Interested in solving problems and keen to learn how to become an AC technician? Look no further! A career as an HVAC technician in Texas might be just what you're seeking. This rewarding job offers daily problem-solving tasks and a straightforward path to certification. Let's walk you through the steps of getting your HVAC certification and becoming a certified HVAC technician in Texas!

Key Points:

• HVAC technicians are in charge of setting up, maintaining, and fixing heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems.
• To become an HVAC technician in Texas, you generally need a high school diploma or its equivalent. You'll also need to finish a training program or apprenticeship. Once you've done that, you'll need to get the right license for the type of work you want to do. Lastly, you'll need to pass background checks and meet other legal requirements.
• An HVAC training program blends classroom learning with hands-on experience. It covers a wide range of interesting subjects like Electrical skills, HVAC electrical controls, Diagnostic techniques, and more!
• As of May 2023, the average annual salary for an HVAC technician in Texas is $54,640, as reported by the Bureau of Labor Statistics.

What is an HVAC Technician?

HVAC technicians are responsible for the installation, maintenance, and repair of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. They diagnose issues, perform routine maintenance, and ensure the efficient and safe operation of these systems.

Where Does an HVAC Technician Work?

HVAC technicians can find employment in a variety of settings, including residential homes, commercial buildings, industrial facilities, and even transportation systems like trains and airplanes.

How to Become an HVAC Technician in Texas? What are the requirements to Become an HVAC Technician in Texas?

1. Register with the State: If you're planning to work as a Registered Technician, which means working under a licensed contractor as an A/C and Refrigeration technician in Texas, you must first register with the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation. This branch of the government is also responsible for issuing and renewing all HVAC licenses in Texas. To register, you need to submit an online application and pay a $20 registration fee.

2. Gain Experience: For further advancement of your career and to become a Certified Technician, you'll need to gain work experience. This may involve working on a job site under the supervision of a licensed contractor for at least 24 months.

3. Get Certified: After gaining the necessary experience, you have the option to become a Certified ACR Technician. This requires completing a 2,000-hour certification program approved by the Texas Department of Licensing & Regulation and paying a $50 application fee.

Alternatively, if you choose not to become a Certified ACR Technician, you must complete 48 months of job site experience under the supervision of a licensed contractor.

4. Apply for a License: Once you've fulfilled the work experience requirements, you can apply for a Texas ACR Contractor License. You must be at least 18 years old to apply.

In Texas, there are two types of HVAC contractor licenses: Class A and Class B.

1. Class A license: This allows you to work on any size unit, without any restrictions.

2. Class B license: This permits you to work on cooling systems of up to 25 tons and heating systems of up to 1.5 million BTUs/hour.

In addition, Texas offers three endorsements that can be added to an ACR contractor license. These are Environmental Air Conditioning, Commercial Refrigeration, and Process Cooling or Heating endorsements. They are optional and will allow you to specialize in specific areas of HVAC work. Each license may have only one endorsement.

5. Take the Licensing Exam: Depending on the license class and endorsements you choose, you'll be required to take a licensing exam. This will determine the type of work you can perform and the insurance coverage you must maintain.

6. Provide Proof of Insurance: After passing the licensing exam, you must submit a Certificate of Insurance verifying that you have the necessary commercial general liability insurance coverage. The minimum insurance coverage required is based on whether you have a Class A or Class B license.

7. Pass background checks: The TX Department of Licensing and Regulation conducts a criminal history background check on all persons who apply for a license. You must pass a criminal history check by providing a Criminal History Questionnaire if you’ve ever been convicted or pleaded guilty to a criminal offense.

8. EPA Section 608 Certification: Don't forget, you also need to get your EPA Certification! The EPA Certification is a federal requirement for all HVAC professionals who handle refrigerants. There are four types of certifications you can get, depending on the type of work you want to do.

   The EPA Certification is a federal requirement for all HVAC technicians across the country. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires this certification for anyone who handles refrigerants, which are substances used in air conditioning systems. There are four types of EPA Certifications, each allowing for different levels of work with refrigerants.

• Type I: For servicing small appliances with less than five pounds of refrigerant.
• Type II: For servicing high-pressure units with five pounds or more of refrigerant.
• Type III: For servicing or disposing of low-pressure appliances.
• Universal: This covers all systems and appliances, making you a jack-of-all-trades in the refrigerant world.
• Core Exam: This is a part of the EPA certification process. It covers topics like ozone depletion, the Clean Air Act, refrigeration, safety, and shipping among others. You must pass this exam regardless of the type of EPA certification you're pursuing.

How Much Does It Cost to Get an HVAC License in Texas?

The cost of HVAC training depends on the program you choose. The tuition costs you around $1,200 if you decide to get a certificate. If you want to pursue a higher level of education like a diploma or associate’s degree, the cost can be more or less $15,000.

As for licenses, the standard fee for an air conditioning and refrigeration license in Texas is $115. However, there are other costs to consider. Registering as a technician under a licensed contractor requires a $20 fee. If you choose to become a Certified ACR Technician, you'll need to complete a 2,000-hour certification program and pay a $50 application fee. So, all in all, you're looking at a total cost of around $185, not including the cost of the certification program.

Where Can I Find HVAC Technician Classes in Texas?

Dreambound, the largest platform for students to find and compare vocational training programs, can help you locate HVAC technician classes in Texas. Dreambound offers a comprehensive database of training programs, allowing you to search for options in your local area.

Exploring a Career in HVAC Technician Outside Texas

If you've been reading this article and long to become a HVAC Technician, but you live in a different state, don't lose hope – achieving your goal is still within reach. You might consider exploring opportunities to become a HVAC Technician in Georgia, Maine, Ohio, Virginia, or Wisconsin. If none of these locations work for you, Dreambound makes it easier than ever to pursue your dreams regardless of your location by simplifying the process of finding and comparing HVAC classes through a convenient search by zip code. With determination and access to the right resources, you can confidently pursue a successful career in trade, construction, and industry, no matter where you live.

How Do I Get My HVAC Technician Certification?

After completing your HVAC training program, you will need to obtain the necessary certifications, which may include EPA certification for handling refrigerants and any state-specific licenses or certifications required in Texas.

How Do I Get a Job as an HVAC Technician?

With your training and certifications, you can apply for entry-level HVAC technician positions with local HVAC companies, contractors, or even large corporations. Networking, internships, and job search platforms can all be valuable resources in your job search.

Career Paths and Opportunities after Becoming an HVAC Technician

As an HVAC technician, you can explore various career paths, such as specializing in residential or commercial systems, becoming a service manager, or even starting your own HVAC contracting business. The demand for skilled HVAC technicians is expected to remain strong in the coming years.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to get an HVAC license in Texas?

Becoming a licensed HVAC contractor in Texas takes a minimum of four years. During this time, you'll need to gain practical experience by working under a licensed ACR Contractor for at least 48 months within the last 72 months.

If you hold a Texas ACR Technician Certification, you can shorten this period to 36 months of practical experience within the last 48 months. Remember, while you're gaining this essential experience, you can work and earn as a registered technician under the supervision of a licensed contractor!

How many questions are on the Texas HVAC test?

In terms of the Texas HVAC Licensing Exam, it's a comprehensive test that covers topics such as boiler systems, HVAC systems, heating and cooling, ventilation, equipment requirements, and refrigeration systems and principles. For a Class A License, the exam consists of 120 questions with a time limit of four hours. For a Class B license exam, you have three hours to answer 100 questions. A minimum score of 70% is required to pass either exam.

What states recognize a Texas HVAC license?

At present, there are reciprocity agreements with South Carolina and Georgia when it comes to Texas HVAC licenses.

How often do you have to renew your HVAC license in Texas?

Remember, becoming an HVAC professional in Texas is not just about meeting the legal requirements. It's also about gaining the skills and experience needed to provide high-quality service to your clients. So, take each step seriously and strive to learn as much as you can along the way. Good luck! In Texas, if you're a Registered or Certified ACR Technician, you need to renew your HVAC license once a year and pay the necessary fee. But if you're an ACR contractor, you have to do a bit more than just renew your license online every year.

ACR contractors are required to complete eight hours of continuing education, including one hour of instruction. This continuing education must be completed before your license expires.

What state pays HVAC techs the most?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) data from May 2023, the District of Columbia tops the list with an average annual salary of $77,970. Alaska comes in second, where HVAC technicians earn an average of $75,660 annually. Massachusetts isn't far behind with an average annual salary of $75,190. Hawaii and Washington also offer competitive salaries, with HVAC technicians earning an average of $74,200 and $72,340 respectively.

It's important to note that these figures may have changed slightly since they were reported.

Final Thoughts

Becoming an HVAC technician in Texas can be a rewarding career path, offering job stability, competitive wages, and the opportunity to work with your hands in a dynamic field. By completing the necessary training and certifications, you can embark on a fulfilling career as an HVAC technician.

If you're considering a career shift or curious about different professional paths, Dreambound has written many guides to help you in making informed decisions. Here are a few:

• Electrician Training in Wyoming
• Welding Training in Wyoming
• Tower Technician Training in Wyoming
• Maintenance Technician Training in Wyoming
• Carpentry Training in Wyoming