How Do You Get NCCER Certified? A Step-by-Step Guide

If you’re planning a career in the electrical field, earning a certification from the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) may help set you apart.

Recognized nationwide, NCCER is a nonprofit education foundation that provides standardized training and credentials in fields like construction, electrical work and more. In fact, many employers require these credentials.

In this guide, we’ll walk you through how to get NCCER certified, explain the different types of certifications available to those interested in the electrical field, and highlight how to prepare.

What Is NCCER Certification?

NCCER certification is an industry-recognized credential that proves you’ve completed standardized training and passed performance evaluations in your trade.

NCCER certifications are trusted by employers, unions and apprenticeship programs across the U.S. and are backed by a national registry that tracks your credentials over time.

The organization offers multiple credentials, and each verifies that you have met rigorous standards in both technical knowledge and hands-on skills—potentially improving your prospects and advancement opportunities in your chosen industry.

List of NCCER Certifications

There are several types of NCCER certifications, each requiring a certain set of technical knowledge and hands-on skills. When it comes to the electrical field, the following certifications are the most common and the best place to start!

1. NCCER Electrical Level 1

This NCCER electrical certification shows that candidates understand basic electrical theory, wiring methods and safety practices essential for any entry-level electrical technician role.

The credential tests knowledge in topics like DC/AC theory, electrical drawings, device boxes and conduit bending. Candidates should also be familiar with blueprints and the National Electrical Code (NEC) standards—skills that are crucial on real job sites.

To earn the credential, you must pass both a written knowledge exam and a performance-based assessment that tests your ability to apply your skills in a practical setting. Becoming NCCER certified at this level opens the door to entry-level electrical roles and can help put you on track toward higher-level certifications and more advanced roles.

2. NCCER Electrical Level 2

The NCCER Electrical Level 2 credential tests candidates’ knowledge of residential and commercial electrical systems. Candidates should have knowledge of topics like advanced conduit bending, conductor installations, pull boxes, overcurrent protection, grounding, bonding and load calculations.

Like Level 1, the credential requires completion of a written exam and a hands-on assessment to prove competency in intermediate-level electrical skills.

Earning Electrical Level 2 certification signals to employers that a candidate is qualified for more specialized work and may be prepared to work as an electrical technician in fields like industrial maintenance and robotics.

3. Electronics Systems Technician Level 3

Those who obtain the NCCER Electrical Level 2 credential can test for the Electronics Systems Technician (EST) Level 3 certification.

This certification proves technicians are qualified to work on home theater systems, intercoms, data networks, security alarm installations and more. It covers cable types and terminations, system integration, installation practices and troubleshooting techniques specific to low-voltage systems.

Preparing for this credential typically involves completing Levels 1 and 2 of the Electrical Certifications and gaining hands-on experience with electronic installations. Certification involves both a written and practical exam.

Technicians who earn this credential are well-positioned for careers in home automation, IT systems and smart security integration.

4. Electronics Systems Technician Level 4

EST Level 4 is the final step in the NCCER Electronic Systems Technician series. Candidates can test for interim credentials in two distinct career plans: audio, video and data or life safety and security.

This level is ideal for those aiming to become lead installers, project managers or system designers.

Those preparing for Level 4 should have completed the previous levels and gained field experience. This credential can serve as a career milestone for electrical techs seeking to deepen their specialization.

The certification process includes an exam and performance evaluation, which ensures that technicians not only understand system functionality but can implement and troubleshoot these systems with confidence in real environments.

5. NCCER Safety Certification

The NCCER Safety Certification was designed to promote a culture of safety on job sites by ensuring certification holders have in-depth training on OSHA standards, hazard recognition, safety planning and compliance.

To become certified, individuals must pass a knowledge exam covering construction safety regulations and demonstrate safe practices in hands-on environments. Having a recognized safety credential not only boosts employability but may be required for certain roles—especially in industrial, commercial and government-regulated worksites.

6. Other NCCER Certifications

Beyond electrical and safety, NCCER offers a wide range of certifications covering the construction and skilled trades industry. This includes credentials in HVAC, welding, pipefitting, plumbing, carpentry, heavy equipment operation, industrial maintenance and more.

Each program includes hands-on assessments and written exams to validate technical and safety knowledge.

Earning multiple NCCER credentials can increase job versatility, qualify workers for cross-functional roles, and demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning—something that many employers value in the trades.

How Do You Get NCCER Certified?

1. Find an NCCER-accredited training provider

Start by locating a school or training center that’s authorized to offer NCCER certification. Universal Technical Institute offers an Electrical, Electronics, & Industrial Technology program and is an NCCER-recognized provider, meaning its programs meet national standards and include an official NCCER curriculum.¹³⁰

Students of this program can graduate with select NCCER credentials, along with other valuable credentials like the American Heart Association's (AHA) certification for CPR and AED and the OSHA 10 certification for workplace safety!

2. Enroll in NCCER-approved courses

Once you’ve selected a provider, enroll in courses that align with your career goals. At UTI, students can gain technical knowledge and hands-on practice needed to become certified during their electrical courses.

3. Pass the NCCER knowledge & performance exams

Each NCCER certification requires you to:

• Pass a written (knowledge-based) exam with a 70% or better.
• Successfully complete a hands-on (performance-based) assessment.

These tests ensure you’ve mastered both the theory and the practical application of the topic at hand.

4. Receive your NCCER certification card

After successfully passing both assessments, you’ll receive your NCCER certification card, also known as a wallet card. This card is proof of your certification and is tracked in the NCCER Registry, so employers can verify your credentials.

Why Get NCCER Certified?

Becoming NCCER certified can unlock several career benefits, such as:

• Improve job prospects in hands-on fields like electrical and construction.
• Meet employer requirements for safety or skills certifications.
• Qualify for more advanced positions or leadership roles.
• Gain national recognition through the NCCER registry.

Whether you’re new to the trades or looking to grow your skills, NCCER certification helps validate your abilities and adds value to your resume.

NCCER credentials also travel with you—so if you relocate, your certification remains valid and recognized across the country.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long does it take to earn an NCCER certification?

You can train for and earn most NCCER certifications in months. This depends on the program length you’ve chosen. UTI’s NCCER-accredited electrical program is just 12 months.

What is the NCCER certification card, and how do I get one?

The NCCER certification card is an official wallet-sized card issued once you complete your training and pass your assessments. It proves that you are NCCER certified and is linked to your profile in the national registry.

Does NCCER certification expire?

NCCER certifications do not expire, but some employers may require refresher training, especially for safety certifications. Your credentials remain in the NCCER Registry System as long as your records are up to date.

Learn How To Get NCCER Certified at UTI

UTI offers an NCCER-aligned training program that helps students prepare for certification in the electrical field. With UTI, your certification prep will include:

• Learning from NCCER-certified instructors.
• Training under an NCCER-recognized curriculum.
• Preparing for both knowledge-based and performance-based exams.
• Testing for your NCCER certification card while still in school.

Ready to get started? Request more information and an Admissions Rep will reach out to hear your goals, answer your questions and tell you more about how UTI’s Electrical, Electronics, & Industrial Technology program can prepare you for NCCER credentials.