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If you want to work in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration (HVACR) in Utah, the most important first step is training. Utah requires HVAC professionals to have hands-on skills, safety knowledge, and proper licensing before working on their own. The right school can prepare you for all of that.
How HVAC Licensing Works in Utah
In Utah, your pathway to becoming an HVAC technician depends on your goals. If you want to run your own business or pull permits, you'll need a contractor's license. If you want to start as an installer or service tech, you may work under a licensed contractor while you gain experience.
Utah Division of Occupational and Professional Licensing (DOPL) oversees contractor licensing, including HVAC. Always confirm the latest requirements with them before you enroll in a program.
Steps to Start an HVAC Career in Utah
- Get quality training from an accredited HVAC program or registered apprenticeship.
- Earn EPA Section 608 Certification - required by federal law for anyone handling refrigerants.
- Work under a licensed HVAC contractor to gain field experience.
- Apply for state licensing if you plan to become a contractor.
- Keep your certifications current through continuing education.
Best HVAC Schools in Utah
These Utah schools and training providers offer HVAC programs that can get you job-ready.
- Location: Salt Lake City, UT
- Program type: Certificate and AAS degree options
- Highlights: Hands-on labs with modern HVAC and refrigeration equipment, preparation for NATE and EPA exams
- More info: https://www.slcc.edu/
2. Ogden-Weber Technical College - HVAC Apprenticeship
- Location: Ogden, UT
- Program type: Apprenticeship-related classroom instruction
- Highlights: Combines paid on-the-job training with evening classes, recognized by the Utah Department of Workforce Services
- More info: https://www.otech.edu/
3. Mountainland Technical College (MTECH) - HVACR Program
- Location: Lehi, UT
- Program type: Certificate program
- Highlights: Flexible scheduling, preparation for EPA Section 608, focus on residential and light commercial systems
- More info: https://mtec.edu/
4. Davis Technical College - HVAC Technician Program
- Location: Kaysville, UT
- Program type: Certificate
- Highlights: Modular learning system, covers installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and system design basics
- More info: https://www.davistech.edu/
5. Utah Career Center - Sheet Metal and HVAC Apprenticeship
- Location: West Valley City, UT
- Program type: Union apprenticeship
- Highlights: Four-year program blending classroom instruction with paid, supervised field work, includes sheet metal fabrication experience
- More info: http://www.utahcareercenter.org/
Comparing Utah HVAC Training Options
| School / Program | Program Length | Degree/Cert Offered | Apprenticeship Option | EPA 608 Prep |
| Salt Lake Community College | 1-2 years | Certificate, AAS | No | Yes |
| Ogden-Weber Technical College | 4 years (apprentice) | Apprenticeship Certificate | Yes | Yes |
| Mountainland Technical College | ~9 months | Certificate | No | Yes |
| Davis Technical College | Varies | Certificate | No | Yes |
| Utah Career Center - HVAC Apprenticeship | 4 years | Union Apprenticeship Credential | Yes | Yes |
EPA Section 608 Certification
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) requires all technicians who work with refrigerants to have Section 608 Certification. Many Utah HVAC programs include test prep in their coursework.
Important: You cannot legally purchase or handle refrigerants without EPA Section 608 Certification. This rule applies in every state.
You can earn this certification in one or more of these categories:
- Type I - Small appliances
- Type II - High-pressure systems
- Type III - Low-pressure systems
- Universal - Covers all types
Tips for Choosing the Right HVAC Program
- Check accreditation - Look for schools recognized by HVAC industry organizations or the state.
- Ask about hands-on training - You'll need experience using actual service tools and equipment.
- Find out about job placement - Some schools work directly with local contractors.
- Consider scheduling - Evening or weekend classes can help if you are working while training.
- Look for prep for NATE or EPA certifications - Industry certifications can help you stand out.
Utah State Licensing Details
If you plan to become an independent HVAC contractor:
Utah HVAC Contractor License is under the S350 classification for HVAC work. You'll need to meet experience requirements, show proof of general liability insurance, and pass trade and business law exams. Contact DOPL for exact details: https://dopl.utah.gov/
Final Advice
Starting your HVAC career in Utah means picking the right school, earning your certifications, and getting real on-the-job experience. Whether you go through a technical college or a union apprenticeship, make sure the program gives you the skills to work safely and meet state requirements.
Here's what you should do next:
- Contact at least two of the schools listed above to compare program schedules and costs.
- Ask about EPA Section 608 certification prep.
- Map out your training and work experience so you can meet Utah's licensing requirements when the time comes.
The sooner you get trained and certified, the sooner you can start working in the trade.
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