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Train for a skilled job

HVAC technician: how to get hired

Train at a school for about 6 months to 2 years, or earn while you learn in an apprenticeship. This page is the path: license rules, the EPA certification every technician needs, and where to apply.

  • 5 steps, each with the official page
  • Reviewed 2026-10-19

Start with step 1See open jobs

At a glance

$61,010median pay per year ($29.33 an hour), May 2025
40,600openings per year on average, 2025–35
11%projected job growth, 2025–35
EPA 608refrigerant certification required for nearly all technicians

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Outlook Handbook: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers , checked 2026-10-19

What the work involves

  • Install, maintain and repair heating, cooling and refrigeration systems
  • Install electrical parts and wiring
  • Inspect and test systems
  • Explain problems to customers
  • Replace worn or faulty parts

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Outlook Handbook: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers , checked 2026-10-19

Your step-by-step plan

The same steps apply in every state. Every button opens the exact page where you act.

  1. Step 1: Check your state and city license rules

    Some states and localities require an HVAC license. Search "HVAC" or "refrigeration" and your state in the License Finder.

    Done when: You know whether your state or city requires a license, and from which agency.

  2. Step 2: Get free local help and ask about training money

    Before you pay for an HVAC program, contact your nearest American Job Center. It is the U.S. Department of Labor's free local network for job search help, referrals and placement. Services vary by state, so ask directly whether training funds are available to you.

    Have ready: Your ZIP code · Your work history in a few lines · Your weekly hours free for training

    Done when: You have an appointment date, or a written answer about training funds.

  3. Step 3: Choose your route: school or paid apprenticeship

    Technical schools and community colleges offer HVACR programs of about 6 months to 2 years. Apprenticeships last several years and pay you while you learn. Ask any school whether its program includes the EPA certification exam.

    Have ready: High school diploma or GED · Your weekly hours free for class

    Done when: You have a written start date from a school or an apprenticeship.

  4. Step 4: Pass the EPA Section 608 certification

    EPA requires nearly all HVAC technicians to be certified to handle refrigerants. You pass an EPA-approved test from an approved certifying program; Universal certification covers all equipment types. Some programs test online.

    Done when: You hold your Section 608 certification card from the certifying program (EPA does not issue cards).

  5. Step 5: Apply and prepare for the call

    Plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors employ about 68% of HVAC technicians. Apply on contractors' own sites, then practise the interview questions on this page.

    Done when: You have applied to every matching opening within your commute, and noted each date.

Finish line

You are now waiting for the school or apprenticeship to confirm your start, and contractors to invite you to interview. Keep your EPA card safe — employers ask to see it.

Certification and licensing

RuleWhat is requiredOfficial source
EPA 608Technicians who service equipment that could release refrigerants must pass an EPA-approved test from an approved certifying organization.U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
State or citySome states and localities require a license; check yours.U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Your stateSearch "HVAC" and your state to see the license and agency.CareerOneStop, U.S. Department of Labor

Rules differ between cities in the same state: check both your state and your city.

Where the jobs are

68%plumbing, heating and air-conditioning contractors
6%self-employed
3%wholesale trade
3%educational services

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics — Occupational Outlook Handbook: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers , checked 2026-10-19

Titles to search on any job site: HVAC technician, HVAC apprentice, HVAC installer helper.

Open jobs now

See every matching job

Interview questions to practise

JoRoute practice questions. Answer each with one real example.

A customer's AC is blowing warm air. How do you start?

They are listening for: A step-by-step check, safety first, and clear words to the customer.

Why does refrigerant handling need certification?

They are listening for: That you respect the EPA rules and the reason behind them.

Tell me about a time you explained a problem to someone who was upset.

They are listening for: One real example: what happened, what you did, what changed.

How do you keep track of parts and time on a job?

They are listening for: Organisation and honest records.

Are you ready for on-call, attic and summer-heat work?

They are listening for: That you understand the conditions and still want the work.

Practise in Interview Studio STAR answer guide

Sources

Rules and pay change. Confirm with your state before you pay for training. Reviewed 2026-10-19. This page is general information, not legal or tax advice.