How to Become an HVAC Technician in Florida

Updated April 13, 2025 | Brad Fishbein

Table of Contents

Thinking about starting a career in HVAC in Florida? You’re not alone—and you're definitely in the right place. With year-round air conditioning needs, frequent heat waves, and one of the fastest-growing populations in the U.S., HVAC professionals in Florida enjoy consistent demand and strong job security.

This step-by-step guide explains how to become an HVAC technician in Florida based on the latest rules from the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)1 and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)2.

Do You Need a License to Work in HVAC in Florida?

Yes. Florida requires HVAC professionals to be either registered or certified depending on where and how they work.

License Type Scope of Work Regulated By
Registered Local work only; not valid statewide Local Jurisdictions
Certified Valid across all of Florida Florida DBPR1

Additionally, EPA Section 608 certification is required federally if you handle refrigerants.

"Technicians who maintain, service, repair, or dispose of appliances that could release ozone-depleting refrigerants into the atmosphere must be certified under EPA Section 608." — EPA.gov2

Step-by-Step: How to Become an HVAC Tech in Florida

1. Meet Minimum Requirements

  • Be at least 18 years old
  • Hold a high school diploma or GED
  • Be legally eligible to work in the U.S.
  • Pass a background check3

2. Get EPA Section 608 Certified

You must earn EPA 608 certification if you will handle refrigerants. There are 4 types:

Type Covers
Type I Small appliances (under 5 lbs)
Type II High-pressure systems (residential/commercial)
Type III Low-pressure systems (chillers)
Universal Certification All of the above

You can prepare for and take this exam through most Florida HVAC schools or online via proctors like ESCO Institute.

3. Choose a Training Path

Florida does not require a degree, but completing a state-approved program increases your job options and reduces licensing requirements.

Path Duration Notes
Apprenticeship 4–5 years Earn while you learn
Trade School / Technical College 6–24 months Focused HVAC diploma or degree programs

"Florida apprenticeships are registered through the Florida Department of Education and include paid, hands-on experience." — FLDOE4

4. Register as an HVAC Technician (Optional but Common)

Many HVAC workers start as technicians under a licensed contractor before becoming licensed themselves.

  • Register with local jurisdictions if working under a registered contractor
  • No state test required at this level

This is a good path if you're starting out and want to build hours toward full certification.

5. Apply for a Certified HVAC Contractor License

Once you’ve gained 4+ years of experience (or equivalent education + experience), you can apply to become a Certified Air Conditioning Contractor.

Steps:

  • Submit application via DBPR: myfloridalicense.com
  • Complete background screening3
  • Provide proof of experience and/or education
  • Carry liability insurance & worker’s comp coverage
  • Pass the state HVAC license exam5

Estimated HVAC Licensing Costs in Florida

Item Estimated Cost
EPA Certification $40–$100
HVAC Trade School $2,000–$15,000
State License Exam ~$135 per section
DBPR Contractor Application ~$355
Fingerprinting / Background Check $60–$100
Total Startup Cost (range) $2,500–$16,000+

Salary & Job Outlook for HVAC Techs in Florida

Role Avg. Salary6 Demand
Entry-Level HVAC Technician $38,000–$42,000 High
Experienced Technician $50,000–$60,000 Very High
HVAC Contractor / Owner $70,000–$100,000+ Strong

"Florida ranks among the top five states for HVAC technician employment." — BLS.gov6

Other Florida Trades

FAQs

Do I need a license to work HVAC in Florida?
Yes, either as a registered or certified contractor. EPA 608 certification is also required for refrigerants.

Can I start working HVAC without a license?
Yes, if you work under a licensed contractor and register locally as a technician.

Is EPA 608 required in Florida?
Yes. It’s a federal requirement enforced by the EPA for anyone handling refrigerants.

How long does it take to become licensed?
Anywhere from 6 months (for entry-level work) to 4+ years for full contractor licensing.

Citations

  1. Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR): https://www.myfloridalicense.com ↩ ↩

  2. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency – Section 608 Technician Certification: https://www.epa.gov/section608 ↩ ↩

  3. Florida Department of Law Enforcement – Background Screening: https://www.fdle.state.fl.us ↩ ↩

  4. Florida Department of Education – Apprenticeships: https://www.fldoe.org/academics/career-adult-edu/apprenticeship-programs/ ↩

  5. PSI Exams – Florida HVAC Contractor Testing: https://candidate.psiexams.com ↩

  6. U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics – HVAC Mechanics and Installers: https://www.bls.gov/oes/current/oes499021.htm ↩ ↩

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Brad Fishbein Licensed Mold Assessor

Meet the author: Brad Fishbein is a Florida Licensed Mold Assessor and council-certified Microbial Investigator. He’s the founder of TradeCareerPath.com and has completed over 5,000 mold inspections since 2009. Brad now helps homeowners and tradespeople make smart decisions about mold, licensing, and skilled career paths.