Texas is the 3rd highest state in the nation for HVAC employment. Getting certified for HVAC will generate lots of earning opportunities.
Education & Training
Consider an online certification course, like the ones below, to get started.
Program Benefits
The goal of the course is prepare you for the three top certifications in the field:
HVAC Excellence Professional Exam
NATE Core and Specialty Test
EPA 608 certification exam
What Will You Study?
The curriculum is quite substantial.
- Foundational Concepts of HVAC
- Safety, Equipment & Best Practices
- Controls
- Automatic control components
- DDCs (Direct Digital Controls)
- Pneumatics
- Troubleshooting
- Electric Motors
- Commercial Refrigeration
- Evaporators
- Condensers
- Compressors
- Expansion devices
- Ice machines
- Troubleshooting
- Air-Conditioning (Heating and Humidification)
- Heating types:
- Electric heat
- Gas heat
- Oil heat
- Hydronic heat
- Indoor Air quality
- Comfort
- Psychometrics
- Refrigeration applied to air-conditioning
- Air distribution
- Installation
- Energy auditing
- Troubleshooting
- Heating types:
- All-Weather Systems
- Heat pumps
- Residential Appliances
- Refrigerators
- Freezers
- Air conditioners
- Commercial Air Conditioning
- High-pressure systems
- Low-pressure systems
- Cooling towers
- On the Job Simulations
- Soft Skills
How Long Does it Take?
Since its an online, open enrollment course, you to start at your convenience and progress at your own speed. You have 12 months to complete the 330 hour course, but some finish it in as little as 9 months.
What Does it Cost?
As little as $151 per month with financing, while the total cost is $3100.
Other Local Trade School Programs
- Austin
- Fort Worth, Forest Hill
- Austin, Killeen
- Dallas
- Dallas
- Grand Prairie, Houston
- Denison, Van Alstyne,
- Houston, Missouri City, Stafford
- Pasadena, Houston
- San Antonio
- Grand Prairie
- Houston
- Houston
- Denton
- Forth Worth, Garland, Houston, Webster
- Arlington, San Antonio, Brownsville, Corpus Christi, McAllen
- Austin, Brownsville, Corpus Christi, Harlingen, Pharr, San Antonio, Waco
- Fort Worth
- Rosenberg, New Braunfels, Abilene, Hutto
- Houston
- Irving, Houston, Austin
- Arlington
- El Paso, Killeen, Beaumont, College Station, Longview, Lubbock
- Weatherford, Bridgeport
- Wharton, Richmond, Sugar Land, Bay City
Austin Career Institute (Rating: 4.8 out 5)
Austin Career Institute’s HVAC-R Technician Trade School offers a comprehensive program that covers the complexities of modern HVAC-R systems, preparing graduates for various certifications, including the TDLR Registered ACR Technician License and EPA License. The program provides hands-on training in installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of residential and commercial HVAC systems.
CLC, Inc (Rating: 4.9 out 5)
CLC, Inc.’s 10-week HVAC Training Program equips students with hands-on skills in system diagnostics, electrical components, safety, and repair techniques, all guided by an instructor with over 40 years of industry experience. Graduates earn the EPA 608 Universal Certification and are prepared for entry-level roles in residential, commercial, and automotive HVAC fields. The program costs $6,500, includes tools, and offers tuition assistance for those who qualify.
CyberTex (Rating: 4.2 out 5)
The HVAC program at CyberTex Institute of Technology's Killeen campus is an 11-month course offering day and evening classes, providing hands-on training and industry knowledge essential for a career in HVAC. Graduates are eligible for several certifications, including EPA-608, Green Awareness, System Performance, Duct and Envelope Testing, and various ESCO Group certifications, preparing them for roles in HVAC installation, service, and industrial refrigeration.
Dallas College (Rating: 2.4 out 5)
The Air Conditioning and Refrigeration Technology program in Texas offers multiple pathways, including an Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) degree, which takes four semesters to complete, and several certificates ranging from one to three semesters. Tuition varies by program, with the A.A.S. degree costing $5,940 and certificates ranging from $1,089 to $4,752. Graduates are equipped with the technical skills needed to maintain and repair HVAC systems, with training available at Cedar Valley, Eastfield, and North Lake campuses.
ForgeNow (Rating: 4.5 out 5)
ForgeNow’s HVAC Maintenance Technician program is a seven-week, hands-on training course designed to prepare students for careers in heating and air conditioning maintenance. The program combines classroom instruction with lab-based practice, covering EPA 608 certification prep, refrigeration, residential heating, and HVAC troubleshooting. Graduates have the opportunity to earn four nationally recognized industry certifications, equipping them with practical skills for entry-level technician roles.
FORTIS College (Rating: 4.3 out 5)
The Fortis HVAC program prepares students for entry-level roles as HVAC technicians through a blend of hands-on training and classroom instruction focused on installation, repair, and maintenance of heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Over the course of the program, students gain practical experience with computerized diagnostics, refrigeration, gas heat, and air conditioning systems, guided by experienced instructors. Graduates are equipped to handle real-world challenges in residential, commercial, or industrial settings, contributing to the comfort and safety of their communities.
Grayson College (Rating: 4.1 out 5)
Houston Community College (Rating: 3.8 out 5)
The Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration program at Houston Community College offers an Associate of Applied Science and Certificate Level 1, incorporating fundamentals and emerging technologies for efficient climate control systems. Graduates can earn certifications from the National Center for Construction and Education Research (NCCER), HVAC Excellence, NATE, and OSHA 10, preparing them for diverse career opportunities in HVAC and refrigeration with skills in safety, equipment maintenance, troubleshooting, and controls.
Interactive College of Technology (Rating: 4.2 out 5)
The Heating, Ventilation, and Air Conditioning (HVAC) Residential program at Pasadena, TX, and Newport, KY, offers comprehensive training in the repair and maintenance of residential HVAC systems, including EPA 608 and NATE certifications. Students gain 135 hours of real-life career training through an externship and receive lifetime career placement support after graduation, preparing them for entry-level apprenticeships and enhancing their employability with certifications valued by employers.
Lamson Institute (Rating: 3.5 out 5)
Lincoln Tech (Rating: 3.9 out 5)
Lincoln Tech’s HVAC program, available at multiple campuses, prepares students for careers in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning with hands-on training in advanced technologies, including Green and Geothermal Systems. The program features day and evening classes, access to industry-specific tools, and Energy Auditing coursework, with graduates earning eligibility for EPA certification and job placement support. Lincoln’s HVAC schools in New Jersey and Texas hold HVAC Excellence Accreditation, and graduates may pursue further specialized training through the Hussmann TechX Advanced Refrigeration Program.
Lone Star College (Rating: 3.9 out 5)
2 year AAS degree in offers a comprehensive education, with credits from three certificate levels (Occupational Entry, Residential Servicing, and Commercial Servicing) applicable toward the degree. Equipped with industry-standard technology and experienced faculty, the program emphasizes hands-on experience in classrooms and labs, preparing students for various roles in the HVAC-R industry.
National Technical Institute (Rating: 4.9 out 5)
National Technical Institute’s HVAC Technician Training Program provides comprehensive, hands-on education through nine structured courses, preparing students to become job-ready HVAC technicians. The program offers flexible scheduling with three- and four-month options, including weekend and evening classes, as well as a unique Fusion Training Program that combines online learning with in-person lab sessions. Students benefit from experienced instructors, affordable tuition, and all necessary tools and materials, including EPA 608 Certification. Graduates are equipped for diverse career opportunities in residential, commercial, and industrial HVAC settings.
North Central Texas College (Rating: 4.5 out 5)
NCTC’s HVAC degree program, offered on both the Gainesville and Champions Circle campuses, prepares students for a career in the heating, ventilation, and air conditioning industry with in-depth training using advanced equipment. Recognized by the Texas Department of License and Regulation (TDLR), the program includes courses on system setup, electrical systems, heat pump operation, and more. Students can earn a Basic Level 1 Certificate in one semester or a Level 1 Workforce Certificate in one year, both through a combination of online, hybrid, and in-person classes. The program also offers an Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree, designed to be completed in two years, covering comprehensive HVAC skills, including installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. All courses emphasize hands-on training and prepare students for the EPA 608 exam.
Remington College (Rating: 3.1 out 5)
Remington College's HVAC Technician Diploma program offers comprehensive training with a focus on hands-on learning and certification preparation. The curriculum aligns with national skill standards for HVAC technicians and covers essential topics such as indoor air quality standards, evaporators, compressors, condensers, and expansion components. Graduates are prepared for Type I, II, III, and Universal EPA certification testing, enabling them to work on air conditioners and refrigeration systems under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act.
South Texas Vocational Technical Institute (Rating: 4 out 5)
South Texas Vocational Technical Institute’s HVAC Training Program prepares students for residential and commercial HVAC maintenance through classroom education and hands-on training. This program focuses on developing technical skills, teamwork, and worksite safety, highlighting the importance of HVAC technicians in maintaining comfortable and safe living and working environments. The 50-credit hour program spans 10 months and is available at the Brownsville, Corpus Christi, McAllen, and San Antonio campuses.
Southern Careers Institute (Rating: 4.4 out 5)
SCI’s HVAC training program equips students with the skills needed to work in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVAC) for residential and commercial properties. The program includes hands-on training with ventilation systems, piping, soldering, brazing, and control circuits, emphasizing safety and practical techniques. Students prepare for industry-recognized certification exams such as NCCER, EPA-608, Indoor Air Quality, and R410A, enhancing their job market competitiveness and earning potential. The program offers flexible scheduling with day and evening classes to fit different lifestyles. Additionally, SCI covers the cost for graduates to sit for the NCCER and EPA-608 exams if taken within three months of program completion.
Tarrant County College (Rating: 4.5 out 5)
Texas State Technical College (Rating: 3.1 out 5)
The HVAC Technology program at TSTC provides comprehensive training across several campuses, including East Williamson County, Fort Bend County, and Harlingen. Students can pursue an Associate of Applied Science degree or various Certificate options through in-person and hybrid formats, including night classes.
Tulsa Welding School (Rating: 4.3 out 5)
Affordable, 7 month refrigeration technologies program.
Universal Technical Institute (Rating: 4.3 out 5)
The HVACR Technician program at UTI is designed to be completed in as little as nine months, preparing students for entry-level roles in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration. The curriculum covers essential industry topics, including system installation, troubleshooting, and safety procedures, while also preparing students for key certifications such as the EPA 608. With training available at nine campuses, graduates gain hands-on skills for careers in residential, commercial, and industrial HVACR settings.
University of Texas Continuing Education (Rating: 3.8 out 5)
The HVAC/R Simulations for Field Technicians course is a self-paced, online program offering 18 hours of immersive, hands-on training over six months. Through approximately 200 true-to-life service call simulations, students develop skills in servicing, maintaining, and troubleshooting seven types of HVAC/R equipment. Although the course does not include graded assessments, students who complete all simulations receive a certificate of completion.
Vista College (Rating: 3.3 out 5)
Vista College’s HVAC program provides hands-on training in heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems, preparing students for entry-level technician roles. The program can be completed in as little as 10 months and includes certification preparation for EPA Section 608, which is essential for handling refrigerants. Graduates gain practical skills in system installation, maintenance, and repair, equipping them for careers in residential and commercial HVAC settings.
Weatherford College (Rating: 4.2 out 5)
Weatherford College’s Basic and Intermediate HVAC programs provide hands-on training in air conditioning and refrigeration systems through two 128-contact-hour courses. Over a 16-week period, students gain foundational and intermediate skills while preparing for the EPA certification exam, and earn up to 25.6 CEUs upon completion. Graduates receive a certificate of completion and are equipped for roles such as HVAC Technician, Installer, or Refrigeration Operator in a field with strong job growth in Texas.
Wharton County Junior College (Rating: 4.3 out 5)
The program at Wharton County Junior College (WCJC) offers comprehensive training in equipment installation, maintenance, diagnosis, and repair, using computer simulation to enhance diagnostic skills. Students can earn dual certifications in Entry Level Residential Air Conditioning & Electrical and Apprentice Level Air Conditioning, Heating, Refrigeration, & Electrical.
Salary Survey
Below are some estimates for average salary in the state.
- ZipRecruiter: $51,202
- Indeed.com: $53,251
- Bureau of Labor: $54,640
- Talent.com: $56,517
- Glassdoor.com: $75K
Salary by City or Area, per BLS
| Area | Per Hour | Per Year |
|---|---|---|
| Abilene | $22.37 | $46,540 |
| Amarillo | $23.64 | $49,180 |
| Austin-Round Rock | $26.92 | $55,980 |
| Beaumont-Port Arthur | $24.33 | $50,600 |
| Big Thicket Region of Texas | $23.28 | $48,430 |
| Border Region of Texas | $22.08 | $45,920 |
| Brownsville-Harlingen | $20.20 | $42,010 |
| Coastal Plains Region of Texas | $24.00 | $49,920 |
| College Station-Bryan | $24.51 | $50,970 |
| Corpus Christi | $24.89 | $51,770 |
| Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington | $27.83 | $57,890 |
| El Paso | $20.38 | $42,390 |
| Hill Country Region of Texas | $22.17 | $46,120 |
| Houston-The Woodlands-Sugar Land | $28.01 | $58,250 |
| Killeen-Temple | $22.86 | $47,540 |
| Laredo | $21.23 | $44,160 |
| Longview | $22.97 | $47,770 |
| Lubbock | $24.13 | $50,180 |
| McAllen-Edinburg-Mission | $21.82 | $45,390 |
| Midland | $27.91 | $58,050 |
| North Texas Region of Texas | $23.33 | $48,520 |
| Odessa | $25.79 | $53,640 |
| San Angelo | $23.34 | $48,540 |
| San Antonio-New Braunfels | $25.05 | $52,110 |
| Sherman-Denison | $23.50 | $48,880 |
| Texarkana | $23.76 | $49,420 |
| Tyler | $26.02 | $54,120 |
| Victoria | $22.94 | $47,720 |
| Waco | $23.71 | $49,310 |
| West Texas Region of Texas | $23.12 | $48,100 |
| Wichita Falls | $21.69 | $45,120 |
Occupation: Heating, Air Conditioning, and Refrigeration Mechanics and Installers (SOC Code499021)
source: data.bls.gov
Texas Requirements
License
Heating, air-conditioning, and refrigeration mechanics and installers are required to be licensed in Texas.
To get a license in the state of Texas, applicants must be 18 years of age, register with the state of Texas as a technician working for a contractor, and get work experience under a licensed contractor.
To obtain an HVAC license in Texas, visit Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation.
The Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR) issues two types of licenses:
- Class A: the Class A license lets you work on any size HVAC equipment.
- Class B: the Class B license limits you to 25 tons of cooling and 1.5 million BTU of heating.
Endorsement Exams
For either the Class A or Class B license, you also need an endorsement for environmental air conditioning, commercial refrigeration and process cooling and heating, or both.
You will need to pass an exam for each type of endorsement. To sit for an examination you need at least 3 years of practical work experience within the preceding 5 years.
If you have a degree in air conditioning engineering, refrigeration engineering, or mechanical engineering from a Department-approved school, you can use it for up to 2 years of the work experience requirement. Exams are administered by PSI Exams.
For complete information on registering for the exams, visit the Texas Department of Licensing at Regulation HVAC Candidate Information Bulletin.
What’s on the Exam?
As per the Board of Licensing, the contents of these tests require extensive knowledge of electrical codes with regard to HVAC specifically which candidates may obtain through completion of an apprenticeship program OR 2 to 5 years of paid experience.
For those with required coursework but less than the required three of experience, the industry has developed a series of exams to evaluate competency in basic residential and commercial heating and cooling, as well as commercial refrigeration.
These exams are considered “entry-level” exams and are often administered at both secondary and postsecondary vocational and trade schools.
Certification Requirements
To get an HVAC certification in Texas, applicants must first complete 24 months of work under a licensed contractor. HVAC techs can then become a certified ACR technician by completing a 2,000-hour program.
In addition, all HVAC technicians who work with refrigerants must be certified in their proper handling. To become certified, technicians must pass a written examination specific to the type of work they perform.
The three areas of certification are:
- Type I for those servicing small appliances
- Type II for high pressure refrigerants
- Type III for low-pressure refrigerants.
Exams are administered by an organization approved by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, such as vocational schools, contractor associations, and unions. The TACC offers study guides for these exams.
Apprenticeships
There are three agencies that set standards for the accreditation of HVAC training programs:
- HVAC Excellence
- National Center for Construction Education and Research
- Partnership for Air Conditioning, Heating, and Refrigeration Accreditation.
Some HVAC technicians gain training through apprenticeships run by joint committees representing Texas chapters of the following:
- Air-Conditioning Contractors of America (TACCA)
- Mechanical Contractors Association of America
- Plumbing-Heating-Cooling Contractors—National Association
- International Association of Sheet Metal, Air, Rail and Transportation Workers (SMART)
- United Association of Journeymen and Apprentices of the Plumbing and Pipefitting Industry of the United States.
Refer to each of the Web sites for further details on admission, and training program content.
Formal apprenticeship programs last from 3 to 5 years and combine on-the-job training with classroom instruction.
Coursework is the same as offered in vocational and community college programs. Further details regarding admission and program content may be found on each of the websites listed above.
Educational Requirements for Apprenticeships
In general, applicants for all apprenticeships must have a high school diploma or general equivalency diploma (GED). Strong math and reading skills are essential.
Students in traditional HVAC programs and apprenticeship programs also learn about legislative issues and regulations that govern the use of heating, air conditioning and refrigeration systems.
Benefits of Apprenticeship
Both formal vocational training and participation in apprenticeship programs are equally valid methods of beginning a career as a HVAC Technician. After successful completion of an apprentice program, HVAC technicians are considered skilled tradespersons able to work independently.
What Texas Employers Are Seeking in HVAC Technicians
The HVAC industry in Texas is booming, with employers seeking skilled and versatile technicians who bring both technical expertise and strong problem-solving abilities. Whether it’s residential, commercial, or industrial HVAC work, companies in Texas value technicians who are adaptable, customer-focused, and capable of working across related disciplines.
Key Skills and Qualifications Texas Employers Want
Texas employers consistently look for HVAC technicians with a combination of technical proficiency, hands-on experience, and soft skills that allow them to excel in customer-facing roles.
- Technical Expertise: Employers like Milestone Electric, Air & Plumbing in Irving prioritize hands-on experience in installing and maintaining residential heating, ventilation, and air conditioning systems. Similarly, Davis Air Conditioning & Heating, Inc., which serves the Houston area, seeks technicians skilled in servicing and repairing residential HVAC units, while also expecting a working knowledge of electrical and refrigerant systems.
- Certifications and Licenses:
- EPA Certification: Many employers, including Milestone and Davis, require or prefer technicians with an EPA certification to handle refrigerants safely.
- TDLR Registration: Companies often look for technicians who are registered with the Texas Department of Licensing and Regulation (TDLR), ensuring compliance with state HVAC standards.
- Driver’s License: Nearly all positions, from apprenticeships to experienced tech roles, require a valid driver’s license due to the travel demands of service calls.
- Customer Service and Communication: Employers emphasize the importance of customer interaction. Companies like SALT Service Co. in Hutto highlight the need for technicians with strong customer service skills, noting that the ability to explain technical issues clearly and professionally is highly valued.
- Physical and Mechanical Aptitude:
- Technicians are expected to work in physically demanding environments, often involving heavy lifting (up to 75 lbs), climbing, and working in confined or extreme temperature conditions.
- Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD), for example, requires HVAC apprentices to perform preventive maintenance and minor repairs on a variety of systems, including compressors, chillers, and boilers.
Cross-Disciplinary Skills and Overlapping Industries
The HVAC industry in Texas increasingly values crossover skills, making it attractive to those with experience in other trades. Several employers actively seek or consider candidates with skills in related disciplines, including:
- Plumbing and Refrigeration:
- Companies like Milestone explicitly value technicians with plumbing experience, as HVAC systems often require knowledge of water lines, drain systems, and gas connections.
- Refrigeration skills are also in demand, especially in commercial settings where technicians may handle walk-in coolers and commercial refrigeration units.
- Electrical and Mechanical Knowledge:
- FWISD values candidates with experience in electrical maintenance and wiring systems, as these skills are vital for diagnosing and repairing HVAC components.
- Davis Air Conditioning seeks technicians with an understanding of both mechanical and electrical troubleshooting, as modern HVAC systems integrate smart technology and automated controls.
- Construction and Building Maintenance:
- HVAC technicians are increasingly called upon for minor construction-related tasks, such as installing ductwork or working alongside construction teams on new installations.
- FWISD highlights the benefit of cross-training in areas like welding, electrical technology, and construction, broadening career prospects.
Top Texas Employers Hiring HVAC Technicians
Several leading Texas employers currently offer HVAC positions with competitive pay, benefits, and growth opportunities:
- Milestone Electric, Air & Plumbing (Irving, TX)
- Focus: Residential HVAC installations and service.
- Cross-disciplinary skills: Plumbing and electrical experience valued.
- Benefits: 401(k) matching, health insurance, and paid holidays.
- Davis Air Conditioning & Heating, Inc. (Brookshire, TX)
- Focus: Residential HVAC service and repair.
- Cross-disciplinary skills: Electrical troubleshooting and refrigerant handling.
- Perks: Company vehicle, year-round work, and continuing education.
- SALT Service Co. (Hutto, TX)
- Focus: Residential HVAC services with a focus on customer care.
- Cross-disciplinary skills: Customer service and sales experience preferred.
- Benefits: Health insurance, paid holidays, and career advancement opportunities.
- Fort Worth Independent School District (FWISD)
- Focus: Maintenance and repair of HVAC systems in educational facilities.
- Cross-disciplinary skills: Electrical, welding, and mechanical experience.
- Benefits: Consistent work schedule, safety training, and professional development.
What Sets HVAC Technicians Apart in Texas
To stand out, HVAC technicians in Texas need to demonstrate:
- Versatility and multi-trade competence – The ability to handle electrical wiring, basic plumbing, and HVAC repairs makes technicians more valuable.
- Certifications and licenses – EPA certification and TDLR registration are essential.
- Customer service skills – Employers prioritize technicians who can communicate effectively with clients.
- Physical and technical resilience – Willingness to work in demanding environments, from extreme temperatures to confined spaces, is a must.
Conclusion: A Thriving and Expanding Field
Texas HVAC employers value technicians with a strong technical foundation, adaptability, and excellent customer service skills. With growing crossover into electrical, plumbing, and construction disciplines, HVAC technicians in Texas have substantial opportunities for growth and career advancement.