Set Yourself Apart
NATE exams represent real-world working knowledge of HVACR systems, and these certificates can help a student distinguish themselves as having the job knowledge needed to succeed in their careers.
The Ready-to-Work Certificate
This entry-level exam is designed for technicians who are just entering the HVACR field, with little to no formal education or training. Priced at $55, a complimentary, downloadable study guide that focuses on fundamental job knowledge and skills is available when the exam is ordered.
The Ready-to-Work Certificate exam is available online only, does not require a proctor and can be taken from any computer, anywhere, including at home. Those who pass this exam earn a certificate, not a NATE certification. This credential is valid for 5 years, renewal can be done by retaking the exam.
Retakes of the exam for the same technician cost $40 each. Multiple Ready-to-Work Certificate exams can be reserved through the NATE online store.
Click here to view the Knowledge Areas of Technician Expertise (KATEs) for this certification exam.
The HVAC Support Technician Certificate
This exam is designed to support technicians who have worked in the field for 6 to 12 months. Topics linked to the NATE professional level certifications are covered, but at a more fundamental level. Earning this certificate demonstrates increased knowledge and skills, and strengthens the foundation needed to pursue NATE’s professional certifications.
The HVAC Support Technician Certificate is monitored or proctored. As such, technicians are required to take this exam at a Testing Organization. Those who pass this exam earn a certificate, not a NATE certification. This credential is valid for 5 years, renewal can be done by retaking the exam.
Click here to view the Knowledge Areas of Technician Expertise (KATEs) for this certification exam.
Training Resources
NATE Training Academy
NATE has partnered with Interplay Learning to create NATE Training Academy, an online platform designed to provide technicians a way to train for NATE certification exams online at their own pace. The comprehensive online courses are all available on-demand and can be taken at any time. The interactive and immersive online courses include “field-like” 3D and VR simulations, videos, and knowledge checks. You can find more information about NATE Training Academy’s exam preparation courses here.
Beginning in July 2023, the Ready to Work and HVAC Support Technician Certificates will be valid for 5 years.
Official NATE Study Guides
NATE has created a study guide to help technicians prepare for the exam. The paperback guide includes lots of graphics and practice questions at the end of each chapter. Guides for the Ready-to-Work and HVAC Support Technician certificates are available for purchase in the NATE online store.
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Track Credits
Technicians are advised to keep a personal record of all training taken. Any courses not listed in myNATE can be personally uploaded for approval. NATE accepts rosters, certificates, receipts and official letters from training organizations. These documents must clearly show the technician’s name, the name and date of the course, as well as the duration. If you do not have proof of training, fill out and submit the attendance form here.
Recertify
When 16 credit hours have been approved, eligible technicians may pay renewal fees by phone or online through the NATE store. While NATE accepts payments that are emailed, faxed and mailed, online transactions are secure and much faster! Click here for the recertification application form, to be used by those sending proof of training and payment by mail or fax.
