How to Become an HVAC Tech in California
To become an HVAC technician in California, you need to be at least 18 years old and have your high school diploma or GED. You can then attend a trade school to learn about HVAC systems and how to safely work with them. You also need to gain some work experience and earn a state license before you can qualify for jobs.
Train at a California HVAC School
The first step in your journey to be an HVAC Technician in California is to earn your high school diploma or GED. But if you don’t have one, you may be able to earn yours while you complete your HVAC training through C4L Academy. C4L is a California-based adult high school accredited by Cognia, an accrediting agency recognized by the State Departments of Education and the United States Department of Education. This unique program allows you to earn your high school diploma and HVAC certificate at the same time.
When you choose your HVAC school, be sure to look for one that offers hands-on lessons taught by instructors who have worked in the industry. You want to learn about old and new heat and air conditioning systems that run on gas, electricity, and renewable energies. You need to learn about industry safety practices, including working with electricity, refrigeration, and other HVAC systems. And you need to take and pass the EPA refrigerant handling test. When you graduate from your HVAC program, you earn a certificate that validates your knowledge of HVAC system installation, service, and repair.
Gain Experience with a Licensed California HVAC Contractor
Before you can be licensed as an HVAC Technician in California, you need to work under someone who’s already licensed. After you complete your formal training, you can work for an HVAC company or contractor or find an apprenticeship. The state requires four years of professional HVAC experience to apply for a state license. In California, you can apply your training toward this qualification for up to three years’ credit, but you will still need work experience to fill in the gap. A good option is to complete an apprenticeship. This places you under the guidance of a licensed HVAC technician who can mentor you and show you the ropes. You can find an apprenticeship in your area by searching the U.S. Department of Labor’s database.
Apply for the California C-20 License Exam for HVAC
The State of California requires HVAC techs to earn a Specialty Contractor license from the Contractors State License Board. Select the C-20 license for Warm-Air Heating, Ventilation and Air Conditioning. You will need to fill out an application and provide your trade school diploma, verify your work experience, and ensure you meet the state bond and insurance requirements. You need a valid USA-issued ID or Driver’s License and a Social Security Number or TIN. You also cannot be under any probation or parole from a criminal case. And you need to pay a $450 application fee.
Pass the California State Exams for HVAC
To earn your state license, you need to pass two exams: the Law and Business Examination and the Trade Examination. Both exams are multiple-choice, and you can take them online through a PSI testing center. The Law and Business Exam covers topics like business finances, employment requirements, and safety while the Trade Exam covers installation, maintenance, fabrication, safety, and more. You can find study guides for both of these exams on the licensing board website.
Look for HVAC Technician Jobs in California
Now that you’ve earned your license, you can apply for HVAC technician jobs in California. Check out local companies to see if they’re hiring. You might consider companies like:
Check out company websites or give them a call to find out if they have any open positions. You can also check online job boards like HVAC Insider or HVAC Jobs Center and search for jobs in your area. Another good option is to create a LinkedIn profile and set notifications for HVAC jobs. You can also build a network of other HVAC techs, including the students from your training program, who may be able to give you job leads.
Are you interested in being an HVAC tech in California? Contact Charter College today. We offer an HVAC/R Technician program that can prepare you for entry-level work in as few as 10 months. The program is offered though a blended learning format for flexibility and convenience. Call 888-200-9942 or fill out the form to learn more.