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.

Varies by exam; NATE does not publish time limits on its public pages — confirm with your testing organization

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?

Fees vary. Exam fees are set by the NATE testing organization; live online proctoring prices are shown in the myNATE account. Recertification by CE costs $30 for one certification.

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 — Varies by exam; NATE does not publish time limits on its public pages — confirm with your testing organization.

What do you need to pass the NATE Certification?

70% or higher on each exam.

Can you retake the NATE Certification?

Permitted; CHP-5 candidates may take up to six months between each exam.

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

Start from the official outline and your primary study materials: the exam is weighted by domain (HVAC Fundamentals ~20%, Electrical and Controls ~20%, Comfort and Airflow ~20%, Installation ~20%, Service ~20%). Once you've learned the material, spaced-repetition flashcards organized by those domains are an efficient way to retain it and refresh it before test day.

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