NATE Practice Tests
Free practice tests for the NATE Core exam and NATE specialty exams. Pick a section below, take a timed 30-question test, and read the explanation for every answer.
Core Exam (required)
Service Specialty Exams
Coming soon: Gas Heating Service, Oil Heating Service, Hydronics Gas Service, Hydronics Oil Service, Light Commercial Refrigeration, Commercial Refrigeration
Installation Specialty Exams
Coming soon: AC Installation, Heat Pump Installation, Air Distribution Installation, Gas Heating Installation, Oil Heating Installation
What Is NATE Certification?
NATE (North American Technician Excellence) is the most widely recognized certification for HVACR technicians in the United States. It is not a government license. It is a voluntary certification that shows employers and customers you know how to install and service heating, cooling and refrigeration equipment correctly. Many contractors and equipment manufacturers prefer or require NATE-certified technicians.
How NATE Certification Works
- Pass the Core exam. Core covers safety, tools, basic science, heat transfer, basic electricity and refrigerant basics. Every candidate takes it.
- Pass at least one specialty exam. Choose the area you work in — for example AC Service, Heat Pump Service or Air Distribution Service. Specialties come in installation and service versions.
- Stay certified. Certification lasts two years. Renew with 16 hours of continuing education, or retake the specialty exam.
NATE Exam Format at a Glance
| Exam | Questions | Passing score | Who takes it |
|---|---|---|---|
| Core | 50 | 70% (35 of 50) | Everyone |
| Installation specialty | 100 | 70% (70 of 100) | Installers |
| Service specialty | 100 | 70% (70 of 100) | Service technicians |
Format based on information published by NATE. Always check natex.org for the latest details before booking your exam.
How to Use These Practice Tests
- Start with Core. Core topics show up again inside every specialty, so it is the best place to begin.
- Take each test timed. Every test is 30 questions in 30 minutes, with a 70% pass mark — the same pass mark as the real exam.
- Read every explanation. Even on questions you got right. The explanation tells you why, which is what the real exam tests.
- Move to your specialty. Once you score 80%+ on Core tests, switch to the specialty you plan to take.
- Finish with mixed review. The last test in each section mixes topics into field scenarios, like the real exam.
NATE vs. EPA 608 vs. HVAC Excellence
EPA 608 is required by federal law before you can buy or handle refrigerant. NATE is a voluntary, industry-recognized skills certification. HVAC Excellence is another voluntary certification program, often taken by students in HVAC schools. Most technicians get EPA 608 first, then NATE. Practice for EPA 608 on our EPA 608 practice tests page, and brush up on electrical basics with our HVAC practice tests.
NATE Practice Tests — FAQ
Are these NATE practice tests free?
Yes — completely free with no signup required. Every question includes a full explanation of the correct answer.
How many exams do I need to pass to get NATE certified?
Two: the NATE Core exam plus at least one specialty exam (for example AC Service, Heat Pump Service, or Air Distribution Service). You can take them on the same day or separately.
How many questions are on the NATE exams and what score do I need?
The Core exam has 50 questions and each installation or service specialty exam has 100 questions. You need 70% on each to pass — 35 of 50 on Core and 70 of 100 on a specialty. Check natex.org for the current format before you book.
How long does NATE certification last?
NATE certification lasts two years. To renew, you submit 16 hours of continuing education or retake the specialty exam before your certification expires.
Is this site affiliated with NATE?
No. These are independent practice tests written to match the published NATE exam topics. They are not official NATE exam questions.
NATE is a trademark of North American Technician Excellence, Inc. This site is independent and is not affiliated with or endorsed by NATE.