Your complete guide to becoming an HVAC technician in Illinois: compare 3 accredited schools, salary data, licensing requirements, and apprenticeships.
3
Schools
$55,120
Median Salary
16,280
HVAC Jobs
Not Required
State License
Key Takeaways
To become an HVAC technician in Illinois, complete training at one of 3 accredited schools, earn EPA Section 608 certification, and meet state requirements. The median HVAC technician salary in Illinois is $55,120, 13.3% above the U.S. median.
3 accredited HVAC schools in Illinois
Median pay $55,120/yr · top earners $79,640/yr
Illinois does not require a separate statewide HVAC license, though EPA Section 608 certification is still federally required to handle refrigerants.
Registered apprenticeships available — get paid while you train
Overview
HVAC Careers in Illinois
The median HVAC technician salary in Illinois is $55,120, 13.3% above the U.S. median. Illinois does not require a separate statewide HVAC license, though EPA Section 608 certification is still federally required to handle refrigerants. Illinois employs roughly 16,280 HVAC mechanics and installers, and demand is driven by ongoing construction, equipment replacement cycles, and the R-410A to A2L refrigerant transition.
Schools
Top HVAC Schools in Illinois
Accredited programs in Illinois, ranked by rating and reviews.
Quick answers about HVAC training, pay, and licensing in Illinois.
How many HVAC schools are there in Illinois?
HVACSchoolGuide.com tracks 3 accredited HVAC schools in Illinois, offering certificate, diploma, and associate-degree programs as well as EPA 608 exam prep.
How much do HVAC technicians make in Illinois?
The median HVAC technician wage in Illinois is $55,120 per year ($27.13/hr mean). Top earners (90th percentile) make $79,640.
Do you need a license to do HVAC work in Illinois?
Illinois does not require a separate statewide HVAC license, though EPA Section 608 certification is still federally required to handle refrigerants.
How long does HVAC school take in Illinois?
Most HVAC certificate and diploma programs take 6–12 months, while associate degrees take 18–24 months. Apprenticeships run 3–5 years but pay you while you train.
Are HVAC apprenticeships available in Illinois?
Yes. Illinois offers registered HVAC apprenticeships that combine paid on-the-job training with classroom instruction, and the hours can count toward state licensing experience requirements.
Next Step
Start Your HVAC Career in Illinois.
Compare accredited HVAC schools in Illinois, request information, and get matched with programs enrolling now.