How to Become an HVAC Technician
HVAC (heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration) is a fast-growing trade with strong pay and year-round demand. You can break in through a trade-school program or a paid apprenticeship. Here’s the path, the certifications you’ll need, and what you’ll earn.
Take the free HVAC aptitude practice testWhat does an HVAC technician do?
HVAC techs install, maintain, and repair heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems in homes and commercial buildings. The job blends hands-on mechanical work with electrical troubleshooting, airflow and refrigerant calculations, and reading technical schematics — which is why programs test math and mechanical aptitude before they enroll you.
Steps to become an HVAC technician
A common path: (1) finish high school or a GED, (2) complete an HVAC trade-school certificate or associate program (typically 6 months–2 years) or enter an apprenticeship, (3) earn your EPA Section 608 certification (federally required to handle refrigerants), (4) gain field experience as an apprentice/helper, and (5) pursue further certifications (NATE, state license where required) to advance.
Requirements and how long it takes
You’ll need to be 18+, have a high school diploma or GED, and pass the EPA 608 exam to work with refrigerants. A trade-school route can get you working in under a year; a full apprenticeship runs 3–5 years but pays you the whole time. Many techs combine a short program with on-the-job training.
Trade school vs. apprenticeship
Trade school is faster and gives you a credential and the knowledge to pass EPA 608, but costs tuition. An apprenticeship pays you while you learn and ends debt-free, though spots are competitive. Either way you’ll need real field experience — and the EPA 608 certification is non-negotiable for refrigerant work.
How much do HVAC technicians make?
The median HVAC mechanic and installer earned $59,810 per year as of May 2024 (BLS). Pay climbs with certifications and specialization — commercial refrigeration, controls, and service techs who can diagnose quickly tend to earn the most, and demand for HVAC techs is projected to grow faster than average.
See where you stand — free
Take the free HVAC aptitude practice test — same format programs use, instant results, no signup to start.
Start the practice test →Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to become an HVAC tech?
A trade-school certificate can take 6 months to 2 years; a paid apprenticeship runs 3–5 years. You also need to pass the EPA 608 certification to handle refrigerants.
Do you need a license to do HVAC?
You need EPA 608 certification everywhere to handle refrigerants. Many states also require an HVAC contractor or technician license — requirements vary by state.
Is there an entrance test for HVAC programs?
Many programs and apprenticeships use an entrance aptitude test covering math, reading, and mechanical reasoning. Try a free practice version below.
More free practice tests on the practice tests hub.