It can take more than a year to become an HVAC technician, but the actual timeline depends on where you live, the length of your training program, and your current level of education. You can speed up the process if you already have a high school diploma and choose to enroll in an HVAC certificate program. But your state’s licensing and apprenticeship requirements ultimately determine when you can get to work.

Earn a GED (3 months) before HVAC Training

If you don’t have a high school diploma, you need to earn a GED. Completing foundational courses like math and physics helps you prepare for HVAC training as the work requires knowledge of electrical systems, measurements, and problem solving. At some career training or trade schools, you can earn your GED while you attend your HVAC certification program, which can speed up the process.

Enroll in an HVAC Training Program (1 year)

With a diploma or GED, you meet the minimum qualifications to enroll in an HVAC technician training program. You can complete an HVAC certificate program in as few as 10 months, which includes classroom instruction and skills training. This program should provide training on the core topics related to HVAC maintenance and installation:

• HVAC science and electrical work
• Basic refrigeration and commercial refrigeration systems
• Residential and commercial air conditioning systems
• Gas and oil heating systems
• Blueprints and building codes
• Energy conservation and air quality
• Safety protocol

The knowledge and skills you gain from a training program are invaluable to your career—and they help you qualify for state licensure.

Pass the EPA Section 608 Certification Exam (1-4 weeks)

One of the final steps before you can begin your HVAC career is earning your EPA Section 608 certification. Most students prepare for and complete this certification exam within a few weeks, often while they are still enrolled in HVAC school. Because prep for the exam is often built into HVAC training programs, it usually does not add much extra time to your overall path toward becoming an HVAC technician.

The federal government requires all workers who handle refrigerants to pass the. This exam tests your knowledge of the Clean Air Act, which you learn about through your training program. There are four levels to this certification exam, which is usually taken before you graduate from HVAC school:

• Type I: Small Appliances
• Type II: High Pressure Systems
• Type III: Low Pressure Systems
• Universal: Covers all of the above

Most technicians choose the universal certification which allows you to work on all types of systems. Once you complete and pass the exam with a score of at least 70%, you receive your certification and can begin working with refrigerants professionally.

Earn an HVAC Associate Degree (2 years)

While it’s not required for entry-level roles in the HVAC field, you may decide that you want to earn an associate in applied technology degree to add to your knowledge and be more competitive in the workplace. While associate degrees typically take 2 years to complete, if you already have an HVAC certificate, you may be able to complete the degree more quickly.

Complete an HVAC Apprenticeship (1-4 years)

Some states require you to complete an apprenticeship program before you can apply for licensure. An apprenticeship is a paid work experience done under the guidance of a licensed and experienced HVAC technician. During an apprenticeship you practice the skills you learned in the classroom and observe how a seasoned professional would handle tricky installations, safety best practices, and customer interactions. For example, in the to earn a 06B limited/residential-focused HVAC electrical license and 4,000 hours for the more advanced 06A broader commercial and unrestricted HVAC electrical license. In the before you can apply for a C-20 Warm-Air Heating, Ventilating and Air-Conditioning Contractor license.

Apply for a License for HVAC Professionals (6-8 months)

The next step is to apply for your license, which can look different depending on where you work. You submit your application which often includes a fee, and an affidavit verifying your work experience. Some states require you to pass an additional state licensing exam. You can sit for this exam once you complete half of your apprenticeship, which can speed up the licensing process. After you pass your exam, your license is mailed to you within six weeks. Every three years, you must renew your license.

California is another example with unique licensing requirements. Here, you , pay a $450 fee, verify your apprenticeship, submit to a background check with fingerprint, and sit for their state exam.

Begin the HVAC Job Search

With a state license, you can begin to look for an entry-level job in HVAC. You can start by searching online job boards like or . You can also create a LinkedIn profile and search for jobs listed on that platform. LinkedIn also enables you to connect with other HVAC technicians and follow HVAC companies that could offer employment.

If you’re ready to begin a career in HVAC, contact Â鶹¹ÙÍø today. We offer a Certificate in HVAC/R that can be completed in as few as 10 months. Our instructors have years of experience in the field and know how to show you the pathway to licensure and employment. Call 888-200-9942 or fill out the form to learn more.