Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board • PSI HVAC Trade Exam • 100 Scored Questions • 10 Pretest Questions • 4 Hours • 70% Passing • 2024 Ohio Mechanical Code • Business and Law
Preparing for the Ohio HVAC Contractor license examination? This guide explains the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board requirements, the PSI HVAC trade examination, official subject areas, approved reference books, Business and Law testing, study plans, and related training from Contractor Exam Preps.
HVAC contractors keep buildings comfortable when Ohio weather cannot decide whether it wants to be a freezer, a sauna, or both in the same week.
Heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems are essential in homes, offices, stores, schools, and commercial buildings.
These systems move air, control temperatures, handle moisture, and improve indoor comfort.
But running an HVAC business takes more than knowing which wire goes to the thermostat.
A contractor must understand equipment installation, heating systems, cooling systems, ductwork, ventilation, exhaust, fuel gas, safety controls, piping, testing, and inspections.
Commercial contractors must also know how to handle estimates, contracts, insurance, employees, and business law.
That is why Ohio has a statewide commercial HVAC contractor licensing process.
The Ohio HVAC Contractor license is a statewide commercial specialty contractor credential issued through the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board, commonly called OCILB.
The Board operates within the Ohio Department of Commerce.
Ohio's five OCILB specialty licensing categories are Electrical, HVAC, Hydronics, Plumbing, and Refrigeration.
The state HVAC credential covers qualifying heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning contractor work.
It includes central heating and cooling systems, associated ducts, piping, equipment, apparatus, insulation, and related components within the authorized scope.
The OCILB license is mainly associated with commercial contracting.
Residential-only contractor rules, local registrations, and permit requirements may vary by city or other local authority.
PSI administers the examination for candidates approved by OCILB.
Candidates do not simply purchase an examination and receive a state license.
Applicants must first meet the Board's eligibility requirements.
OCILB reviews the application and approves qualified candidates to test.
After authorization, the candidate completes the required background checks and schedules the examination with PSI.
The official PSI Ohio Contractor Trade Examination bulletin lists 100 scored questions for the HVAC Contractor examination.
The examination also includes 10 additional unscored pretest questions.
That means candidates can expect up to 110 questions presented during the examination.
The pretest questions help PSI evaluate possible future examination items.
They do not count toward the score.
PSI does not identify which items are pretest questions while candidates are testing.
Answer every question carefully.
The Ohio HVAC Contractor trade examination lasts four hours, or 240 minutes.
With 110 questions presented, that is an average of about two minutes and eleven seconds per question.
Some questions may be answered quickly.
Others require reference searches or calculations.
Preparation should include timed practice so the clock does not become your least favorite piece of HVAC equipment.
Ohio requires a 70% passing score on the HVAC trade examination.
That equals 70 correct answers from the 100 scored questions.
Pretest items do not count toward the passing score.
Try to score well above 70% on practice examinations before scheduling the actual test.
Yes. The current PSI bulletin identifies the Ohio HVAC Contractor examination as open book.
However, only approved reference books may be brought into the examination center.
For the HVAC trade examination, PSI lists three main references:
Candidates provide their own copies.
Books may be highlighted, underlined, or indexed before testing.
Writing in references during the examination is not permitted.
Additional loose or attached papers are prohibited.
Follow the current PSI instructions for tabs, reference condition, identification, and prohibited items.
The HVAC trade examination includes seven subject areas.
These categories total 100 scored questions.
Warm Air Heating and Air Distribution is the largest category with 25 questions.
Equipment and Appliances follows with 20 questions.
Those two topics represent 45% of the trade examination.
Warm Air Heating and Air Distribution is the most heavily tested subject.
Study furnaces, air handlers, heating systems, supply ducts, return ducts, airflow, duct sizing, and distribution requirements.
Review duct materials and support requirements.
Learn the difference between supply air, return air, and outdoor ventilation air.
Study temperature rise, airflow restrictions, static pressure, filtration, and blower operation.
Understand why an incorrectly sized duct system can make a powerful HVAC unit perform like a tired desk fan.
Equipment and Appliances accounts for 20 questions.
Study equipment installation, locations, access, working clearances, supports, safety controls, and manufacturer requirements.
Review furnaces, air conditioners, heat pumps, air handlers, packaged equipment, and related appliances.
Know the purpose of equipment ratings and nameplates.
Understand basic startup, service access, and equipment protection requirements.
Ventilation and Exhaust Systems contains 15 questions.
Study outdoor-air requirements, mechanical ventilation, exhaust ducts, bathroom exhaust, dryer exhaust, commercial kitchen ventilation, and other exhaust systems.
Review duct terminations and equipment locations.
Learn how makeup air helps replace air removed by exhaust systems.
Understand why improper exhaust design can affect both safety and comfort.
Air Conditioning contains ten questions.
Study the refrigeration cycle, evaporators, condensers, compressors, expansion devices, heat pumps, and cooling equipment.
Understand how refrigerant absorbs and releases heat.
Review airflow across cooling coils and the importance of condensate drainage.
Learn the difference between sensible and latent cooling.
Practice identifying major components and their functions.
Piping Systems contains ten questions.
Review fuel-gas piping, permitted materials, sizing, joints, fittings, valves, regulators, supports, and pressure testing.
Study combustion air and appliance venting.
Use the 2021 International Fuel Gas Code for fuel-gas questions.
Review piping-related requirements in the Ohio Mechanical Code where applicable.
General Knowledge and Requirements contains ten questions.
Study basic HVAC terminology, code administration, general installation requirements, design principles, and safe work practices.
Learn how to read mechanical plans and equipment specifications.
Review basic formulas and how to interpret manufacturer instructions.
Testing and Inspection contains ten questions.
Study system startup, testing procedures, inspection requirements, equipment checks, airflow verification, fuel piping tests, and safe operation.
Understand the importance of identifying problems before a system is placed into service.
Know what inspections and approvals may be required by the local building department.
Ohio Revised Code Section 4740.06 establishes contractor eligibility requirements.
Applicants must generally be at least 18 years old and meet the applicable legal residency and professional conduct requirements.
One standard pathway requires at least five years of experience as a tradesperson in the licensed trade immediately before applying.
Ohio also recognizes certain alternative qualifications.
For example, an Ohio-registered engineer with three years of qualifying business experience in the construction industry may meet an alternative standard.
The Board may consider other acceptable experience.
Military service and substantially similar out-of-state credentials may be subject to additional statutory pathways.
Applicants should submit accurate experience documentation and follow the current OCILB instructions.
Ohio contractor licensees generally must maintain at least $500,000 in contractor liability insurance.
The coverage must meet OCILB requirements and be associated with the proper licensed contracting business.
Insurance requirements do not end when the examination is over.
Maintaining coverage is part of ongoing licensing compliance.
Yes. Ohio requires applicants for OCILB commercial specialty licenses to pass a Contractor's Business and Law examination in addition to the relevant trade exam.
The Business and Law examination has 50 scored questions and five additional unscored pretest items.
Candidates have two hours.
The passing score is 70%.
The main reference is the Contractor's Guide to Business, Law, and Project Management, Ohio, 4th Edition.
PSI provides the approved book in the testing center for Business and Law.
Candidates may also bring an approved personal copy according to PSI's rules.
The book supplied by PSI cannot be highlighted or written in during the exam.
The official Business and Law blueprint includes:
These categories total 50 scored questions.
Estimating and Bidding is the largest Business and Law section with eight questions.
The published PSI Ohio contractor bulletin lists an examination registration fee of $69.
The fee applies to each exam registration.
If candidates register separately for HVAC and Business and Law at that listed rate, the combined examination registration cost is $138.
State application fees, licensing fees, insurance expenses, and business costs are separate.
OCILB approval is valid for one year under the published bulletin.
Applicants must also complete the required federal and state background checks before testing.
After a failed examination portion, the bulletin specifies a 60-day waiting period before retesting.
Ohio contractor licenses require continuing education.
The general requirement is ten approved continuing education hours per year.
Qualified licensees in Ohio's Compliant Contractor Program receive a reduction to eight hours per year.
Eligible compliant contractors may also qualify for a three-year renewal schedule with 24 hours of continuing education.
These are renewal and license-maintenance rules, not additional questions on the HVAC trade examination.
HVAC professionals working with regulated refrigerants may also need certification under the federal EPA Section 608 program.
EPA certification is separate from Ohio's OCILB HVAC Contractor license.
One does not automatically replace the other.
Contractors should make sure employees performing regulated refrigerant work hold the appropriate federal certification.
Contractor Exam Preps sells the Ohio HVAC Contractor Online Exam Prep Course.
The course focuses on PSI preparation, HVAC systems, installation requirements, calculations, ductwork, mechanical codes, fuel gas, and exam-style practice.
For the required business subject, the store carries Ohio NASCLA Contractor's Guide to Business, Law and Project Management tabs.
The Ohio-specific Business and Law reference is the 4th Edition. Make sure you have the book itself, not just tabs.
The store also offers Ohio Contractor License Application Service for application-related support.
That application service is separate from trade exam preparation.
Start by reviewing the official PSI content outline.
Organize your study around the seven HVAC subject areas.
Spend extra time on Warm Air Heating and Air Distribution, Equipment and Appliances, and Ventilation and Exhaust.
Study the 2024 Ohio Mechanical Code.
Practice using the 2021 International Fuel Gas Code.
Review Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, 22nd Edition.
Study Business and Law separately.
Work through practice examinations under realistic time limits.
Review missed questions and repeat weak topics.
The goal is to understand the equipment, know the code references, and finish each examination within the allowed time.
Important Ohio HVAC Contractor Exam Update: The official PSI Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board trade bulletin currently lists 100 scored HVAC questions, ten unscored pretest questions, four hours, and 70% passing. The HVAC exam is open book with three approved references: 2024 Ohio Mechanical Code, 2021 International Fuel Gas Code, and Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, 22nd Edition. The separate Ohio Contractor's Business and Law examination contains 50 scored questions, five unscored pretest items, two hours, and 70% passing. Ohio's current state law requires qualifying experience, board approval, background checks, and contractor liability insurance. Verify the most recent PSI bulletin before testing because code editions and administrative rules may change.
An Ohio HVAC Contractor is a professional licensed through OCILB to perform qualifying commercial heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning contracting work.
The scope covers installation, maintenance, repair, fabrication, alteration, and extension of central HVAC systems and related components.
It can include ducts, piping, equipment, insulation, and other components within a complete system.
The license is not the same as an EPA refrigerant-handling credential.
It is also different from any local residential contractor registration that may apply in a specific Ohio municipality.
Official license: Ohio HVAC Contractor.
Licensing board: Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board.
Testing provider: PSI.
Trade exam: HVAC Contractor.
Additional exam: Contractor's Business and Law.
Main work focus: State-regulated commercial HVAC contracting.
| Requirement | Ohio Information | Preparation |
|---|---|---|
| State | Ohio | Review OCILB licensing requirements. |
| Credential | HVAC Contractor | State commercial specialty credential. |
| Regulator | OCILB | Apply through Ohio Department of Commerce. |
| Testing Provider | PSI | Schedule after Board authorization. |
| Minimum Age | 18 | Confirm statutory eligibility. |
| Legal Status | U.S. Citizen or Qualified Legal Resident | Supply required documentation. |
| Standard Experience | Five Years | Experience in requested trade. |
| Experience Timing | Immediately Before Application | Document relevant work. |
| Engineer Alternative | Ohio Registered Engineer Plus Three Years Business Experience | Confirm Board eligibility. |
| Other Experience Routes | Board-Accepted Alternatives | Review current statute. |
| Application Approval | OCILB | Obtain before PSI. |
| Background Checks | Federal and State | Follow Board instructions. |
| PSI Approval Period | One Year | Schedule within allowed window. |
| HVAC Trade Scored Questions | 100 | Seven content areas. |
| HVAC Pretest Items | 10 | Not scored. |
| HVAC Questions Presented | 110 | Plan exam pacing. |
| HVAC Exam Time | 240 Minutes | Four-hour test. |
| HVAC Passing Requirement | 70% | 70 scored items. |
| Trade Exam Format | Open Book | Bring approved references. |
| Ohio Mechanical Code | 2024 | Approved trade reference. |
| International Fuel Gas Code | 2021 | Approved trade reference. |
| Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning | 22nd Edition | Approved trade reference. |
| Business and Law Exam | Required | Separate examination. |
| Business Scored Questions | 50 | Eleven content areas. |
| Business Pretest Items | 5 | Unscored. |
| Business Exam Time | 120 Minutes | Two-hour test. |
| Business Passing | 70% | 35 scored items. |
| Business Reference | Ohio NASCLA, 4th Edition | PSI supplies reference. |
| PSI Registration Fee | $69 | Per examination registration. |
| Failed Exam Retake Wait | 60 Days | Follow bulletin. |
| PSI Retake Limit | Up to Five Times Per Year | Follow current rules. |
| Liability Insurance | $500,000 Minimum | Maintain compliant coverage. |
| Continuing Education | Generally Ten Hours Annually | Use approved coursework. |
| Compliant Contractor Program | Eight Hours Annually | Only if accepted into program. |
| Compliant Three-Year Renewal | 24 Hours of CE | For eligible program members. |
| EPA Section 608 | Separate Federal Certification | Required for applicable refrigerant work. |
| Local Registration | May Apply | Check project municipality. |
| Local Permits | May Apply | Check jurisdiction and project. |
| Detail | Category | Exam Information |
|---|---|---|
| License | State | Ohio HVAC Contractor |
| Licensing Board | State | OCILB |
| Testing Company | Testing | PSI |
| Trade Exam | Testing | Ohio HVAC Contractor |
| Scored Trade Questions | Testing | 100 |
| Trade Pretest Questions | Testing | 10 |
| Trade Time | Testing | 4 Hours |
| Trade Passing | Testing | 70% |
| Trade Passing Answers | Testing | 70 of 100 Scored |
| Trade Format | References | Open Book |
| General Knowledge | Trade | 10 Questions |
| Warm Air and Distribution | Trade | 25 Questions |
| Ventilation and Exhaust | Trade | 15 Questions |
| Air Conditioning | Trade | 10 Questions |
| Piping Systems | Trade | 10 Questions |
| Equipment and Appliances | Trade | 20 Questions |
| Testing and Inspection | Trade | 10 Questions |
| Ohio Mechanical Code | References | 2024 |
| International Fuel Gas Code | References | 2021 |
| Modern Refrigeration | References | 22nd Edition |
| Business and Law | Testing | Required |
| Business Scored Questions | Testing | 50 |
| Business Pretest | Testing | 5 |
| Business Exam Duration | Testing | 2 Hours |
| Business Passing | Testing | 70% |
| Business NASCLA Edition | References | Ohio 4th Edition |
| Combined Scored Questions | Testing | 150 |
| Combined Pretest Items | Testing | 15 |
| Combined Testing Time | Testing | 6 Hours |
| Examination Registration Fee | Fees | $69 Per Registration |
| Board Approval Window | Scheduling | 1 Year |
| Retake Waiting Period | Scheduling | 60 Days |
| Background Check | Licensing | Federal and State |
HVAC trade: 100 scored questions, ten unscored, 240 minutes, 70%.
Business and Law: 50 scored questions, five unscored, 120 minutes, 70%.
Trade books: 2024 Ohio Mechanical Code, 2021 IFGC, and Modern Refrigeration, 22nd Edition.
Business book: Ohio NASCLA, 4th Edition.
Study basic HVAC theory, general mechanical-code requirements, installation principles, equipment safety, mechanical plans, controls, and professional trade practices.
Study furnaces, air handlers, supply and return ducts, airflow, duct sizing, static pressure, heating equipment, distribution systems, and installation requirements.
Study outside-air supply, mechanical ventilation, exhaust fans, commercial kitchen exhaust, dryer exhaust, terminations, and makeup air.
Review refrigeration cycles, heat transfer, compressors, evaporators, condensers, metering devices, refrigerant flow, cooling equipment, and heat pumps.
Review fuel-gas piping, approved materials, pipe sizing, fittings, valves, regulators, supports, venting, combustion air, and pressure testing.
Study HVAC equipment installation, accessibility, safety devices, service clearances, equipment ratings, controls, fuel-fired appliances, and manufacturer instructions.
Review startup procedures, system testing, pressure testing, airflow checks, equipment inspection, code compliance, and proper documentation.
Official scored total: 100 questions.
Additional pretest questions: 10.
Largest category: Warm Air Heating and Air Distribution, 25.
Second largest: Equipment and Appliances, 20.
Begin with the official PSI bulletin.
Write down all seven technical exam categories.
Read the 2024 Ohio Mechanical Code and learn how the chapters are organized.
Study warm-air heating, air distribution, and duct systems.
Next review equipment, appliances, ventilation, and exhaust systems.
Learn the basics of air conditioning and the refrigeration cycle.
Practice fuel-gas questions using the 2021 International Fuel Gas Code.
Review system testing, startup, and inspections.
Complete timed HVAC practice tests.
For structured lessons, use the Ohio HVAC Contractor Online Exam Prep Course from Contractor Exam Preps.
Study Business and Law as a separate subject, then take practice exams for both required portions.
First: Understand the seven-subject blueprint.
Second: Practice with the exact current trade references.
Third: Focus on air distribution and equipment.
Fourth: Prepare for the separate Business and Law exam.
Fifth: Simulate the four-hour HVAC examination.
The Ohio HVAC Contractor examination includes questions about system components, air distribution, equipment installation, heating, cooling, piping, and inspection.
Educational HVAC diagram. Real installations require approved equipment, correct airflow, piping, electrical work, ventilation, drainage, and applicable code compliance.
Review OCILB requirements and distinguish statewide commercial HVAC licensing from local registrations and EPA certification.
Document the standard five-year HVAC trade experience requirement or another accepted pathway.
Prepare the application, experience information, fees, and required supporting documentation.
After Board approval, follow the current instructions for background checks and schedule the examination.
Prepare using the 2024 Ohio Mechanical Code, 2021 International Fuel Gas Code, and Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, 22nd Edition.
Complete the four-hour examination and achieve at least 70% on the 100 scored questions.
Prepare for 50 scored questions, five pretest items, two hours, and a 70% passing requirement.
Maintain required liability insurance, complete remaining Board instructions, and follow applicable local registration and renewal rules.
These percentages reflect the official 100 scored trade examination questions. Ten additional pretest questions do not count toward the score.
Total: 100 scored questions and 100%.
Largest topic: Warm Air Heating and Air Distribution, 25 questions.
Top two: 45 questions, or 45%.
Passing requirement: 70 correct scored answers.
The official PSI bulletin identifies three trade exam references and one main Business and Law reference.
| Reference | Edition | Exam-Day Status |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio Mechanical Code | 2024 | Approved HVAC trade reference. Candidate supplies book. |
| International Fuel Gas Code | 2021 | Approved HVAC trade reference. Candidate supplies book. |
| Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning | 22nd Edition | Approved HVAC trade reference. Candidate supplies book. |
| Contractor's Guide to Business, Law and Project Management, Ohio | 4th Edition | Business and Law reference, supplied by PSI. Approved personal copy may also be used. |
| Ohio Mechanical Code Preprinted Tabs | 2024 | Study and reference navigation aid. Tabs are not a book. |
| HVAC Duct Construction Standards | Various | Useful supplementary study, not one of the three PSI-listed Ohio HVAC trade references. |
| OSHA Construction Safety | Current Requirements | General safety study, not a listed Ohio HVAC trade exam-room book. |
| Manual J, Manual D, and Manual N | Various | Additional load and duct design education, not on the three-book exam-room reference list. |
| EPA Section 608 Materials | Current Federal Rules | Separate certification study, not an Ohio HVAC trade exam-room reference. |
HVAC trade exam: Bring the 2024 Ohio Mechanical Code, 2021 IFGC, and Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, 22nd Edition.
Business and Law: Ohio NASCLA, 4th Edition.
Personal books: Prior highlighting, underlining, and indexing are allowed. Do not write in books during testing or attach extra papers.
Current authority: Always check PSI's approved reference list for your scheduled examination.
An open-book examination gives you access to approved information.
It does not give you unlimited time to search.
Learn the major chapters of the Ohio Mechanical Code.
Know which topics belong in the International Fuel Gas Code.
Practice locating HVAC fundamentals and diagrams in Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning.
During practice, identify the subject first, choose the correct book, find the rule, and check the answer.
Ohio's commercial HVAC Contractor license applies to heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning work within the scope established by Chapter 4740 and the Board's licensing program.
This includes work with central air-conditioning systems, heating equipment, ventilation, ductwork, and related apparatus and components.
A licensee may undertake qualifying work involving installation, maintenance, repair, alteration, fabrication, or extension of HVAC systems.
Some projects may also involve separately regulated refrigeration, hydronics, electrical, or plumbing work.
The HVAC classification should not automatically be treated as permission to perform every other specialty.
Ohio contractors must also comply with local registration, permits, inspections, and applicable federal refrigerant requirements.
Credential: Ohio HVAC Contractor.
Work: Qualifying commercial heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning contracting.
Related components: Ducts, piping, insulation, and HVAC equipment within the authorized scope.
Other specialties: Separate licenses may be required.
Local rules: Check project-specific permits and contractor registrations.
| License or Assessment | Main Purpose | Important Difference |
|---|---|---|
| Ohio HVAC Contractor | Commercial heating, ventilation, and air conditioning contracting. | State OCILB specialty license. |
| Ohio Refrigeration Contractor | Regulated refrigeration contracting. | Separate OCILB specialty examination and credential. |
| Ohio Hydronics Contractor | Hydronic heating and cooling systems. | Separate license category. |
| Ohio Electrical Contractor | Commercial electrical contracting. | Separate trade license and technical examination. |
| Ohio Plumbing Contractor | Commercial plumbing contracting. | Separate OCILB classification. |
| EPA Section 608 | Federally regulated refrigerant handling. | Separate federal certification. |
| Ohio Business and Law | Commercial contractor business competence. | Required along with the trade examination. |
| Local Residential HVAC Registration | Local contractor authorization where required. | Rules vary by municipality. |
100 Scored • 10 Pretest • 4 Hours
50 Scored • 5 Pretest • 2 Hours
Experience • Background Check • Insurance
The Ohio HVAC Contractor examination can be challenging because it combines technical knowledge, code requirements, and practical system understanding.
There are 100 scored questions and ten additional pretest items.
Candidates have four hours.
The largest subjects are Warm Air Heating and Air Distribution and Equipment and Appliances.
These topics alone represent 45 scored questions.
Airflow and ductwork can be difficult when a question requires both technical knowledge and code interpretation.
Equipment questions may involve clearances, manufacturer instructions, combustion air, safety devices, or operating requirements.
Fuel-gas piping and mechanical ventilation also require accurate codebook navigation.
The open-book format helps candidates who have practiced locating rules.
It is less helpful to candidates who have never opened the approved references before exam day.
Practice tests, study guides, and organized reference work help build familiarity.
Remember that the Business and Law exam is separate, with its own content and time limit.
The following products are listed on ContractorExamPreps.com and relate to Ohio HVAC examination preparation, Ohio Business and Law, or the contractor licensing process.
The technical examination references themselves must match PSI's exact approved titles and editions.
Ohio PSI HVAC • Mechanical Code • Ductwork • Fuel Gas
Best for: Candidates who want a dedicated Ohio HVAC Contractor training course and an organized study plan for PSI testing.
The course is not a replacement for the three approved trade reference books.
Business and Law • Reference Navigation • Ohio-Specific
Best for: Candidates preparing their personal Ohio NASCLA business guide to locate chapters more efficiently.
Important: Verify whether the selected store option includes the book or tabs only. The approved PSI Business and Law reference is the Ohio 4th Edition.
Application Support • Documents • Ohio Licensing
Best for: Candidates who want assistance organizing Ohio licensing and application materials.
Important: This is an application service, not an HVAC exam-preparation course. Books, exam fees, and government approvals are separate.
HVAC trade preparation: Ohio HVAC Contractor Online Exam Prep Course.
Business and Law: Ohio NASCLA 4th Edition and related reference tabs.
Application process: Separate Ohio Contractor License Application Service.
Exam-room books: Use the exact titles and editions listed in the official PSI bulletin.
Ohio HVAC Contractor course product image from ContractorExamPreps.com.
The product image is loaded from the live store's own Ohio HVAC course listing. This keeps the artwork matched to the Ohio HVAC credential rather than displaying a study package for a different state.
This is educational product artwork, not a state-issued HVAC contractor license.
OCILB • PSI HVAC Contractor • Heating • Ventilation • Air Conditioning • 2024 Ohio Mechanical Code • Business and Law
Ohio HVAC Contractor Licensing
The Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board, or OCILB, administers the statewide commercial HVAC Contractor licensing program.
Yes. The OCILB credential is a statewide commercial specialty license. Local contractor registration, permits, and residential-only requirements may still vary.
The standard statutory applicant age requirement is at least 18.
One standard pathway requires at least five years as a tradesperson in the requested trade immediately before applying. Ohio law also allows certain alternative qualification routes.
Ohio law recognizes a currently registered engineer with three years of qualifying business experience in the trade as an alternative route, subject to Board review.
Yes. The published PSI bulletin requires approved OCILB candidates to complete state and federal background checks before testing.
Ohio HVAC Contractor PSI Examination
There are 100 scored questions plus ten additional unscored pretest questions.
The examination lasts four hours, or 240 minutes.
The passing requirement is 70%, equal to 70 correct answers on the scored portion.
No. Pretest items are not scored. Candidates should still answer every presented question.
Yes. PSI permits the three approved HVAC trade reference books under its examination rules.
The published Ohio PSI contractor bulletin lists $69 per examination registration. Verify current fees when scheduling.
Ohio HVAC Examination Topics
Warm Air Heating and Air Distribution is the largest category with 25 scored questions.
Equipment and Appliances contains 20 scored questions.
Yes. Warm Air Heating and Air Distribution covers important airflow and duct-system concepts.
Yes. Ventilation and Exhaust Systems contains 15 questions.
Yes. Piping Systems contains ten questions. The 2021 International Fuel Gas Code is an approved reference.
Yes. Air Conditioning includes ten scored questions, and Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, 22nd Edition, is an approved trade reference.
Testing and Inspection contains ten scored questions.
Approved Reference Books
The currently published PSI Ohio HVAC trade reference is the 2024 Ohio Mechanical Code.
The current PSI bulletin lists the 2021 International Fuel Gas Code.
The 22nd Edition is listed in the current PSI Ohio HVAC reference list.
No. Candidates must bring their own approved HVAC trade references.
Yes. PSI permits prior highlighting, underlining, and indexing, subject to reference inspection. Added papers and writing during the exam are prohibited.
Business and Law Examination
Yes. Ohio requires the Contractor's Business and Law examination in addition to the trade examination for its commercial contractor classifications.
There are 50 scored questions and five additional unscored pretest questions.
Candidates receive two hours, or 120 minutes.
The passing score is 70%, equal to 35 correct answers on the scored questions.
The current PSI bulletin identifies Contractor's Guide to Business, Law, and Project Management, Ohio, 4th Edition.
Yes. PSI provides the Ohio NASCLA 4th Edition at the testing center. Candidates may also bring an approved personal copy under current rules.
Application, Retesting, and Renewal
The published PSI bulletin identifies a one-year approval period.
The published PSI bulletin specifies a 60-day waiting period before retaking a failed portion.
Ohio contractor licensees generally must maintain at least $500,000 in contractor liability insurance.
The general requirement is ten approved hours annually. Eligible members of Ohio's Compliant Contractor Program have an eight-hour annual requirement or a qualifying triennial option.
No. EPA Section 608 is a separate federal refrigerant-handling certification. The Ohio HVAC Contractor license is issued through OCILB.
Contractor Exam Preps Study Products
Yes. Contractor Exam Preps offers the Ohio HVAC Contractor Online Exam Prep Course with technical HVAC review and exam-style preparation.
No. Candidates must obtain the three approved HVAC trade references separately unless their chosen product explicitly includes them.
Yes. The store lists Ohio NASCLA Contractor's Guide tabs and related Ohio licensing resources. Verify whether the product option includes the book or tabs only.
Yes. Its Ohio Contractor License Application Service provides application-related support. This is separate from exam instruction.
No. Study courses support learning and practice but cannot guarantee examination results, Board approval, or license issuance.
Watch this related 1ExamPrep HVAC training video about duct construction, reference navigation, technical study, and contractor examination preparation.
The video introduces HVAC Duct Construction Standards, Metal and Flexible, through a short course sample.
Air distribution is directly relevant to Ohio because Warm Air Heating and Air Distribution is the largest trade examination category.
Exam-room reminder: This duct standards publication is supplementary study material, not one of the three approved Ohio HVAC trade books in the current PSI bulletin.
Creator: 1ExamPrep.
Video topic: HVAC Duct Construction Standards, Metal and Flexible, course sample.
Related Ohio subject: Warm Air Heating and Air Distribution.
Ohio trade exam: 100 scored questions, ten pretest items, 240 minutes, 70% passing.
Official Ohio references: 2024 Ohio Mechanical Code, 2021 IFGC, and Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, 22nd Edition.
Use Ohio OCILB and PSI for current licensing and examination rules. Use Contractor Exam Preps for related courses, application support, Ohio Business and Law materials, and training resources.
Ohio HVAC: 100 scored questions, ten pretest items, four hours, 70% passing.
HVAC reference books: 2024 Ohio Mechanical Code, 2021 IFGC, Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, 22nd Edition.
Business and Law: 50 scored questions, five pretest items, two hours, 70% passing.
Store study: Ohio HVAC Online Course and Ohio NASCLA business materials.
Official information: Follow OCILB and PSI for licensing and examination updates.
Preparing for the Ohio HVAC Contractor examination is an important step for experienced heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning professionals who want to qualify for statewide commercial contractor licensing.
Ohio regulates commercial HVAC contracting through the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board.
The Board is commonly called OCILB.
It operates under the Ohio Department of Commerce.
HVAC contractors install, maintain, repair, fabricate, alter, and extend qualifying heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning systems.
These systems can include equipment, ducts, piping, insulation, and related components.
They help keep commercial buildings comfortable and functioning properly.
HVAC contractors need to understand more than equipment operation.
They also need to know building codes, installation requirements, system testing, ventilation, fuel gas, safety, and business responsibilities.
Ohio applicants must meet licensing eligibility requirements before testing.
The standard experience route generally requires five years of qualifying HVAC trade work immediately before applying.
Applicants must be at least eighteen years old.
They must also satisfy the state's applicable legal status, professional conduct, insurance, and documentation requirements.
Ohio recognizes certain alternative qualification pathways.
An Ohio-registered engineer with qualifying business experience may be eligible under a statutory alternative.
The Board reviews the application before approving an examination candidate.
Approved candidates must complete federal and state background checks before testing.
PSI administers the Ohio HVAC Contractor trade examination.
The current official bulletin lists 100 scored questions.
There are also ten additional unscored pretest items.
These items do not count toward the final examination score.
Candidates have four hours to complete the trade examination.
The required passing score is 70%.
That means candidates must answer at least 70 of the 100 scored questions correctly.
The examination is open book.
Candidates may use the three approved HVAC trade references.
Those references are the Ohio Mechanical Code, 2024; International Fuel Gas Code, 2021; and Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, 22nd Edition.
Candidates must supply their own copies.
References may be highlighted, underlined, and indexed before the examination.
Writing in books during testing is not permitted.
Additional loose or attached papers are prohibited.
Understanding how to navigate these books can make a major difference during examination preparation.
The HVAC trade examination contains seven scored subject areas.
General Knowledge and Requirements includes ten questions.
Warm Air Heating and Air Distribution includes 25 questions.
Ventilation and Exhaust Systems includes fifteen questions.
Air Conditioning includes ten questions.
Piping Systems includes ten questions.
Equipment and Appliances includes twenty questions.
Testing and Inspection includes ten questions.
These categories total 100 scored questions.
Warm Air Heating and Air Distribution is the largest subject.
It covers heating equipment, air handling, supply and return systems, ducts, airflow, sizing, and related code requirements.
Equipment and Appliances is the second-largest subject.
It covers installation details, equipment safety, accessibility, working clearances, operating controls, and manufacturer instructions.
Together, these two subjects account for forty-five scored questions.
That is nearly half of the examination.
Students should study these topics regularly.
Ventilation and Exhaust Systems is another significant subject.
It includes outdoor air, exhaust fans, ducts, terminations, makeup air, and specialized exhaust applications.
Air Conditioning covers cooling systems and refrigeration principles.
Students should understand the compressor, condenser, expansion device, and evaporator.
They should also understand the role of airflow and condensate removal.
Piping Systems includes fuel-gas piping, valves, regulators, sizing, combustion air, and venting.
The International Fuel Gas Code is important for this part of preparation.
Testing and Inspection covers startup, verification, mechanical equipment testing, and inspections.
These subjects are useful in everyday HVAC work as well as on the examination.
Ohio also requires a separate Contractor's Business and Law examination.
It contains 50 scored questions and five unscored pretest items.
Candidates have two hours.
The passing score is 70%.
The examination covers business organization, licensing, estimating, bidding, contracts, project management, insurance, bonding, workplace regulations, finance, taxes, and lien laws.
The main approved reference is Contractor's Guide to Business, Law, and Project Management, Ohio, 4th Edition.
PSI provides that book during the Business and Law examination.
Candidates may also use an approved personal copy under the current rules.
Ohio's licensing process continues after examination passage.
Contractors must maintain the required liability insurance and follow other licensing requirements.
The general minimum insurance amount is $500,000.
Local registration, permits, and inspections may also apply.
Ohio requires continuing education for contractor license renewal.
The general requirement is ten approved hours annually.
Qualifying licensees in the Compliant Contractor Program may use a reduced eight-hour annual requirement.
Some qualified contractors may renew on a three-year schedule with 24 approved hours.
Contractor Exam Preps offers an Ohio HVAC Contractor Online Exam Prep Course.
The course supports preparation through heating, ventilation, cooling, ductwork, mechanical-code topics, fuel-gas review, and practice questions.
The store also offers Ohio NASCLA reference tabs for Business and Law preparation.
For applicants who need help organizing paperwork, an Ohio Contractor License Application Service is available separately.
These products can support study and preparation.
They do not replace government licensing requirements or guarantee examination passage.
A six-week study plan can help organize the work.
Start with the PSI bulletin and approved references.
Study warm-air heating and distribution first.
Continue with equipment, ventilation, and exhaust.
Then review air conditioning, fuel-gas piping, testing, and inspections.
Prepare separately for Business and Law.
Finish with timed practice examinations and review of incorrect answers.
With field experience, organized study, correct code references, and consistent practice, candidates can approach the Ohio HVAC Contractor examinations with greater confidence.
Ohio HVAC Contractor Exam Prep helps heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning professionals prepare for the state's commercial HVAC contractor licensing process.
The statewide credential is issued through the Ohio Construction Industry Licensing Board.
The Board is commonly known as OCILB.
Ohio licenses commercial contractors in HVAC, Electrical, Hydronics, Plumbing, and Refrigeration.
The HVAC Contractor license applies to qualifying heating, ventilating, and air-conditioning work.
Contractors may install, maintain, repair, fabricate, alter, or extend HVAC systems within the permitted scope.
These systems can involve heating equipment, cooling equipment, ducts, piping, insulation, and related components.
Applicants must satisfy the state's licensing requirements before testing.
The standard experience route requires at least five years of qualifying trade experience immediately before the application.
Applicants must be at least eighteen years old.
Ohio also recognizes certain alternative qualification routes.
Applicants should check the current law and Board instructions before submitting experience records.
OCILB reviews applications and authorizes qualified candidates to take the examination.
Approved candidates must complete the required state and federal background checks.
PSI administers the examinations.
The Ohio HVAC trade examination contains 100 scored questions.
It also includes ten additional unscored pretest items.
The unscored items do not affect the final score.
Candidates are allowed four hours.
The passing requirement is 70%.
This means at least 70 correct answers on the scored portion.
The HVAC trade exam is open book.
The current PSI reference list contains three main publications.
The first is the Ohio Mechanical Code, 2024.
The second is the International Fuel Gas Code, 2021.
The third is Modern Refrigeration and Air Conditioning, 22nd Edition.
Candidates must bring their approved trade references.
They may highlight, underline, and index the books before testing.
They may not write in the books during the examination.
Additional loose or attached papers are not permitted.
The HVAC examination includes seven subject areas.
General Knowledge and Requirements contains ten questions.
Warm Air Heating and Air Distribution contains 25 questions.
Ventilation and Exhaust Systems contains fifteen questions.
Air Conditioning contains ten questions.
Piping Systems contains ten questions.
Equipment and Appliances contains twenty questions.
Testing and Inspection contains ten questions.
All seven subjects total 100 scored questions.
Warm Air Heating and Air Distribution is the largest area.
It includes heating systems, air handlers, ductwork, airflow, and related code requirements.
Students should understand supply air, return air, duct sizing, and static pressure.
Equipment and Appliances is another major subject.
It includes equipment installation, service access, safety controls, clearances, and proper operation.
Ventilation and Exhaust Systems covers outdoor air, air movement, exhaust ducts, terminations, and makeup air.
Air Conditioning includes refrigeration cycle principles and cooling equipment.
Students should review compressors, condensers, evaporators, expansion devices, heat pumps, and condensate disposal.
Piping Systems includes fuel-gas piping, regulators, valves, fittings, pipe sizing, testing, and venting.
The 2021 International Fuel Gas Code helps candidates prepare for these topics.
General Knowledge includes basic trade principles, mechanical-code rules, and equipment safety.
Testing and Inspection covers startup procedures, mechanical system checks, and code compliance.
Students should practice all seven subjects, even if some categories contain fewer questions.
Ohio's HVAC Contractor license process also requires the Contractor's Business and Law examination.
The Business and Law examination contains 50 scored questions.
There are five additional unscored pretest items.
The examination lasts two hours.
The passing requirement is 70%.
The Business and Law subjects include business organization, licensing, estimating, bidding, contract management, project management, insurance, bonding, OSHA record keeping, personnel regulations, financial management, taxes, and liens.
The main approved reference is Contractor's Guide to Business, Law, and Project Management, Ohio, 4th Edition.
PSI provides this book at the examination center.
Candidates may bring an approved personal copy according to current test rules.
The published PSI examination registration fee is $69 per registration.
OCILB examination authorization is valid for one year under the current bulletin.
After failing an examination portion, a candidate must observe the applicable retesting waiting period.
The bulletin identifies a sixty-day waiting period.
Exam passage is not the final licensing requirement.
Contractors must also maintain required insurance and complete the state's license issuance steps.
The standard minimum contractor liability coverage is $500,000.
Other state or local requirements may apply.
Ohio's contractor continuing education rules generally require ten hours annually.
The Compliant Contractor Program can reduce that to eight annual hours for qualified participants.
Federal EPA Section 608 certification is a separate requirement for regulated refrigerant work.
It is not the same as an Ohio HVAC Contractor license.
Contractor Exam Preps offers an Ohio HVAC Contractor Online Exam Prep Course.
The course covers heating, ventilation, cooling, duct systems, mechanical-code concepts, fuel gas, and examination strategies.
The store also offers Ohio NASCLA Contractor's Guide tabs to support Business and Law reference organization.
Applicants needing help with paperwork can review the Ohio Contractor License Application Service.
Application support and exam preparation are separate services.
Candidates should study using the three exact PSI-approved HVAC references.
Practice reading questions, locating code rules, performing calculations, and checking the correct answer.
A six-week study plan can provide structure.
The first week can focus on the exam bulletin and mechanical code.
The second can focus on warm-air heating, airflow, and distribution.
The third can cover equipment, appliances, and controls.
The fourth can focus on ventilation, exhaust, air conditioning, and refrigeration.
The fifth can cover fuel-gas piping and Business and Law.
The sixth can focus on full timed simulations.
Strong preparation combines practical field knowledge, proper reference books, exam-style practice, and understanding of Ohio's contractor licensing obligations.
With that approach, candidates can study more effectively and pursue the Ohio HVAC Contractor license with greater confidence.
Explore Ohio HVAC training, contractor Business and Law reference materials, licensing support, and trade exam preparation at ContractorExamPreps.com.
