North American Technician Excellence (NATE)

NATE Certification

North American Technician Excellence (NATE) HVAC Certification

The leading industry certification for HVAC/R technicians in North America, validating real-world knowledge of heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. Widely required or preferred by HVAC employers and recognized in manufacturer and utility programs.

$136CHP-5 exams have a 1-hour limit each; traditional Core/Specialty exams vary (typically up to 2 hours)

What's on the exam

Certified HVAC Professional (CHP-5) pathway

HVAC Fundamentals

~20%

Heat transfer and thermodynamics · Refrigeration cycle basics · Temperature, pressure, and measurement · System components and types · Tools and instruments

Electrical and Controls

~20%

Electrical theory and Ohm's law · Motors and capacitors · Wiring diagrams and schematics · Thermostats and control circuits · Electrical safety and troubleshooting

Comfort and Airflow

~20%

Psychrometrics · Air distribution and duct systems · Static pressure and airflow measurement · Indoor air quality · Comfort and humidity control

Installation

~20%

Equipment placement and mounting · Refrigerant line and piping practices · System charging and evacuation · Startup and commissioning · Codes and safety practices

Service

~20%

Diagnostics and troubleshooting · Refrigerant recovery and leak detection · Component testing and replacement · Preventive maintenance · Customer communication and documentation

Frequently asked questions

How much does the NATE Certification cost?

The NATE Certification costs $136. Approximate Core/online-proctored fee; specialty exams ~$146; pricing varies by proctoring method and provider.

How long is the NATE Certification and how many questions does it have?

CHP-5: five 30-question exams; Traditional: 50-question Core plus 100-question Specialty — CHP-5 exams have a 1-hour limit each; traditional Core/Specialty exams vary (typically up to 2 hours).

What do you need to pass the NATE Certification?

70% or higher on each exam.

Can you retake the NATE Certification?

Permitted; candidates may retake failed exams after restudying.

What is the best way to study for the NATE Certification?

Study the official blueprint, not random material: the exam is weighted by domain (HVAC Fundamentals ~20%, Electrical and Controls ~20%, Comfort and Airflow ~20%, Installation ~20%, Service ~20%). Spaced-repetition flashcards built domain-by-domain against that blueprint are the most time-efficient way to cover everything the exam tests.

Program in development

We're building a blueprint-complete program for this exam. Meanwhile, explore live programs across 11 exam.

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