is a primary approved reference.
This category contains five questions.
Fuel-burning appliances require suitable combustion air and venting arrangements.
Study combustion-air openings, chimneys, vent connectors, flues, and vent termination requirements.
Learn why proper venting is critical for safe equipment operation.
Review the relevant IFGC tables and procedures.
Ducts, Ventilation, and Exhaust contains five questions.
Review supply ducts, return ducts, exhaust systems, ventilation air, duct sizing, and airflow.
Study static pressure and air distribution.
Learn how ventilation needs may change according to building use.
Use the 2021 International Mechanical Code to practice finding ventilation and exhaust requirements.
Load Calculations accounts for five questions.
ACCA Manual J provides procedures for determining residential heating and cooling loads.
Study building orientation, insulation, windows, infiltration, indoor conditions, and outdoor design conditions.
Understand how heat gain and heat loss affect equipment sizing.
Practice using the Manual J reference and its tables.
Business and Law is the second required PSI examination.
It contains 50 questions, allows 130 minutes, and requires a 70% passing score.
The official topics include business organization, licensing, estimating, contracts, project management, risk, safety, labor law, finance, taxes, and lien law.
The largest subject is Contract Management with eight questions.
Estimating and Bidding follows with seven questions.
Contractors need to understand these subjects because running a business requires more than knowing how to repair equipment.
The official PSI reference is the NASCLA Contractors' Guide to Business, Law and Project Management, Basic 11th Edition.
The examination also allows the specified New Jersey Uniform Enforcement Act and Construction Lien Law statutory provisions.
Students should carefully check the title.
Contractor Exam Preps sells the New Jersey NASCLA Contractor's Guide, Second Edition.
That is a different publication from the NASCLA Basic 11th Edition listed for the HVACR exam.
The New Jersey book may support general contractor business learning, but candidates should obtain the exact PSI-authorized Business and Law reference for testing.
New Jersey has several qualifying education and experience routes.
One path is completing a four-year approved HVACR apprenticeship followed by one year of journeyperson experience under a licensed Master HVACR Contractor.
A four-year bachelor's degree in HVACR followed by one year of qualifying journeyperson experience is another route.
A related bachelor's degree with three years of qualifying journeyperson experience may also qualify.
Additional approved trade-school and apprenticeship combinations are described in the Board rules.
The Board evaluates the documents submitted with the application.
The Board's published application fee is $100.
PSI lists the HVACR Trade examination fee as $84.
The Business and Law examination fee is $47.
The combined PSI examination fees are $131.
These amounts do not include books or the separate state license fee.
The Board's published renewal fee is $160.
PSI states that candidates may retest without a fixed lifetime limit.
However, a six-month waiting period applies between attempts.
That makes it especially important to prepare carefully before the first examination.
Spending time learning fuel-gas sizing tables now is much better than waiting another six months to try again!
New Jersey Master HVACR Contractors generally renew on a biennial schedule.
The Board requires five approved continuing education credits per biennial period, subject to applicable rules and exemptions.
Licensees should maintain their continuing education records for four years.
Continuing education helps contractors remain familiar with safety rules, mechanical practices, and state regulations.
Contractor Exam Preps sells a 2021 International Mechanical Code and International Fuel Gas Code book package.
Both codebooks match the editions listed for New Jersey's HVACR Trade examination.
The store sells this set for ICC Mechanical Plans Examiner M3 preparation, so it should not be confused with a dedicated New Jersey HVACR course.
The store also offers a related HVACR books and courses rental package containing the 2021 IMC, 2021 IFGC, Manual J reprinted 2016, and additional refrigeration, ductwork, and electrical study references.
That rental package is designed for Louisiana testing. It contains all three authorized New Jersey trade-reference titles, but other included books are study-only for New Jersey.
Students should review the product contents and rental terms before purchasing.
Begin with the official PSI examination outline.
Study each of the eight HVACR technical categories.
Give extra attention to heating, cooling, and refrigeration because they have the highest question counts.
Practice locating mechanical-code and fuel-gas requirements.
Complete Manual J exercises.
Review electrical controls, motors, and wiring diagrams.
Prepare separately for the Business and Law examination.
Finally, complete 50-question practice examinations using a 130-minute time limit.
Good study habits, correct books, and repeated practice can make the examination much more manageable.
Important 2026 New Jersey HVACR Update: The official PSI bulletin dated September 3, 2026 requires both HVACR Trade and Business and Law examinations. Each contains 50 questions, allows 130 minutes, and requires 70% to pass. First-time candidates take both on the same day. The currently permitted trade references include the 2021 International Mechanical Code, 2021 International Fuel Gas Code, and ACCA Manual J reprinted 2016. Older 2018 mechanical and fuel-gas codes are no longer accepted. Refrigeration, duct construction, and general electrical textbooks are for studying only, not for use in the trade testing room. The Business and Law exam lists NASCLA Basic 11th Edition and specified New Jersey statutes. Check the official PSI bulletin before purchasing reference books.
A Master HVACR Contractor is a professional licensed by New Jersey to perform qualifying HVACR contracting activities within the scope established by state law.
These activities may include planning, laying out, installing, servicing, maintaining, repairing, testing, commissioning, and modifying HVACR equipment and systems.
Contractors work with heating, cooling, ventilation, refrigeration, and related mechanical equipment.
Business operations may also require a bona fide representative and other state compliance measures.
Official credential: New Jersey Master HVACR Contractor.
Board: State Board of Examiners of HVACR Contractors.
Testing provider: PSI Services.
Required examinations: HVACR Trade and Business and Law.
Exam format: Two separate open-book examinations.
Passing requirement: 70% on each.
| Requirement | New Jersey Information | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| State | New Jersey | Follow statewide requirements. |
| License | Master HVACR Contractor | Review scope and eligibility. |
| Licensing Board | State HVACR Board | Apply through Division of Consumer Affairs. |
| Testing Provider | PSI | Schedule after Board authorization. |
| PSI Bulletin | September 3, 2026 | Check current copy. |
| Required Exam 1 | HVACR Trade | Study eight technical areas. |
| Required Exam 2 | Business and Law | Study contractor operations. |
| Trade Questions | 50 | Practice 50-question exams. |
| Trade Duration | 130 Minutes | Practice timed testing. |
| Trade Passing | 70% | 35 correct answers. |
| Business Questions | 50 | Practice contracts and licensing. |
| Business Duration | 130 Minutes | Second timed exam. |
| Business Passing | 70% | 35 correct answers. |
| First Attempt | Both Exams Same Day | Prepare for both before scheduling. |
| Trade Fee | $84 | PSI testing fee. |
| Business Fee | $47 | PSI testing fee. |
| Combined PSI Fees | $131 | Separate from state fees. |
| Board Application | $100 | State application payment. |
| License Renewal Fee | $160 | Check current Board schedule. |
| Trade Open Book | Yes | Use approved references only. |
| Business Open Book | Yes | Use approved business references. |
| IMC | 2021 | Approved trade reference. |
| IFGC | 2021 | Approved trade reference. |
| Manual J | 2016 Reprint | Approved trade reference. |
| 2018 IMC/IFGC | Not Accepted | Use 2021 editions. |
| Ductulator | Allowed | Handheld device. |
| Modern Refrigeration | Study Only | Not approved in testing room. |
| SMACNA Duct Standards | Study Only | Not approved in testing room. |
| Ugly's Electrical | Study Only | Not approved in testing room. |
| Business Book | NASCLA Basic 11th | Obtain exact edition. |
| Business Statutes | Specified NJ Titles 45 and 2A | Prepare approved statutory references. |
| Retest Wait | Six Months | Follow PSI retake rules. |
| Continuing Education | Five Credits Per Biennial Period | Take Board-approved courses. |
| Detail | Category | Official Information |
|---|---|---|
| Credential | License | Master HVACR Contractor |
| Board | Licensing | New Jersey HVACR Board |
| Exam Provider | Testing | PSI |
| Trade Questions | Testing | 50 |
| Trade Time | Testing | 130 Minutes |
| Trade Passing | Scoring | 70%, 35 Correct |
| Business Questions | Testing | 50 |
| Business Time | Testing | 130 Minutes |
| Business Passing | Scoring | 70%, 35 Correct |
| Trade Format | References | Open Book |
| Business Format | References | Open Book |
| Mechanical Code | References | 2021 IMC |
| Fuel Gas Code | References | 2021 IFGC |
| Manual J | References | Reprinted 2016 |
| Electrical Controls | Trade Outline | 7 Questions |
| Piping | Trade Outline | 7 Questions |
| Heating and Cooling | Trade Outline | 8 Questions |
| Refrigeration | Trade Outline | 8 Questions |
| Fuel Gas | Trade Outline | 5 Questions |
| Combustion Air and Vents | Trade Outline | 5 Questions |
| Ducts and Ventilation | Trade Outline | 5 Questions |
| Load Calculations | Trade Outline | 5 Questions |
| Business Organization | Business Outline | 2 Questions |
| Licensing | Business Outline | 5 Questions |
| Estimating and Bidding | Business Outline | 7 Questions |
| Contract Management | Business Outline | 8 Questions |
| Project Management | Business Outline | 5 Questions |
| Risk Management | Business Outline | 4 Questions |
| Safety | Business Outline | 4 Questions |
| Labor Law | Business Outline | 4 Questions |
| Financial Management | Business Outline | 5 Questions |
| Tax Law | Business Outline | 3 Questions |
| Lien Law | Business Outline | 3 Questions |
Two examinations: HVACR Trade and Business and Law.
Combined questions: 100.
Total testing time: 260 minutes across the two examinations.
Passing requirement: 35 correct on each.
Study electrical theory, motor operation, capacitors, transformers, thermostats, protective controls, wiring diagrams, and troubleshooting principles.
Review piping materials, fittings, valves, refrigerant piping, steam systems, hydronic piping, insulation, and pipe supports.
Study heat transfer, heating and cooling equipment, temperature, pressure, equipment sizing, and basic system performance.
Review refrigerant characteristics, compressors, condensers, metering devices, evaporators, superheat, subcooling, and refrigeration cycles.
Study gas piping, appliances, shutoff valves, regulators, fuel-gas sizing tables, natural gas, and LP gas.
Review combustion-air requirements, fuel-burning appliance venting, connectors, chimneys, flues, and safe exhaust arrangements.
Study air movement, supply and return ducts, exhaust equipment, mechanical ventilation, duct sizing, and static pressure.
Practice ACCA Manual J heating and cooling load calculations, building heat loss, heat gain, design conditions, and residential equipment selection.
Top subjects: Heating and Cooling and Refrigerants and Refrigeration.
Each top subject: Eight questions.
Official total: 50 questions.
Exam time: 130 minutes.
Start by obtaining the official PSI Candidate Information Bulletin.
Read the eight technical subject categories and the eleven Business and Law topics.
Obtain the 2021 IMC, 2021 IFGC, and Manual J.
Learn which reference applies to each question.
Study heating and cooling principles first, then refrigeration theory.
Review piping, electrical controls, motors, and fuel-gas systems.
Practice code lookup and equipment calculations.
Spend time reviewing Business and Law each week.
Finally, take full timed practice tests.
For a related store product, review the 2021 Mechanical and Fuel Gas Code Book Package.
These are useful codebooks because they match two of the three main approved New Jersey HVACR trade references.
Priority 1: Read the official PSI bulletin.
Priority 2: Obtain exact approved references.
Priority 3: Study all eight trade subjects.
Priority 4: Study Business and Law separately.
Priority 5: Practice under the 130-minute time limit.
Understanding how refrigerant moves through an air-conditioning system is useful for the New Jersey HVACR Trade examination.
Simplified training diagram. It is not a complete installation design or service procedure.
Review New Jersey Master HVACR Contractor scope and statutory exemptions.
Complete a qualifying apprenticeship, degree, and journeyperson experience pathway.
Prepare work certifications, training records, transcripts, and required supporting documents.
Apply through the New Jersey HVACR Board and pay the application fee.
Wait for the Board's Examination Eligibility Notice before registering.
Study the HVACR Trade outline, 2021 IMC, 2021 IFGC, Manual J, and Business and Law references.
Complete both 50-question exams and earn at least 70% on each.
Follow the Board's final licensing instructions, business compliance requirements, and continuing education rules.
These percentages are calculated from the 50-question official PSI trade outline.
Official total: 50 questions.
Largest subjects: Heating and Cooling and Refrigeration.
Passing score: 70%, equal to 35 correct.
| Reference | Edition | Exam-Day Status |
|---|---|---|
| International Mechanical Code | 2021 | Approved for HVACR Trade examination. |
| International Fuel Gas Code | 2021 | Approved for HVACR Trade examination. |
| ACCA Manual J Residential Load Calculations | Reprinted 2016 | Approved for HVACR Trade examination. |
| Handheld Ductulator | Handheld Tool | Allowed for trade examination. |
| International Mechanical Code | 2018 | No longer permitted. |
| International Fuel Gas Code | 2018 | No longer permitted. |
| Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning | Study Textbook | Not allowed in examination center. |
| HVAC Duct Construction Standards | SMACNA Study Reference | Not allowed in examination center. |
| Ugly's Electrical References | Electrical Study Reference | Not allowed in examination center. |
| NASCLA Contractors' Guide to Business, Law and Project Management | Basic 11th Edition | Approved Business and Law reference. |
| New Jersey Uniform Enforcement Act | Listed Title 45 Sections | Approved Business and Law reference. |
| New Jersey Construction Lien Law | Listed Title 2A Sections | Approved Business and Law reference. |
| New Jersey NASCLA Contractor's Guide | Second Edition Store Product | Not the same as the approved NASCLA Basic 11th reference. |
Trade: Three main authorized books.
Business: NASCLA Basic 11th and specified New Jersey statutes.
Store package distinction: Books in another state's package are not automatically a New Jersey-approved exam kit.
The best open-book strategy is to learn the layout of each permitted reference before the examination.
Practice locating mechanical ventilation rules in the IMC.
Find fuel-gas piping and venting tables in the IFGC.
Practice load calculations in Manual J.
Prepare permanent tabs before testing and follow PSI's reference-condition rules.
New Jersey Master HVACR Contractors perform work involving qualified heating, ventilating, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems.
The regulated scope may include planning, installing, maintaining, servicing, renovating, testing, commissioning, and repairing qualifying equipment.
Work may involve cooling systems, heating equipment, refrigeration equipment, ventilation systems, ductwork, piping, and associated controls.
Contractors must follow applicable building, mechanical, fuel-gas, electrical, permitting, and safety requirements.
Business activities may also be subject to bona fide representative and licensing rules.
Trade scope: Heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration.
State credential: Master HVACR Contractor.
Federal certification: EPA Section 608 may apply to refrigerant handling.
Business requirements: Follow Board rules and the appropriate license structure.
| Exam or Credential | Main Purpose | Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Master HVACR Contractor License | State-regulated HVACR contracting. | Requires Board eligibility and licensing. |
| HVACR Trade Exam | Mechanical, refrigeration, gas and HVACR technical knowledge. | 50 questions, 130 minutes. |
| Business and Law Exam | Contracts, licensing, estimating, management and finance. | Separate 50-question exam. |
| HVACR Apprentice | Qualifying supervised training. | Can support an approved license pathway. |
| HVACR Journeyperson | Qualifying trade work following training. | Important experience component. |
| EPA Section 608 | Federal refrigerant-handling certification. | Separate from contractor licensing. |
| ICC Mechanical Plans Examiner M3 | Mechanical plan-review certification. | Different examination, though it uses relevant codebooks. |
50 Questions • 130 Minutes • 70% Passing
50 Questions • 130 Minutes • 70% Passing
Qualifications • Application • Renewal
The trade examination can be challenging because it covers eight technical categories.
Some questions involve heating, cooling, and refrigeration theory.
Others involve electrical controls, piping, fuel gas, combustion air, ventilation, and Manual J calculations.
The separate Business and Law examination adds contractor management and legal topics.
First-time candidates must take both examinations on the same day.
Each test allows 130 minutes.
The open-book format is helpful, but candidates need to recognize which reference contains the correct information.
Studying only refrigeration is not enough.
Studying only mechanical codes is not enough either.
Use the official subject outline to balance your preparation.
A well-organized study schedule and repeated timed practice can make the exam feel much more manageable.
The following real store products are related to New Jersey HVACR exam topics. Each product is identified according to its actual purpose.
2021 International Mechanical Code • 2021 International Fuel Gas Code
Best for: Obtaining two book titles that match the approved New Jersey HVACR Trade reference list.
Important: This product is sold for the ICC Mechanical Plans Examiner M3 exam, not as a complete New Jersey HVACR exam package. Manual J is not included.
Mechanical Code • Fuel Gas Code • Manual J • Refrigeration
Best for: Broad technical HVACR study using references that include all three main authorized New Jersey trade book titles.
Important: This is a Louisiana HVACR package with rental terms. Several books included in the rental are study-only for New Jersey and cannot be brought into the New Jersey trade exam room.
2021 IMC • 2021 IFGC • Code Practice
Best for: Students wanting structured practice with the 2021 mechanical and fuel-gas codes.
Important: This is an ICC M3 rental product. The M3 exam differs from the New Jersey HVACR Trade examination, and the product does not include Manual J.
Two matching code references: 2021 IMC and IFGC.
Additional matching trade reference: Manual J reprinted 2016.
Business examination: NASCLA Basic 11th Edition and specified New Jersey statutes, which should be obtained separately.
Store product labels: Other-state and ICC packages are presented as related resources, not renamed as New Jersey-specific packages.
Related mechanical-code study product image sourced from ContractorExamPreps.com.
The product image represents an ICC Mechanical Plans Examiner M3 book set that includes code editions also approved for the New Jersey HVACR Trade examination. It is not an official state-issued HVACR license image.
Master HVACR Contractor Licensing • PSI Trade Examination • Business and Law • Refrigeration • Fuel Gas • Mechanical Code
New Jersey HVACR Trade Examination
There are 50 questions on the official PSI HVACR Trade examination.
PSI allows 130 minutes, equal to two hours and ten minutes.
The passing score is 70%, equal to 35 correct answers out of 50.
Yes. The exam is open book, but only references specifically allowed by PSI may be used during testing.
The September 2026 PSI bulletin lists an $84 trade examination fee.
PSI administers the tests after the New Jersey HVACR Board authorizes the candidate.
Business and Law Examination
Yes. Master HVACR Contractor applicants must pass both HVACR Trade and Business and Law.
The exam contains 50 questions and allows 130 minutes. Candidates need 70% to pass.
Yes. The current PSI bulletin requires first-time candidates to take both portions on the same day.
The PSI bulletin lists NASCLA Contractors' Guide to Business, Law and Project Management, Basic 11th Edition, together with specified New Jersey statutes.
Do not assume they are interchangeable. PSI lists the Basic 11th Edition for HVACR Business and Law, while the New Jersey Second Edition sold on the store is a different publication.
Approved Trade Books
The 2021 International Mechanical Code is currently permitted.
PSI currently permits the 2021 International Fuel Gas Code.
No. PSI ended acceptance of the 2018 editions. Use the specified 2021 codes.
Yes. The approved reference is Manual J Residential Load Calculations, reprinted 2016.
Yes. PSI explicitly allows a handheld ductulator.
No. PSI identifies it as study reference material but not an approved exam-room book for HVACR Trade.
Yes. Approved books may be permanently tabbed or indexed before testing. Temporary Post-it tabs are not permitted.
No. PSI prohibits writing in reference materials during the examination.
HVACR Trade Topics
Heating and Cooling Principles and Refrigerants and Refrigeration are the largest subjects, with eight questions each.
Yes. Electrical Knowledge, Motors, and Controls includes seven questions.
The Piping category contains seven questions involving refrigeration, hydronic, steam, and process systems.
Yes. Fuel and LP Gas contains five questions. Combustion Air, Chimneys, Flues, and Vents contains another five.
Yes. Ducts, Ventilation, and Exhaust accounts for five questions.
Yes. Load Calculations contributes five questions, and ACCA Manual J is the approved reference.
Licensing Requirements and Fees
Applicants must complete one of the Board-approved experience and education pathways, including qualifying apprenticeship or degree routes followed by required journeyperson experience.
The Board's published application fee is $100, with a separate licensing fee after approval.
The current PSI bulletin requires a six-month waiting period between attempts.
The Board's published renewal fee is $160. Verify the fee when renewing.
The Board generally requires five credits in each biennial renewal period, subject to applicable rules and exemptions.
No. Federal refrigerant-handling certification is separate from the New Jersey contractor license and may be required for qualifying work.
Contractor Exam Preps Books
Yes. Its ICC Mechanical Plans Examiner M3 Exam Book Package includes both 2021 editions, which match two approved New Jersey HVACR Trade references.
Yes. The related Louisiana HVACR books and courses rental package includes Manual J reprinted 2016 and both 2021 codebooks, along with additional study-only references.
No. The refrigeration, duct construction, and electrical reference textbooks are study-only for New Jersey. Only PSI-approved references may be taken into the examination room.
No. ICC M3 is a Mechanical Plans Examiner certification. It uses related codes, but the New Jersey Master HVACR Contractor examination has its own outline and licensing requirements.
No. Study products support learning, but examination results and license approval depend on the candidate and New Jersey's official requirements.
Watch this relevant 1ExamPrep video about New Jersey Business and Law examination topics, open-book preparation, licensing rules, contracts, and contractor management.
Business and Law is the second required PSI examination for New Jersey Master HVACR Contractor licensing.
Use this video for the business examination. Study the official HVACR Trade reference list and eight technical subjects separately.
Video creator: 1ExamPrep.
Video title: New Jersey Business and Law Contractor Exam Guide | How to Pass on Your First Try.
HVACR relevance: Business and Law is a required Master HVACR Contractor examination.
Business exam details: 50 questions, 130 minutes, 70% passing.
Trade exam details: Separate 50-question HVACR technical examination.
Watch the 1ExamPrep New Jersey Business and Law Video on YouTube
Explore Contractor Exam Preps New Jersey Licensing Resources
Use the New Jersey HVACR Board and PSI for official examination and licensing rules.
Explore related mechanical codebooks, reference rental products, and learning resources from Contractor Exam Preps.
HVACR Trade: 50 questions, 130 minutes, 70% passing.
Business and Law: 50 questions, 130 minutes, 70% passing.
Approved trade books: 2021 IMC, 2021 IFGC, and Manual J reprinted 2016.
Approved business book: NASCLA Basic 11th Edition and specified New Jersey statutes.
Related store books: Mechanical-code packages and HVACR reference rentals.
Preparing for the New Jersey Master HVACR Contractor examinations is an important step for experienced heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration professionals.
HVACR systems are part of everyday life.
They heat homes, cool offices, provide ventilation, and keep refrigeration equipment operating.
When those systems fail, customers need qualified professionals who understand how to identify and correct the problem.
New Jersey regulates Master HVACR Contractors through the State Board of Examiners of HVACR Contractors.
Applicants must complete a qualifying education and experience pathway, submit their application, and receive approval before taking the licensing examinations.
PSI administers the examinations.
The current licensing process requires two tests.
The first is HVACR Trade.
The second is Business and Law.
Both examinations contain 50 questions.
Both allow 130 minutes.
Both require 70% passing, equal to 35 correct answers.
First-time candidates take both examinations on the same day.
That means students should prepare for technical HVACR questions and contractor business topics together.
The HVACR Trade examination covers eight subjects.
Heating and Cooling Principles, Theory, and Equipment includes eight questions.
Refrigerants and Refrigeration also includes eight questions.
Electrical Knowledge, Motors, and Controls includes seven.
Piping, including Refrigeration, Hydronic, Steam, and Process, includes another seven.
Fuel and LP Gas contributes five questions.
Combustion Air, Chimneys, Flues, and Vents contributes five questions.
Ducts, Ventilation, and Exhaust includes five.
Load Calculations includes the final five.
These categories total 50 questions.
The two largest subjects involve heating, cooling, and refrigeration.
Students should learn how heat moves through equipment and how the refrigeration cycle operates.
Review compressors, condensers, evaporators, and metering devices.
Understand the purpose of superheat and subcooling measurements.
Study basic HVAC equipment performance and operation.
Electrical knowledge is also important.
HVACR equipment uses motors, relays, contactors, capacitors, thermostats, and protective controls.
Students should understand the basic electrical principles that allow these devices to operate.
Piping is another major subject.
Refrigerant, hydronic, steam, and process piping may use different materials and installation methods.
Fuel-gas knowledge is critical for work involving gas-fired equipment.
Study gas piping, valves, regulators, appliance connections, and the correct use of sizing tables.
Combustion air and venting deserve special attention because poor installation can create serious safety hazards.
Ductwork, ventilation, and exhaust systems are also important.
Contractors must understand how airflow moves through a building and how mechanical-code requirements apply to ventilation systems.
Residential heating and cooling loads are tested through the Manual J subject area.
Manual J helps determine the heating or cooling capacity needed for a building.
Proper load calculations are important because equipment must be selected according to actual building requirements.
The trade examination is open book.
However, candidates may only use approved references in the testing room.
The current list includes the 2021 International Mechanical Code, 2021 International Fuel Gas Code, and ACCA Manual J reprinted 2016.
The 2018 mechanical and fuel-gas code editions are no longer accepted.
PSI also permits a handheld ductulator.
Students should become comfortable navigating these references before testing.
Open-book examinations still require understanding.
Looking through the wrong book for five minutes can make a simple question feel very difficult.
Knowing how the references are organized helps save time.
Other technical books may support study without being approved for the examination center.
Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning is useful for understanding system components and refrigeration concepts.
HVAC Duct Construction Standards supports ductwork knowledge.
Ugly's Electrical References helps with electrical formulas and technical information.
But PSI does not allow those books in the HVACR Trade exam room.
Students should use them at home.
Business and Law is the second required examination.
Its subjects include licensing, business organization, estimating, contract management, project management, safety, labor law, finance, taxes, risk, and lien law.
The approved reference list includes NASCLA Contractors' Guide to Business, Law and Project Management, Basic 11th Edition, and specified New Jersey statutes.
It is important to obtain that exact publication.
Contractor Exam Preps sells a New Jersey NASCLA Second Edition book, but that is not the same publication as the Basic 11th Edition named in the HVACR bulletin.
New Jersey also requires qualifying experience and education.
One route includes a four-year approved HVACR apprenticeship and one year of journeyperson experience.
Other pathways involve an HVACR bachelor's degree or a related degree with qualifying practical experience.
Applicants should review the official Board rules and gather their supporting documents early.
The Board's published application fee is $100.
The current PSI fees are $84 for the HVACR Trade examination and $47 for Business and Law.
That is a combined PSI examination cost of $131, excluding the state license fee and study materials.
PSI requires a six-month waiting period between examination attempts after a failure.
This is a good reason to take preparation seriously.
Contractor Exam Preps offers related reference books and study products.
The ICC Mechanical Plans Examiner M3 Book Package contains the 2021 IMC and 2021 IFGC.
These are two of the three authorized New Jersey HVACR Trade references.
The package is marketed for ICC Mechanical Plans Examiner preparation, not as a New Jersey-specific HVACR course.
For broader technical study, the store sells an HVACR books and courses rental package that includes the 2021 IMC, 2021 IFGC, Manual J reprinted 2016, and additional textbooks.
That product is marketed for Louisiana testing and contains books that are study-only for New Jersey.
Students should review the package carefully before choosing it.
A six-week study plan can help organize preparation.
Begin with electrical controls, heating and cooling, and refrigeration.
Continue with piping, fuel-gas systems, combustion air, and venting.
Then review ducts, ventilation, Manual J, and business law.
Finish with timed practice examinations for both required tests.
Strong preparation includes correct reference books, practical HVACR knowledge, consistent study, and familiarity with the New Jersey licensing process.
With these tools and habits, candidates can approach the New Jersey Master HVACR Contractor examinations with greater confidence.
New Jersey HVACR Contractor Exam Prep helps experienced HVACR professionals prepare for the state's Master HVACR Contractor licensing process.
HVACR means heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration.
Contractors work with equipment that keeps buildings comfortable and refrigeration systems operating properly.
New Jersey regulates this work through the State Board of Examiners of HVACR Contractors.
Applicants must qualify through approved experience or education and complete the required licensing process.
The two required examinations are HVACR Trade and Business and Law.
Both examinations are administered by PSI.
Each examination contains 50 questions.
Each allows 130 minutes.
Each requires a score of 70% to pass.
This equals 35 correct answers on each exam.
First-time candidates must take both examinations on the same day.
The HVACR Trade exam covers eight subjects.
Electrical Knowledge, Motors, and Controls has seven questions.
Piping, including Refrigeration, Hydronic, Steam, and Process, has seven questions.
Heating and Cooling Principles, Theory, and Equipment has eight questions.
Refrigerants and Refrigeration has eight questions.
Fuel and LP Gas has five questions.
Combustion Air, Chimneys, Flues, and Vents has five questions.
Ducts, Ventilation, and Exhaust has five questions.
Load Calculations has five questions.
All eight subjects total 50 questions.
Students should understand how heating and cooling equipment operates.
They should review the refrigeration cycle and major equipment components.
These include compressors, condensers, metering devices, and evaporators.
Study refrigerant pressure, temperature, superheat, and subcooling.
Electrical controls are also important.
HVACR equipment uses motors, thermostats, capacitors, relays, transformers, switches, and contactors.
Basic electrical calculations support understanding of this equipment.
Piping study includes refrigerant piping, hydronic systems, steam piping, valves, fittings, and pipe supports.
Fuel-gas study includes natural gas, LP gas, regulators, valves, appliance installation, and gas pipe sizing.
Combustion air and venting are important because fuel-burning appliances must operate safely.
Students should review applicable chimneys, vents, flues, and combustion-air arrangements.
Ductwork and ventilation are also tested.
These subjects include airflow, supply and return ducts, exhaust systems, static pressure, and mechanical ventilation.
Residential heating and cooling loads are covered through ACCA Manual J.
Students should understand how building size, insulation, windows, and design conditions affect system requirements.
The official HVACR Trade examination is open book.
The permitted references are the 2021 International Mechanical Code, 2021 International Fuel Gas Code, and ACCA Manual J reprinted 2016.
The older 2018 mechanical and fuel-gas codes are not permitted.
A handheld ductulator is allowed.
Some additional textbooks are useful for learning but cannot be brought into the trade examination room.
Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning is one example.
HVAC Duct Construction Standards and Ugly's Electrical References are also study-only publications for this examination.
Students should check the official PSI bulletin before preparing their test-day books.
Business and Law is the second required examination.
It also has 50 questions, 130 minutes, and a 70% passing requirement.
Its subjects include business organization, licensing, estimating and bidding, contracts, project management, risk management, safety, labor law, financial management, taxes, and lien law.
The largest Business and Law subject is Contract Management.
Estimating and Bidding is another important category.
The approved book for this portion is the NASCLA Contractors' Guide to Business, Law and Project Management, Basic 11th Edition.
The exam also allows the listed New Jersey statutory provisions.
Applicants must carefully distinguish that book from the New Jersey NASCLA Second Edition sold by some retailers.
They are different publications.
New Jersey's licensing qualifications include approved apprenticeship and degree pathways.
One example is a four-year approved HVACR apprenticeship followed by one year of journeyperson experience.
Other qualifying paths may involve an HVACR degree or related bachelor's degree plus specified practical experience.
The Board reviews documentation and determines eligibility.
The current Board application fee is $100.
PSI lists an $84 fee for the HVACR Trade examination.
The Business and Law fee is $47.
Both PSI exam fees total $131.
Additional license fees, study materials, and application costs are separate.
Applicants who fail must follow PSI's six-month waiting period between attempts.
Master HVACR Contractors must also maintain licensing and continuing education requirements.
The Board generally requires five continuing education credits for each biennial renewal period.
Contractor Exam Preps sells related study materials.
The ICC Mechanical Plans Examiner M3 Book Package includes the 2021 International Mechanical Code and 2021 International Fuel Gas Code.
Those two editions match approved New Jersey HVACR Trade references.
However, the ICC M3 product is not the same as a complete New Jersey HVACR exam package.
A related Louisiana HVACR rental package includes the 2021 IMC, 2021 IFGC, Manual J reprinted 2016, and additional technical study books.
It is helpful for broad study but contains some materials that are not permitted in the New Jersey testing center.
Candidates should compare all product contents with the official PSI reference list.
A useful preparation plan begins with electrical theory, heating and cooling, and refrigeration.
It continues with piping, fuel gas, combustion air, venting, and ductwork.
Students should also practice Manual J calculations and review Business and Law each week.
The final stage should include timed practice examinations and careful review of incorrect answers.
Understanding the trade, using the correct books, and preparing for both exams can help applicants approach New Jersey Master HVACR Contractor licensing with stronger knowledge and greater confidence.
Explore mechanical codebooks, HVACR technical study resources, contractor exam materials, and related licensing preparation at ContractorExamPreps.com.
