Career roadmap
How to Become an Appliance Repair Technician
The education, training, certifications and steps it takes to start working as an appliance repair technician, plus how long it takes and where the career can lead.
To become an appliance repair technician: (1) finish high school, (2) learn basic electricity, (3) get hired, (4) earn EPA 608, (5) advance. Most people need about A few months to a year. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education.
5 steps to become an appliance repair technician
Finish high school
Or GED.
Learn basic electricity
Courses.
Get hired
Trainee.
Earn EPA 608
Credential.
Advance
Senior tech or owner.
Education and training requirements
A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
| Typical entry-level education (BLS) | High school diploma or equivalent |
|---|---|
| Related work experience | None |
| On-the-job training | Moderate-term on-the-job training |
| Typical training time | A few months to a year |
Certifications and licenses
- EPA 608 certification: Required for refrigerants.
- NASTeC certification: Appliance technician credential.
- Manufacturer training: Brand-specific.
- Gas appliance training: Helpful.
Skills to build now
Start with electrical troubleshooting, refrigeration, and wiring diagrams, and practice customer service and problem-solving. Learning the appliance repair technician vocabulary early makes training and interviews easier.
Where the career can lead
- Trainee: Entry.
- Technician: Repair.
- Senior Technician: Complex repairs.
- Service Manager or Owner: Lead.
Get a head start
Our self-paced Appliance Repair Technician training gives you a realistic, practical overview of the job (duties, terminology, step-by-step tasks, safety and interview prep) so you can decide with confidence and show employers you’re serious.
Common questions about getting started
How long does it take to become an appliance repair technician?
Most people need about A few months to a year of training. A high school diploma and moderate on-the-job training are typical.
Do you need a degree to be an appliance repair technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “high school diploma or equivalent” as the typical entry-level education, plus moderate-term on-the-job training.
What certifications are available for appliance repair technicians?
Common credentials include EPA 608 certification, NASTeC certification, Manufacturer training, and Gas appliance training. Technicians who handle refrigerants must hold EPA Section 608 certification.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 49-9031 (Home appliance repairers).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Home appliance repairers (U.S. Department of Labor).
- BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook.
Reviewed by the Career Education Institute Curriculum Team. Pay figures are national estimates; local pay varies. See our editorial policy.