Become an HVAC Technician in California

There are a few things you’ll need to know to become an HVAC technician in California, but we’ll walk you through the requirements.

Qualifications to Become an HVAC Technician

In order to become an HVAC technician in California, you will need to complete a vocational or trade school program. The programs will give you the skills you need to work on heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. You will also need to complete on-the-job training.

HVAC Technician Licensing and/or Certification Requirements in California

The California Contractors State License Board (CSLB) oversees the licensing of HVAC technicians. 

License – C-20 Warm Air Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning Contractor License

To get an HVAC license in California – C-20 Warm Air Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning Contractor License – you must be at least 18 years of age, complete an HVAC education program with on-the-job training or have four years of journeyman experience.

You must also apply for the Original Contractors License C-20 specialty and pay all fees with the CSLB.

Certification 

Getting certified is the next step. While a license is required to work as a technician, a certification can make you stand out and will get you more job opportunities. After completing the educational portion, which typically includes a combination of classroom learning and on-site experience, you will need to take an exam for certification. 

The exam will vary depending on the type of system you are certifying in, but it typically contains topics such as installation, ventilation, cooling, and troubleshooting. 

EPA 608 Certification 

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) 608 Certification is required for all HVAC technicians in California if you’re working with or handling refrigerants. This certification ensures that technicians have the proper training and qualifications to work on refrigeration systems and comply with federal regulations.

To obtain the Section 608 certification, you must pass a written exam that tests your knowledge of federal regulations and state laws. You must also be able to demonstrate competency with refrigerant handling, installation, and maintenance. 

EPA Certification Types:

1. Type I: for servicing small appliances.
2. Type II: for servicing or disposing of high- or very high-pressure appliances, except small appliances and MVACs.
3. Type III: for servicing or disposing of low-pressure appliances.
4. Universal: for servicing all types of equipment (Universal).

Exempt from the EPA certification requirements are apprentices so long as they are supervised by a certified technician.

North American Technician Excellence (NATE)

Although not required, the North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification can help open doors for better and higher paid HVAC tech jobs.

To become certified, you’ll need to pass both the Core and Specialty exams. The Core exam tests your knowledge of safety protocols and basic procedures, while the Specialty exam is designed to measure your knowledge of a specific aspect of HVAC such as air conditioners or heat pumps. 

HVAC Excellence Certification

The credential offered through the HVAC Excellence organization covers the installation, service, and repair of heating and cooling systems. Having this certification is what will set you apart from other technicians.

How to Find the Best School to Become an HVAC Technician

To get your HVAC license, you either need at least 4 years of journeyman experience or successfully complete an HVAC training program with one year practical experience under the supervision of a licensed technician.

To find the right vocational school do your due diligence and look into several schools before enrolling. The cost of HVAC training can start at $1,200 to around $15,000. There are financial options available such as grants and aids if you qualify.

Visit the schools’ websites or social media pages to get a better feel for their programs and offerings. You should also see if they are accredited by any trade organizations, as this will add credibility to their curriculum.

How Much Does it Cost to Become an HVAC Technician?

HVAC Tech Vocational Training

• HVAC certificate program: $1,200 – $15,000
• HVAC associate degree: $15,000 – $35,000

Source: Delta Technical College

License and Certification Fees

C-20 Warm Air Heating, Ventilating, and Air Conditioning Contractor License

• Original application fee: $450
• Initial license fee: $200 (sole owner); $350 (non sole owner)

For more info on fees, visit the CSLB site.

The next item on your list is certification. This will vary depending on the program you choose. There may be fees associated with specific certifications, but these are typically minimal.

How Long Does it Take to Get a License and/or Certified?

Once you’ve completed the educational and/or journeyman experience requirements, it’s time to apply for a C-20 HVAC license. This can be done online, but you will need to pass a competency examination in order to be certified as an HVAC technician in the state.

The length of time it will take to process your application and complete your exam depends on the area you are in, but you should expect at least four years before your license is finalized. 

How Much Do HVAC Technicians Make in California? 

The amount you make as an HVAC technician in California will vary depending on your experience, the company you work for, and whether you are a union member or not.

On average, an HVAC technician can expect to make around $29.00 per hour or $58,000 per year. On the low end, you can make $35,000 and on the top end around $94,000.

What are the General Job Responsibilities of an HVAC Tech?

As an HVAC technician, your main job responsibilities will be to install, maintain and repair heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems in both businesses and residences. This includes tasks such as:

• Inspecting HVAC systems to identify problems or malfunctions
• Repairing or replacing defective parts of systems
• Testing systems to make sure they are functioning correctly
• Making adjustments and calibrations to ensure optimal performance
• Cleaning and servicing systems to prevent wear and tear

Job Outlook for HVAC Technicians

The job outlook is positive if you’re looking to become an HVAC licensed contractor. HVAC technician jobs are projected to grow 5 percent between 2021 and 2031. This growth is attributed to the increasing popularity of heating and cooling systems that are becoming more energy-efficient and more complex.

This is good news for anyone considering a career as an HVAC technician. It means that there may be plenty of job opportunities in the years to come. 

Benefits of Becoming an HVAC Technician

There are many great benefits to consider. For one, it’s a trade that typically has year-round work. In addition, the salary can be high and your earnings potential is virtually unlimited.

HVAC technicians often have flexible hours and can make their own schedules since most of their work is done in customers’ homes or businesses during regular working hours or after hours. This allows you to maintain a healthy work-life balance, while still being able to enjoy the rewards of being an HVAC technician in California.

Conclusion

So, if you’re interested in a career as an HVAC technician, California is a great place to be. The state offers ample opportunities for HVAC technicians, and with the right training and experience, you can find a great job in this field.