If you're planning to work in HVAC, you will be handling refrigerants. To do so legally, you must earn your EPA 608 Certification. This credential ensures you understand how to safely handle, recover, recycle, and dispose of refrigerants according to federal law.
Below is a clear breakdown of EPA 608 test types, formats, study expectations, and common questions to help you prepare.
How Many EPA 608 Tests Are There?
There is one EPA 608 exam, but it is divided into four separate sections. The Core Portion must be passed first. After that, you may take:
- Type I — Small appliances
- Type II — High-pressure appliances
- Type III — Low-pressure appliances
Passing all three types + the core grants you the Universal Certification.
How Many Questions Are on the EPA 608 Test?
Each test contains 25 open-book questions. You must correctly answer at least 18 out of 25 questions (70%) to pass. Although the test is open book, studying beforehand is essential—the exam covers detailed safety rules, environmental requirements, and handling procedures.
Core Portion
Covers ozone depletion, substitute refrigerants, refrigeration cycles, safety, shipping, and environmental regulations. You must pass this before attempting Types I, II, or III.
Type I
Focuses on servicing small appliances. Includes recovery techniques, safety standards, and recovery requirements.
Type II
Covers servicing or disposing of high-pressure appliances. Includes leak detection, repair requirements, recovery procedures, and safety.
Type III
Focuses on low-pressure appliances. Topics include leak-test pressurization, recovery requirements, and system-specific safety protocols.
Universal Certification
Awarded when you pass the Core exam plus Types I, II, and III. This allows you to work with all refrigerants and systems.
Try our free HVAC practice tests to prepare.
How Much Does It Cost to Take the EPA 608 Exam?
Pricing varies, but most test providers charge around:
- $20 per test section
- $150 or more for Universal Certification
- Retakes: approximately $6
You will register online and receive scheduling instructions by email within 24–48 hours. Most exam centers require scheduling at least 72 hours in advance.
Bring valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport), your Social Security number or ITIN, and proof of address. Phones and personal devices are typically not allowed.
Your results will be available immediately, and your official certification card will be mailed the next day.
How to Get the EPA 608 Certification
To earn the certification, you must pass the Core exam + any combination of Types I–III. To become Universally Certified, you must pass all four sections.
The Core and Type I exams may be taken online with a virtual proctor. Type II and Type III must be taken at a physical test center.
Can You Take the EPA 608 Exam Online?
Yes—Core and Type I can be taken online with remote proctoring. You'll receive instructions and a downloadable prep manual when you register.
Type II and Type III must be taken in person due to higher safety and compliance requirements.
How Long Does It Take to Get Your EPA 608 Exam Results?
Results are immediate. If you pass, your certification card will be mailed the following business day. Most candidates receive it within a few days.
How Long Is the EPA 608 Certification Good For?
EPA 608 Certifications never expire. If you lose your card, contact the organization that administered your exam for a replacement. If that provider has closed, you may need to contact the EPA directly.
EPA 609: How to Get 609 Certified
The EPA 609 Certification is required for servicing motor vehicle air conditioning systems. This open-book exam contains 25 questions, and you must answer 21 correctly to pass.
Study materials are provided upon registration, and you may retake the test as needed. The initial cost is around $20; retakes typically cost $5.
Find an HVAC training program near you.
More Reading
Ready to move forward? Explore HVAC programs near you and take the next step toward certification.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the EPA 608 exam difficult?
The test is open book, but it still requires preparation. If you study the core concepts—refrigeration safety, leak detection, regulations, and recovery procedures—you should feel confident heading into the exam. Most students pass when they spend time with the prep book provided after registration.
How long should I study for the EPA 608 exam?
Most test-takers spend 1–2 weeks reviewing the study manual. If you’re new to HVAC, you may need additional time. The core portion is especially important because you must pass it before taking Types 1–3.
Can I retake the EPA 608 exam if I fail?
Yes. You can retake the exam as many times as needed. Fees vary, but online retakes for the core and Type 1 exams typically cost around $5–$6. In-person proctored retakes for Type 2 or Type 3 may cost more.
Do I need to renew my EPA 608 certification?
No. EPA 608 certifications never expire. If you lose your card, you may need to contact your original testing provider for a replacement.
What jobs can I get with EPA 608 certification?
With Universal Certification (Core + Types 1–3), you can work on all types of HVAC systems. This opens opportunities in residential HVAC, commercial refrigeration, industrial systems, facility maintenance, and more.
