Are HVAC Skills Transferable to Other States?

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The fundamentals of HVAC installation, maintenance, and repair remain the same, no matter where you work, so your HVAC skills can easily transfer to other states, companies, and work sites. If you need to relocate, your knowledge and skills move with you—and are valued by employers across the U.S. But your HVAC license may not transfer to another state, depending on where you move. Here’s what you need to know about moving your HVAC career across state lines.

Most HVAC Skills are Required Nationwide

There’s a baseline set of skills you need to work as an HVAC technician in any state. These are skills you learn from a comprehensive training program that prepares you for certifications and entry-level HVAC work. Some of the transferable skills you learn from training include:

  • HVAC Science and Electrical Work
  • Basic Refrigeration and Air Properties
  • Energy Conservation, Heat Recovery, and Air Quality
  • Gas and Oil Heating Systems
  • Boiler, Chiller, and Cooling Tower Systems
  • Refrigeration, Pipe, Duct, and Flue Systems
  • Refrigerant and Oil Usage
  • Commercial Refrigeration Systems
  • Residential and Commercial Controls, AC, and Heat Pumps
  • Construction Drawings, Building Specifications, and Design Considerations

These skills are valued by HVAC employers no matter what state you decide to call home.

State HVAC License Requirements May Vary

While your education, skills, and experience transfer with you to another state, your license may not. In most cases, you need to apply for a new state license when you move. This could include sitting for a new state exam, passing a new background check, and ensuring you meet the minimum experience requirements for a license.

Before you move, contact the state’s licensing board to review your work history, training, and certifications. They can tell you what requirements you may need to meet for licensing in their state. They can also tell you if they have a reciprocity agreement in place which does allow HVAC technicians to transfer their credentials.

Refrigeration Certification is Required for HVAC Techs in All 50 States

One certification you must have is the EPA Section 608 Certification, which is required by federal law. This certification enables you to handle refrigerants and is offered on four different levels:

  1. Type I – Small appliances
  2. Type II – High-pressure systems
  3. Type III – Low-pressure systems
  4. Universal Certification – Covers all equipment types

Most HVAC technicians choose universal certification to ensure they can work on all appliances, but the level you need depends on your job requirements and the work you perform. Your EPA credentials do transfer with you to another job or another state.

New HVAC Technology Skills Transfer Nationwide

As an HVAC Tech, you learn a lot about new technologies. New construction projects, the need to replace aging infrastructure, and an increasing emphasis on energy efficiency all create a new set of skills you need in your HVAC toolbelt. When you acquire them, you increase your value at your current worksite and can also take them with you wherever you go.

Many HVAC Certifications are Valued Across the Nation

Industry certifications validate your knowledge of fundamental HVAC principles, and can showcase expertise in diagnostics, installation, and service. Industry certifications can help you stand out from other candidates no matter where you live. They can also allow you to pursue more advanced opportunities or roles that focus on energy efficiency, sales, facilities maintenance, or contract work.

Bring Your HVAC Training Wherever You Go

Are you ready for a career that allows you to transfer your skills wherever you go? HVAC Techs are in demand throughout the country so the skills you gain one place can follow you. But you first need the skills! That’s where career training in HVAC/R comes in. Charter College offers a Certificate in Heating, Ventilation, Air Conditioning and Refrigeration program that you can complete in less than a year. Taught by professionals from the industry, the programs combines lessons on HVAC and refrigeration systems and plenty of hands-on training. Call 888-200-9942 or fill out the form to get started on your new career.