Pensacola HVAC License Requirements (2026)

📋 Your checklist

State

1. Florida air-conditioning or mechanical contractor license (DBPR CILB)
   HVAC contracting needs a license in the right class: Class A air-conditioning (unlimited), Class B (up to 25 tons cooling / 500,000 Btu heating per system), or mechanical contractor.
   ⏰ Renew with DBPR each cycle, with continuing education (check the date on your license)
   Source: Florida Statutes §489.105 (contractor definitions) · Florida Statutes §489.115 (contractors must be certified or registered; renewals; CE)
2. Business name and entity filings (Sunbiz)
   LLCs and corporations file an annual report ($138.75 for an LLC). Using a name other than your legal name? Register it as a fictitious name.
   ⏰ Annual report: May 1 ($400 late fee). Fictitious name: renew every 5 years
   Source: Florida Division of Corporations: File Annual Report · Florida Statutes §865.09 (fictitious name registration)

Local (Pensacola / Escambia County)

1. City of Pensacola Business Tax Receipt
   Required for a permanent business location or branch office in the city.
   ⏰ Due no later than September 30 each year
   Source: City of Pensacola: Business Tax Receipts
2. Escambia County Business Tax Receipt
   Required to do business in Escambia County, including inside Pensacola. $26.25 per receipt ($13.13 for new applications April 1 to June 30).
   ⏰ Valid until September 30
   Source: Escambia County Tax Collector: FAQ