HVAC technicians are skilled tradespeople who install, repair, and maintain heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration systems. These systems are essential in both residential and commercial settings, particularly in Florida’s hot and humid climate, where air conditioning is a necessity year-round. Technicians interpret blueprints, troubleshoot mechanical issues, and ensure the safe and efficient operation of climate control systems. With the introduction of smart thermostats and internet-connected HVAC technologies, modern technicians must also possess digital troubleshooting and automation integration skills3.
Yes, all HVAC technicians in Florida must obtain either a State Certified or State Registered HVAC license before performing work. These licenses are issued under the Florida Department of Business and Professional Regulation (DBPR)4. Here are the main distinctions:
To qualify for either license, individuals must:
| Eligibility Requirements | Details |
|---|---|
| Age | At least 18 years old54 |
| Education | High school diploma or GED equivalent54 |
| Training | Complete a state-approved HVAC training program, such as those offered at Lorenzo Walker Technical College64 |
| Experience | Varies based on license level—higher-level certifications require more experience and hands-on hours34 |
| Examination | Pass both a Trade and Business and Law exam with a minimum score of 75%74 |
In addition to the official license, many professionals pursue HVAC Excellence certification, which recognizes subcategories like Residential Heat Pump Systems or Master Ventilation Specialist. The Professional Level requires two years of experience, while the Master Specialist Level demands three years and proof of prior certification3.
Becoming an HVAC technician in Naples typically involves a mix of formal training, hands-on apprenticeship, and licensing exams. Here’s a breakdown of estimated timelines:
| Education/Training Path | Timeframe |
|---|---|
| Introductory HVAC/R Course | 15 weeks (1 night/week) |
| Advanced HVAC/R Certificate | 250–750 total training hours across multiple courses |
| Associate Degree in HVAC Technology | 2 years |
| Apprenticeship and Work Experience | 2–4 years (dependent on license level) 4 |
If you choose an accelerated path with concurrent training and employment, you could be job-ready in under a year. For those pursuing comprehensive associate degrees and full state certification, the full journey may take up to 2–4 years4.
Initial training at institutions like Collier Adult Education or Lorenzo Walker Technical College ranges between $4,000 and $15,000 depending on the length and depth of the program. State licensing typically includes exam fees, application fees, and renewal costs that average $300–$500 annually, depending on the license type4. Additional certifications through organizations like HVAC Excellence may incur further costs of $200–$500 per exam or credential3.
While these costs exist, more than 150 HVAC jobs are currently available in Naples, FL with hourly wages starting around $18/hour and climbing to $40/hour for experienced installers, with top earners reaching salaries of $85,000+ annually2. This makes the investment in training a strong economic decision.
Gaining work experience is crucial for licensing in Florida. Fortunately, Naples has numerous opportunities for budding HVAC professionals:
Once employed or placed in an apprenticeship, individuals can begin accumulating the required work experience for Florida licensing.
In 2025, the HVAC market in Naples is experiencing strong growth, driven by a national shortage of close to 110,000 unfilled HVAC vacancies, increasing regulatory complexity around refrigerant changes, and the ongoing construction boom in Collier County.
Naples HVAC technicians can expect the following compensation breakdown:
Further, job growth in HVAC is projected quarterly, with over 157 job listings on Indeed in June of 2025 alone, making it one of the fastest-growing trades in Southwest Florida1.
With HVAC demand rising due to smart home integrations, refrigerant regulation changes, and the continued expansion of energy-efficient and sustainable HVAC systems, skilled technicians can expect even more demand for their services across all seasons. Technicians who become certified in IoT, smart thermostat integration, energy efficiency management, and refrigeration upgrades are likely to see the most growth and earning potential by 2025 and beyond.
Skilled HVAC professionals may advance to:
The move from technician to supervisor or business owner is possible within four to seven years, depending on skills, certifications, and business acumen.
If you're ready to break into the HVAC trade in Naples, Florida, here’s what to do:
With over 150 HVAC jobs currently open in Naples, and a field set to grow by 9% nationwide by 2033, there is significant demand for skilled technicians. Whether you're starting from scratch or looking to shift careers, Florida's HVAC credentials and training pathways offer a solid—and growing—foundation for your livelihood. Start today and secure your place in this booming trade by visiting Gild to find your future job or apprenticeship in Naples, Florida.
https://www.glassdoor.com/Job/north-naples-hvac-jobs-SRCH_IL.0,12_IC3815994_KO13,17.htm ↩ ↩2
https://www.indeed.com/q-hvac-l-naples,-fl-jobs.html ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4
https://www.workiz.com/blog/hvac/hvac-license-in-florida/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5
https://www.best-trade-schools.net/locations/florida/hvac-technician-in-fl/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3 ↩4 ↩5 ↩6 ↩7 ↩8 ↩9 ↩10 ↩11 ↩12 ↩13
https://www.licensesetc.com/2024/04/09/understanding-florida-hvac-b-contractor-license-guide-ac-companies/ ↩ ↩2 ↩3
