FAQS - General

What is a professional certificate?

A professional certificate is an earned credential explaining that the named holder possesses certain knowledge and/or specific skills. While they can be issued internally by companies to their employees or tied to certain products (such as IT certifications), the processional certificates indicated here are recognized across an entire professional field. They often require job experience, additional education, and testing requirements. In short, when individuals see that you have a certificate, they understand that you know how to do a specific job. 

Because certifications are intended to remain unconnected to any individual employers, it is important to select a well-respected credentialing organization. NREPSM is recognized by multiple government agencies, branches of the military, and state governments. 

Do online certifications matter?

Some certifying organizations do not provide certifications in a traditional, face-to-face, classroom setting. Instead, they use either prerecorded or online workshops delivered over the internet. The most important part of a certification is the organization providing the credentialing in most cases, not the method by which the information is delivered. Verify the program you’re interested in comes from a reputable certifying body. 

Who is Environmental Certification For?

Environmental certifications are designed for individuals currently working or desiring to work in the environmental industry. NREPSM offers 23 different certifications in varying degrees of specialization, from generalist certifications such as Registered Environmental Professional®® to more specified designations such as Mold Awareness Specialist, Certified Environmental and Safety Financial Officer, and Registered Environmental Laboratory Technologist. Many programs offered by NREPSM allow for relevant work experience to be substituted for educational requirements. 

Are all Environmental Certifications the same?

No. Each certification will differ in content reviewed or taught, amount of work experience required, amount of education required, and difficulty of testing. Additionally, every certification will be viewed differently based on the certifying body that issued it. NREPSM has existed since 1987 and is the oldest and most recognized environmental nonprofit credentialing organization. 

What are the benefits of being certified?

An NREPSM credential can distinguish you as the most qualified to perform tasks of protecting, preserving and managing the environment. NREPSM provides many other benefits to certified members. These benefits include:

  1. Listing within NREP'SMs Official Registry of Environmental Professionals

  2. Certification of your qualifications by NREPSM to clients, employers and governmental agencies

  3. Opportunities for career advancement, including promotions and pay increases

  4. Recognition of environmental knowledge and experience by many city, state, and federal government agencies. Including:

    • United States Department of Energy (DOE)

    • United States Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

    • United States Air Force

    • United States National Guard

    • United States Army

    • State of Alabama

    • State of Texas

  5. Committee participation dealing with exam and credential development, national conferences, environmental education programs, local and regional affiliated organizations

Why should I consider certification?

Certifications are an excellent way to show that you are keeping your expertise up to date with current trends and required skills within your respective industry. Professionals seek certifications for many other reasons, some of which include:

  1. They show that your skills are current

  2. They provide you with personal satisfaction that you’ve mastered new material

  3. They show initiative, when certifying is not required

  4. They separate you from your peers 

  5. They can advance your career and improve your chances of promotion

  6. They verify to management that your skills have been validated

  7. They raise management’s confidence in your level of professional expertise

How and by whom are the certifications administered?

NREPSM programs are administered by the National Registry of Environmental Professionals®, headquartered in Glenview, IL. Completed applications, along with additional necessary documentation, are submitted to the Application Review Board for eligibility. Those meeting the eligibility requirements are then approved to attend a workshop and take the exam, take a computerized exam or granted the certification (Grandfathering Opportunities).

Upon successful passing of the exam, NREPSM issues a certificate to the candidate.  

Will I get full refund if I am no more interested to give exam?

NREPSM doesn't provide full refund after candidates makes the complete payment for their application and examination. In case we do return any funds, NREPSM keeps the application fee.