Where can you get Construction Certifications?

Construction certifications are credentials awarded to individuals in the construction industry who have demonstrated knowledge, skills, and competency in specific areas related to building or starting a construction company. These certifications are typically provided by professional bodies, industry associations, or educational institutions.

Here are descriptions of certifications along with an approximate price range and duration:

1. Certified Construction Manager (CCM)

This certification demonstrates proficiency in managing all phases of construction projects, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, and resource management. It signifies advanced knowledge in construction project management and is recognized across the industry.

Price Range: $1,000 - $2,500

Duration: Typically requires several years of relevant experience plus passing an exam.

2. Associate Constructor (AC)

Aimed at individuals entering the construction management field, this entry-level certification covers foundational aspects of construction management, preparing new managers for the responsibilities of the job.

Price Range: $200 - $500

Duration: Typically requires completion of a degree in construction management or related field, plus passing an exam.

3. Certified Professional Constructor (CPC)

An advanced certification for seasoned construction managers, the CPC demonstrates deep understanding and skill in managing complex construction projects. It is designed for those who wish to excel in the higher echelons of construction management.

Price Range: $1,500 - $3,000

Duration: Requires several years of experience in construction management, completion of an accredited program, and passing an exam.

4. OSHA Safety Certification

Focuses on occupational safety and health standards, important for anyone involved in construction. It covers hazard recognition, avoidance, and preventive practices. To know about OSHA Violations, click here.

Price Range: $100 - $500 (Cost may vary based on the specific course and provider)

Duration: Varies depending on the course format (e.g., online, in-person) but typically ranges from 10 to 30 hours.

5. LEED Green Associate

Certification for professionals who want to demonstrate expertise in green building practices and principles. This certification is for professionals looking to demonstrate their knowledge in environmentally sustainable building practices and principles. It's a stepping stone to more advanced LEED certifications.

Price Range: $200 - $400

Duration: Requires self-study or completion of a preparatory course, followed by passing an exam.

6. LEED AP Building Design + Construction

Advanced certification for professionals participating in the design and construction phases of green buildings. It requires deeper knowledge of LEED rating systems and sustainable construction practices.

Price Range: $300 - $600

Duration: Requires self-study or completion of a preparatory course, followed by passing an exam.

7. Project Management Professional (PMP)

An internationally recognized certification that covers extensive aspects of project management, including initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closing of projects.

Price Range: $400 - $1,500

Duration: Requires significant project management experience (typically 3-5 years), completion of a PMP exam prep course, and passing the PMP exam.

8. Certified Cost Professional (CCP)

Recognizes expertise in cost management, crucial for budgeting and financial oversight of construction projects. It covers cost estimating, budgeting, and cost control.

Price Range: $1,000 - $2,500

Duration: Requires several years of experience in cost management, completion of an accredited program, and passing an exam.

9. Construction Documents Technologist (CDT)

Ensures understanding of managing and writing construction documents, including specifications, contracts, and drawings, which are vital for the execution of construction projects.

Price Range: $200 - $500

Duration: Requires completion of a self-study program or preparatory course, followed by passing an exam.

10. NCCER Certifications

Offered by the National Center for Construction Education and Research, these certifications cover various trade skills such as carpentry, electrical, and HVAC, tailored to enhance specific skills in the construction trades.

 Price Range: Varies depending on the specific certification and training provider.

 Duration: Duration varies depending on the specific certification, ranging from a few weeks to several months of training and assessment.

11. Certified Electrical Safety Worker (CESW)

The CESW certification focuses on enhancing safety practices related to electrical work within the construction and maintenance sectors. It covers critical topics such as identifying and mitigating electrical hazards, implementing safe work practices, and ensuring compliance with current electrical safety regulations.

Price Range: $300 - $600

Duration: This certification typically requires the completion of a comprehensive training course that culminates in a certification exam. The course aims to arm professionals with the necessary skills to safely manage electrical environments.

12. Certified Plumbing Design Technician (CPDT)

The CPDT certification is designed for professionals specializing in the planning and design of plumbing systems. It encompasses a thorough understanding of plumbing codes, system design, water supply, and waste disposal systems layout.

Price Range: $200 - $500

Duration: Candidates must complete a training program or engage in extensive self-study to prepare for the certification exam, which tests their knowledge and application of plumbing design principles.

13. Certified Energy Manager (CEM)

Recognized globally, the CEM certification validates the expertise of professionals in energy management, including proficiency in energy auditing, implementation of conservation measures, and integration of renewable energy technologies into existing systems.

Price Range: $1,000 - $2,000

Duration: Applicants need to complete an accredited program and have several years of experience in energy management. The certification process concludes with a rigorous exam.

14. Building Performance Institute (BPI)

BPI certifications are designed for professionals improving the energy efficiency of buildings. These certifications cover various aspects of building science, energy auditing, and the implementation of weatherization improvements.

Price Range: $300 - $800 (Cost varies based on the specific certification)

Duration: Requires completion of specific training courses followed by both written and practical exams, focusing on real-world skills applicable to home performance and energy conservation.

15. ACI Certification

Offered by the American Concrete Institute, these certifications demonstrate expertise in concrete field testing, material analysis, and specialized construction practices. They are essential for professionals involved in the inspection and testing of concrete structures.

Price Range: $300 - $800 (Cost varies based on the specific certification)

Duration: Candidates must undergo training courses and successfully pass written and practical exams to prove their proficiency in concrete technology and practices.

16. Scaffold Safety Training

This certification ensures that participants are knowledgeable about scaffold safety, including the correct procedures for assembling, disassembling, and inspecting scaffolding to prevent workplace accidents.

Price Range: $200 - $500

Duration: Typically involves a training course focused on scaffolding safety standards followed by an examination to certify understanding and competency.

17. Certified Firestop Inspector (CFI)

The CFI certification is tailored for inspectors who need to ensure that firestopping systems in buildings meet all required fire safety standards and regulations. This includes knowledge of materials, installation methods, and inspection techniques.

Price Range: $500 - $1,000

Duration: Involves completing a dedicated training program that covers all aspects of firestopping inspection, followed by a comprehensive exam.

18. Roadway Safety Certification

This certification is geared towards professionals involved in managing safety in roadway construction. It covers essential topics such as traffic control, work zone safety, and the adherence to safety regulations and standards.

Price Range: $200 - $500

Duration: Requires participation in a training course that addresses key aspects of roadway safety, culminating in a certification exam.

19. HVAC Excellence Certification

This certification demonstrates a comprehensive understanding of HVAC systems, including installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. It's crucial for technicians working in the heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration industries. Demonstrates proficiency in heating, ventilation, air conditioning, and refrigeration, including installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of HVAC systems.

Price Range: $200 - $500

Duration: Involves completing relevant training courses and passing exams that assess both theoretical knowledge and practical skills.

20. Construction Quality Management for Contractors (CQM-C)

Offered by the Army Corps of Engineers, this certification focuses on managing and ensuring quality on construction projects. It covers quality assurance processes, quality control techniques, and compliance with specific construction standards.

Price Range: $300 - $700

Duration: Typically involves a training course designed to equip contractors with the knowledge to implement quality management systems on projects, followed by an assessment exam. To know how to become a general contractor, click here.