Wisconsin Refrigerant-Handler Certification

Under Wisconsin state law, a refrigerant handling license is mandatory for any worker who repairs appliances that use coolants like refrigerators, or heating and cooling systems. The Wisconsin Office of Safety and Professional Services is responsible for the state's refrigerant-handling licensing program.

EPA Card

Title 40, Volume 14 of the Federal Code of Regulations imposes nationwide licensing requirements for refrigerant handlers. Under the law, everyone who handles refrigerant in their work must take an examination developed by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The EPA approves specific institutions, associations and schools to administer the test and has a hot line for candidates to locate the exams nearest them. Among the approved exam providers in Wisconsin are the Air Conditioning Contractors of America and the Refrigeration Service Engineers Society. Candidates who achieve at least a 70 percent score on the examination receive an EPA card, which is a prerequisite for the Wisconsin license.

State Exam

All prospective refrigerant handlers in Wisconsin must pass a state examination. This test assesses handlers' familiarity with laws governing the handling of coolants and refrigerants that are imposed by Wisconsin. The exams are given at least twice per year in four locations: Perwaukee, Green Bay, La Crosse and Eau Claire. The test is multiple-choice and is closed-book, meaning candidates cannot use any reference materials to answer the questions.

Application

All prospective refrigerant handlers in Wisconsin must complete an application prior to taking the examination. This form is available for download from the Wisconsin Office of Safety and Professional Services' website. The application requests candidates' contact and identifying information, such as their Social Security number and address. Along with the application, candidates must provide a copy of their EPA cards and pay a fee, which was $35 as of September 2011.

Renewal

Once issued, a refrigerant-handling license in Wisconsin remains valid for four years. Prior to the expiration of their licenses, workers will receive a renewal form from the Department of Safety and Professional Services Safety and Buildings Division of Credential Renewal in the mail. The form requests that candidates update their personal information and provide a copy of their EPA card. There is a renewal fee of $20. The EPA card does not expire.

References

• Wisconsin Department of Commerce-Credentialing: Licensing
• Government Printing Office: Technician Certification
• Wisconsin Office of Safety and Professional Services: S&B Refrigeration Systems Program
• Wisconsin Office of Safety and Professional Services: Application
• Wisconsin Department of Commerce-Credentialing: Licensing Renewal

Resources

• Department of Safety and Professional Services Safety and Buildings Division Credential Renewal: Log in