Trade Career Guide
How to Become an HVAC Technician
HVAC technicians install, maintain, and repair heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems in homes and commercial buildings.
Median salary
$59,810
per year · BLS May 2024
Typical range
$39,130–$91,020
~10th–90th percentile
Job outlook
+8%
2024–2034 · Much faster than average
Time to qualify
About 6 months to 2 years of training, plus EPA certification
Step-by-step: becoming an HVAC Technician
- 1
Earn a high school diploma or GED.
- 2
Complete an HVAC trade-school program or an apprenticeship.
- 3
Earn your EPA Section 608 certification to legally handle refrigerants.
- 4
Build hands-on experience through on-the-job training.
- 5
Pass any state or local HVAC licensing exam where it's required.
- 6
Consider NATE certification to raise your earning potential.
Typical entry path: Postsecondary nondegree award plus on-the-job training; EPA refrigerant certification required.
Ready to pass the EPA 608 & HVAC licensing exams?
The licensing exam is the gate to this career. Practice free on VoltExam with real exam-style questions and instant explanations — no signup to start.
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Salary and job-outlook figures from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers, SOC 49-9021; OEWS wages May 2024; Occupational Outlook Handbook projections 2024–2034). National medians; actual pay varies by location, employer, and experience. Verify current figures at bls.gov.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does an HVAC Technician make?
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), the median annual wage for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers is $59,810. Most earn between about $39,130 and $91,020 depending on experience, location, and specialization.
How do you become an HVAC Technician?
Earn a high school diploma or GED. Complete an HVAC trade-school program or an apprenticeship. Earn your EPA Section 608 certification to legally handle refrigerants. Build hands-on experience through on-the-job training. Pass any state or local HVAC licensing exam where it's required. Consider NATE certification to raise your earning potential.
What is the job outlook for an HVAC Technician?
The BLS projects 8% employment growth for Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers over 2024–2034 — much faster than average for all occupations.
What exam or license does an HVAC Technician need?
Most hvac technician roles require passing the EPA 608 & HVAC licensing exams. Typical entry path: Postsecondary nondegree award plus on-the-job training; EPA refrigerant certification required.