Thirty-six states license HVAC sheet metal contractors working on residential properties. On average, states require close to three years (1,026 days) of education and experience, $384 in fees, and about two exams. All in all, 31 require at least one exam (New Mexico requires four). These requirements rank as the ninth most burdensome.

Twenty-six states license non-HVAC sheet metal contractors working on commercial properties. Twelve states require between two and five years of experience working under a licensed contractor. Alabama and Mississippi require completion of three contracted jobs. Twelve states require no experience. On average, states require 567 days of education and experience, $360 in fees ($1,078 in Nevada), and one exam. These high barriers give commercial non-HVAC sheet metal contractors the 21st most burdensome requirements of the 102 occupations studied.