EPA Section 608 Certification is the federal certification required by law for any technician who purchases or handles refrigerants used in stationary HVAC and refrigeration equipment. It is mandated under Section 608 of the Clean Air Act.
There are four certification types: Type I (small appliances under 5 lbs of refrigerant), Type II (high-pressure systems like residential AC), Type III (low-pressure systems like centrifugal chillers), and Universal (covers all types).
Certification requires passing a proctored exam administered by an EPA-approved organization such as ESCO Group, HVAC Excellence, or Refrigerant Management Canada. The certification does not expire. Without it, technicians cannot legally purchase refrigerants in containers over 2 lbs.