Choose by the equipment you will actually service
Section 608 certification types are tied to appliance categories. Select the closest match. If your work spans categories, Universal usually provides the broadest stationary-equipment coverage.
Fast decision table
| Work | Normal route | What must be passed |
|---|---|---|
| Small factory-sealed appliances | Type I | Core + Type I |
| High/very-high-pressure stationary systems | Type II | Core + Type II |
| Low-pressure chillers | Type III | Core + Type III |
| All stationary categories | Universal | Core + Types I, II, III |
| Motor vehicle A/C | Section 609 | Separate approved 609 program and test |
Do not buy an “R-410A certification” as a substitute for Section 608. EPA certification is based on appliance type. A refrigerant-specific class may be useful training, but it is not the federal Section 608 credential.