HVAC & RefrigerationFederal certification84 free questions
EPA 608 Frequently Asked Questions
- How many questions are on the EPA 608 exam?
- Each section has 25 multiple-choice questions. Universal certification means passing Core plus Type I, II and III — 100 questions in total. You need 18 of 25 correct on each section.
- Does EPA 608 certification expire?
- No. Once you pass, certification is valid for life and is recognized in every state. If you lose your card, your certifying organization can issue a replacement.
- Can I take the EPA 608 test online?
- Type I can be taken online without a proctor through some organizations. Type II, Type III and Universal must be proctored — many providers offer live online proctoring so you can still test from home.
- Is the EPA 608 exam open book?
- No, except for some Type I-only exams. Core, Type II, Type III and Universal are closed-book.
- What is the difference between EPA 608 and EPA 609?
- Section 608 covers stationary refrigeration and air conditioning. Section 609 covers motor vehicle air conditioning (MVAC). They are separate certifications with separate exams.
- Are CertReady's questions the real exam questions?
- No. All questions on CertReady are original practice material written to cover the same topics and numbers as the official exam. CertReady is not affiliated with the EPA or any certifying organization.
- What is the EPA 608 passing score?
- 18 of 25 questions (72%) on each section you attempt. Universal requires that score on Core and on Type I, II and III separately — not as an average.
- What is the difference between Type I, Type II and Type III?
- Type I is factory-sealed small appliances with 5 lb or less. Type II is high-pressure equipment such as split systems and racks. Type III is low-pressure chillers. Universal is Core plus all three. See the Type 1 vs Type 2 guide on CertReady.
- Do I need EPA 608 to buy refrigerant?
- Yes for most regulated refrigerants. Sales are restricted to Section 608 certified technicians. Motor-vehicle small cans follow Section 609 rules instead.
- How much does the EPA 608 test cost?
- EPA does not set a national fee. Approved organizations typically charge on the order of $20–$150 depending on how many sections you sit and whether you test in person or with online proctoring.
- Should I take Universal or just Type II?
- If you only service field-charged HVAC, Core plus Type II is the legal minimum. Most employers still want Universal so you can also open small appliances and chillers. You can add types later without retaking sections you already passed.