EPA 608 / How to get certified
How to get EPA 608 certified
Five steps, from picking the right type to getting your card. Everything here is from EPA's Section 608 pages and the regulation, linked at each step.
1. Pick the type you need
- Type I: small appliances, such as fridges, window units and PTACs/PTHPs (factory-sealed, 5 lb of refrigerant or less).
- Type II: medium-, high- and very high-pressure appliances, such as residential split AC, heat pumps and commercial refrigeration.
- Type III: low-pressure appliances, mainly centrifugal chillers.
- Universal: all three. If you are not sure what you will work on, Universal covers everything.
Every type also needs the Core section. Car AC is different: that is Section 609, a separate certification.
Source: EPA, Section 608 technician certification requirements.
2. Know the exam format
| Questions | 25 Core + 25 per type. Universal: 100 |
|---|---|
| Passing score | 70% (84% for a mail-in Type I test, which can't be used toward Universal) |
| Format | Type II, III and Universal: closed-book and proctored. Type I may be on-site or mail-in |
For Universal, the Core section must be taken proctored. An open-book Core test does not count toward Universal.
Sources: 40 CFR 82 Subpart F, Appendix D; EPA certification requirements.
3. Study and practice
Take the free practice test for each section you need: Core · Type I · Type II · Type III. Each answer explains why and cites the rule it comes from. When you can pass each section comfortably, book the exam.
4. Book the test with an approved program
Only EPA-approved certifying programs can give the test. EPA lists them, with contact details, on Certification Programs for Section 608 Technicians: trade schools, unions, community colleges, trade associations and online providers.
- Online: EPA's list marks programs that offer remote or online testing, for example ESCO Institute, Mainstream Engineering and SkillCat.
- In person: many programs test at schools, union halls and supply houses. Ask the program for its testing locations.
- Cost: each program sets its own fee. Check it, and what's included, before you book.
5. Get your card, and keep it
When you pass, the program issues your card. EPA doesn't issue cards. Your certification doesn't expire.
Keep the card, and a photo of it on your phone. You'll need it to buy refrigerant: suppliers can sell most refrigerants only to certified technicians, or to employers who show they employ one.
Sources: EPA certification requirements; EPA, Refrigerant sales restriction.
Lost your card?
- If the program that certified you is still in business, ask it for a replacement.
- If it has closed, send your proof of passing (or a copy of your card) to a program that replaces cards. EPA names ESCO Institute and Ferris State University.
- If your program closed and you have no proof, contact EPA.
- With no record anywhere, you'll need to retake the test.
Source: EPA, Steps for replacing a lost Section 608 card.
Common questions
Does EPA 608 certification expire?
No. EPA says Section 608 technician certification credentials do not expire. Credentials from programs that have since stopped testing are still valid too.
Can I take the EPA 608 test online?
Yes, with some programs. EPA's list of approved programs marks which ones offer remote or online testing, such as ESCO Institute, Mainstream Engineering and SkillCat, and which test on site only.
Does the EPA issue the certification card?
No. EPA does not issue certification cards. The program that tested you issues the card, and it must keep records of everyone it tested and their scores.
How do I replace a lost EPA 608 card?
Contact the program that certified you. If it has closed, send proof that you passed (or a copy of your old card) to a program that replaces cards, such as ESCO Institute or Ferris State University. If your program closed and you have no proof, contact EPA. If none of these work, you have to retake the test.
Do I need a card to buy refrigerant?
Yes, for most refrigerants. Under the sales restriction, refrigerant in cylinders, cans or drums can be sold only to certified technicians or employers who show they employ one. Small cans for car AC are the main exception.
Can I work on equipment before I am certified?
Only as an apprentice who is closely and continually supervised by a certified technician. Otherwise, you need the certification type that matches the equipment.
On the job
Reading gauges? Use our free refrigerant PT chart and superheat and subcooling calculators.