How To Become a Hvac Technician In Florida 2025

Comprehensive guide on how to become a hvac technician in Florida, including education requirements, licensing, certification, and career outlook.

By BestHVACSchool Editorial Team
Published January 15, 2025
3 min read
Updated February 28, 2025

Step By Step Guide To Become A HVAC Technician In Florida 2025

Understand HVAC Technician Role and Responsibilities

HVAC technicians in Florida are responsible for installing, maintaining, and repairing heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. They must understand blueprints, work with electrical components, and adhere to safety standards.

Complete Necessary Education Requirements

  1. High School Diploma or GED: Begin with obtaining a high school diploma or GED, as this is a basic requirement for entering HVAC training programs.

  2. Enroll in an Accredited HVAC Program: Choose an accredited technical school or community college that offers HVAC certification programs. These programs typically cover essential topics like system design, electronics, mechanics, and the principles of refrigeration and cooling.

Gain Practical Experience through Apprenticeships

  1. Apprenticeship Programs: Participate in an apprenticeship to gain hands-on experience. Organizations such as local unions or contractor associations, including the Florida Association of Plumbing, Heating, and Cooling Contractors (https://www.faphcc.org), may offer apprenticeship programs.

  2. On-the-Job Training: Apprenticeships often require about 2,000 hours per year of on-the-job training alongside approximately 144 hours of classroom instruction over three to five years.

Acquire Certification

  1. EPA Section 608 Certification: All HVAC technicians who handle refrigerants must pass the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Section 608 Certification. This is available in four classifications: Type I, Type II, Type III, and Universal.

  2. Choose Specialty Certifications: Consider obtaining additional certifications such as North American Technician Excellence (NATE) certification to improve employment prospects.

Obtain Licensure in Florida

  1. Florida Contractor’s License: To work as an HVAC contractor, apply for a Florida contractor’s license through the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR) (https://www.myfloridalicense.com).

  2. Licensure Types: Choose between a Registered Contractor's license, applicable to certain locales, and a Certified Contractor's license, which allows work anywhere in Florida.

  3. Application Requirements:

    • Age: Be at least 18 years of age.
    • Education: Proof of completed apprenticeship or education equivalent.
    • Experience: Document four years of experience working with HVAC systems.
    • Examination: Pass the relevant trade knowledge and business exams.

  4. License Fees: Submit the application along with a fee – typically around $205 to $250 depending on the type of license.

Maintain Licensure

  1. Continuing Education: Renew your license every two years by completing the required 14 hours of continuing education approved by DBPR.

  2. License Renewal: Pay renewal fees periodically – the fee is generally around $105 for a Registered Contractor and $295 for a Certified Contractor.

Stay Updated with Industry Changes

HVAC technology and regulations can change rapidly. Stay informed through industry publications, workshops, and seminars. Engage with professional organizations like Air Conditioning Contractors of America (https://www.acca.org) to maintain industry knowledge.