FAQ
Audio and Video Technician FAQ
Answers to the most common questions about working as an audio and video technician.
Straight answers to the questions people ask most about becoming an audio and video technician: pay, training time, degrees, certifications and whether it’s a good career.
9 questions about audio and video technicians
Do AV techs need a degree?
Not usually.
What is the CTS?
AVIXA’s Certified Technology Specialist credential.
Is AV work steady?
Yes, especially in hotels, corporations and venues.
How much does an audio and video technician make?
The median annual wage for audio and video technicians was $58,100 ($27.93 per hour) in May 2025, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The lowest 10% earned less than $37,990 and the highest 10% earned more than $100,650.
How long does it take to become an audio and video technician?
Most people need about 3–12 months of training. A postsecondary certificate is common; many technicians learn on the job.
Do you need a degree to be an audio and video technician?
No four-year degree is typically required. BLS lists “postsecondary nondegree award” as the typical entry-level education, plus short-term on-the-job training.
Is audio and video technician a good career?
It can be, depending on your goals. Employment is projected to change +3.9% from 2025–35 (about as fast as average), with about 6,600 openings each year. Upsides include variety of events; a common challenge is that long event days.
What skills does an audio and video technician need?
Key technical skills include audio mixing, video switching, projection and displays, and streaming systems. Employers also value calm under pressure, customer service, and teamwork.
What certifications are available for audio and video technicians?
Common credentials include AVIXA CTS, Dante certification, Manufacturer certifications, and OSHA 10. Requirements vary by state and employer.
Still deciding?
Try the Audio and Video Technician fit quiz, compare with Sound Engineer, or explore Audio and Video Technician training.
Sources
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Occupational Employment and Wage Statistics (OEWS), May 2025, SOC 27-4011 (Audio and video technicians).
- U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, BLS Employment Projections, Table 1.2 (2025–35).
- O*NET OnLine summary for Audio and video technicians (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.