How to become an HVAC Technician

What the job is really like, school vs. apprenticeship, the certifications you need, and what it pays, from primary sources.

BLS median pay (May 2025): $61,010/year ($29.33/hour)
Lowest 10%: under $40,050 · Highest 10%: over $95,210
Jobs (2025): 440,900 · Projected growth 2025–35: 11% (much faster than average) · Openings per year: ~40,600
Source: BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers

The job

HVAC techs install, maintain and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning and refrigeration (HVACR) systems that control temperature, humidity and air quality. BLS lists duties such as installing electrical components and wiring, inspecting and testing systems, discussing malfunctions with customers, and replacing worn parts. Some specialize in radiant heating, testing and balancing, or commercial refrigeration.

The honest part: BLS says techs "often work in awkward or cramped spaces," sometimes in buildings that are uncomfortable because the system is broken, and that HVAC techs have one of the highest rates of injuries and illnesses of all occupations. Evening, weekend, on-call and peak-season overtime work happens.

Trade school vs. apprenticeship

Trade school: BLS says HVAC techs typically need postsecondary instruction from technical and trade schools or community colleges; programs "generally last from 6 months to 2 years" and lead to a certificate or associate's degree. New hires then work alongside experienced techs, starting with tasks like insulating refrigerant lines or cleaning furnaces.

Apprenticeship: some techs train through an apprenticeship that "usually lasts several years," combining paid on-the-job training with technical instruction each year. School can get you started faster; an apprenticeship pays while you learn.

Certifications and licensing

EPA Section 608. EPA regulations require technicians who maintain, service, repair or dispose of equipment that could release refrigerants to be certified by passing an EPA-approved test given by an EPA-approved certifying organization. There are four types: Type I (small appliances), Type II (high- or very high-pressure appliances), Type III (low-pressure appliances) and Universal. EPA says the credentials do not expire, and apprentices are exempt only while "closely and continually supervised by a certified technician." (EPA)

State/local licenses: some states and localities require an HVAC license; check CareerOneStop's license finder or your state board. Optional manufacturer and industry certifications exist, and you may need a driver's license.

Pay by industry

Industry (May 2025)Median annual wage
Wholesale trade$71,190
Retail trade$62,830
Educational services$62,520
Plumbing, heating, and A/C contractors$60,030

The median is the midpoint: half earned more, half less. BLS wage data excludes self-employed workers. Apprentices and new hires usually start below the median. For your area, see the BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics state and metro data.

How to start

  1. Look up your state's HVAC licensing rules (CareerOneStop).
  2. Compare local certificate programs and ask whether the EPA 608 exam is included.
  3. Search apprenticeship.gov for paid HVAC apprenticeships near you.
  4. Get a driver's license if you don't have one.

Sources

Checked October 17, 2026.