Overview of Online HVAC Certification Programs in Texas
Becoming a certified HVAC technician in the state of Texas requires meeting a mix of federal-mandated requirements and state-mandated requirements. For example, all HVAC technicians are required to hold EPA Section 608 Certification to work with refrigerants, but the state of Texas has its own requirements for becoming an HVAC technician or air conditioning and refrigeration contractor. Licensing in the state requires knowledge and experience in the field, so many students choose to begin their education with a certificate program in the field. While most of these programs in the state are hands-on, students do have a few online or hybrid program options.
Most HVAC training programs do not have any prerequisites for admissions. However, once students are ready to apply for their license in the state of Texas, they need to be 18 years of age or older and have at least 36 months of hands-on experience. Training programs help prepare students for this exam by providing a background in areas like HVAC installation, refrigeration systems, and repairing temperature control equipment. Many training programs can be completed in less than 1 year.
Requirements for Online HVAC Certification
HVAC training programs typically cover a range of background knowledge and technical skills needed to design, install, repair, and maintain HVAC systems and/or prepare students to qualify for technician or contractor licensure in order to work in the state of Texas. While most of these programs are available in-person, some programs may offer hybrid formats with hands-on training in the field or be available fully online.
General Requirements
In order to be an HVAC contractor in the state of Texas, students must have 48 months of experience in the field under the supervision of a licensed contractor in the last 72 months or have technician certification for 12 months with 36 months of supervised experience in the last 48 months. Exceptions to this licensure eligibility include holding an HVAC certification, diploma, or degree. Once students have met licensure eligibility requirements, they must decide whether to pursue Class A licensure; this license allows them to work with units of all sizes. They may also choose a Class B licensure, which allows them to work with smaller heating and cooling systems. Students may also opt to pursue an endorsement from the state in process cooling or heating, environmental air conditioning, or commercial refrigeration. To earn their license, students schedule their exam through a third-party vendor and must take (and pass) the exam at one of several locations throughout the state.
Additional Requirements
Students in Texas who have earned the title of registered technician or certified technician must renew their credentials annually. This is done by submitting an online application and fee. Those who have earned their contractor's license in the state must also fill out an online application and submit the appropriate fee, but also need to complete 8 hours of continued education each year. Contractors also have the option to make changes to their license at the time of renewal, such as insurance changes, class upgrades, or adding an endorsement.
List of Online Programs for HVAC Certification in Texas
Students wishing to enroll in an HVAC training program in the state of Texas can choose from at least one hybrid option from a school based in the state or from a couple of online options outside of the state. Compare a few of the online HVAC training program options below.
Southern Career Institute
The Southern Career Institute, based in Austin, TX, offers an HVAC training program with some hybrid courses. Students in the program receive hands-on training in residential and commercial HVAC systems, as well as current techniques in green technology. This training course helps prepare and qualify students for a wide range of certifications, including EPA certification, HVAC certification, green certification, and indoor air quality certification.
Ashworth College
Ashworth College, based in Georgia, has a 4-month, fully online HVAC training program available to students throughout the country, including Texas. The program is self-paced and the school is accredited by the Distance Education Accrediting Commission (DEAC). The program also includes the EPA Section 608 certification exam.
Penn Foster
Penn Foster, based in Arizona, also provides students throughout the country with a self-paced, fully online HVAC career diploma program. The program is affordable and can be completed in 5 months. Students must complete 8 courses and receive an EPA certification test voucher.
Students in Texas who are interested in becoming an HVAC technician or contractor must pass a state exam. To prepare for this exam, students can take an online or hybrid HVAC training course; these can usually be completed in less than 1 year.
