In short
HVAC apprenticeships typically last three to five years, according to BLS, mixing paid work with classes in electrical theory, refrigeration and code. Sponsors include union pipe trades and sheet metal locals, contractor associations and individual companies. You will need EPA Section 608 certification to handle refrigerant. HVAC mechanics earned a median $61,010 in May 2025, and jobs are projected to grow 10.9% by 2035.
| Middle pay | $61,010 a year, roughly $29.33 an hour (May 2025) |
|---|---|
| How most people start | Certificate to start, then long-term on-the-job training |
| People in the trade | About 440,900 nationwide (2025) |
| Growth to 2035 | BLS expects 10.9% growth |
| Openings a year | Around 40,600, counting retirements |
| Typical length | 3 to 5 years |
| Required card | EPA Section 608 for anyone who handles refrigerant |
From the BLS Employment Projections table (2025 to 2035) and May 2025 wage survey. These are U.S. numbers. Local shops may pay above or below them, and apprentices start well under the middle figure.
Who sponsors HVAC apprenticeships
| Sponsor | Focus |
|---|---|
| United Association locals | HVAC service, refrigeration and pipefitting |
| SMART sheet metal locals | Ductwork, air balancing and some service work |
| ACCA, PHCC and ABC chapters | Merit shop programs for member contractors |
| Single employers | Larger service companies and facility owners run their own registered programs |
School first, or apprentice first?
School programs run about six months to two years and can make you easier to hire. An apprenticeship takes longer but pays you the whole way. Some people do a short certificate, get hired as a helper and then join their employer's apprenticeship. Either way, the work hours count toward any state license.
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What you will work on
Expect residential furnaces and heat pumps early, then commercial rooftop units, chillers, boilers and controls as you progress. Electrical troubleshooting is a big part of the job, so brush up on Ohm's law before you start.
Straight answers
How long is an HVAC apprenticeship?
BLS says three to five years. Union pipe trades programs are often five.
Do HVAC apprentices need EPA certification?
Yes, before handling refrigerant. Many programs build the exam into the first year.
How much do HVAC apprentices make?
Apprentices earn a share of the full technician rate that rises with time. Our HVAC pay page shows the full range.
Can I get an HVAC apprenticeship without school?
Yes. Apprenticeships are designed for beginners, though some employers prefer applicants with a short program or helper experience.