Becoming a certified HVAC technician requires demonstrating in-depth knowledge, technical skills, and practical skills. The certification process involves passing a test of general HVAC knowledge and at least one specialized installation or service exam. The National Air Conditioning Technician (NATE) certification is awarded in areas such as air conditioning, gas or oil heating, air distribution, air-to-air heat pumps, geothermal (geothermal) heat pumps, and the efficiency of air conditioning systems. To be a commercial HVAC contractor in South Carolina or a residential HVAC contractor, you must have a state license.
In addition to the training they receive through an air conditioning program, future air conditioning professionals are encouraged to seek other training materials, simulations, and practical exams to prepare for certification. After working on a job site for 24 months under the supervision of an authorized contractor, Texas HVAC technicians can choose to become certified ACR technicians by completing a 2,000-hour HVAC certification program. The organization also offers the CRST (Refrigeration Services Technician Certificate) and CRES (Refrigeration Energy Specialist Certificate) exams for HVAC technicians specialized in industrial refrigeration. Kansas does not have a state board and does not require licenses from trainees, technicians, or HVAC contractors at the state level.
However, HVAC technicians who routinely handle refrigerants for HVAC systems must be 608 certified by the Environmental Protection Agency. After completing a training program for HVAC trainees (and earning a salary while you train) and paying an application fee, many states offer class A or B HVAC contractor licenses for officers. Other states require specialized licenses for air conditioning and cooling systems, solar energy, and other energy systems. North Dakota does not require statewide licenses for trainees, technicians, or HVAC contractors.
The Air Conditioning Contractors of America (ACCA) manages the HVAC Installation Quality (QI) standard which is one of the most important professional and technical organizations in the HVAC industry. If you're considering a career in the HVAC industry, you'll be happy to know that HVAC technicians are still in high demand. Nevada does not require licenses for HVAC technicians, installers, or trainees. However, it does require a Nevada contractor license for HVAC contractors or contractors who perform work related to HVAC.
To become an HVAC technician in Illinois and prepare to sit for the EPA certification exams, you can attend a community college (usually two years) or a trade school (usually six to nine months) or work as an apprentice at an HVAC company and receive hands-on training. South Dakota does not require licensing of trainees, technicians, or HVAC contractors at the state level. However, some municipalities require local HVAC licenses or certifications to work on HVAC systems. When you hire an HVAC technician for your residential or commercial project, you want to make sure that the person who will be working on your HVAC equipment is trained and has the necessary knowledge.
In Vermont there is no requirement for an HVAC technician to have a license. However, the state does require a contractor's license for specific specialized trades such as an electrical specialist license for those who work with propane, natural gas, oil and air conditioning and refrigeration units.
