CES - Certified Environmental Scientist

1. What is the Certified Environmental Scientist (CES) certification?

National Registry of Environmental Professionals^®’ Certified Environmental Scientist (CES) is an entry-level program for professionals beginning their careers, as well as those professionals who may not possess a college degree. 

2. Who should get the CES certification?

National Registry of Environmental Professionals^®’ CES certification is for those wishing to pursue a career in environmental management.

3. What prerequisites should you complete in school?

You should pursue a bachelor’s degree in an environmental field, such as environmental engineering, health/science, environmental management, or hazardous materials management.

4. Who is eligible?

To be eligible, you must have either completed the Certificate or Diploma of Environmental Management, or have completed one year in a bachelor’s degree program in an environmental field. This includes environmental engineering, health/science, environmental management, or hazardous materials management. Three years of acceptable work experience may be substituted for each year of an academic degree program. 

5. Is work experience required to be eligible?

Three (3) years of experience directly related to environmental science is mandatory to be eligible for the certification.

6. How do you earn this certification? 

If you meet the education or work experience requirements, you must pass a general knowledge examination on pollution prevention, emergency preparedness, hazardous materials management, chemistry, toxicology, and environmental regulations to earn the credential. The test ensures your competency in explaining environmental regulations, examining and evaluating possible risks, and understanding local, federal, and international environmental law. 

7. What is on the test?

The National Registry of Environmental Professionals^®’ test is an online exam. There are 100 multiple-choice questions, and it is intended to be closed book. You must earn at least 75 percent to pass. Learn more here.

8. How can I prepare for the test? 

National Registry of Environmental Professionals^® offers a study guide for the CES Certification Examination. The guide covers topics such as Air, Water, Waste, Brownfields, Green Chemistry, Radiation, and more. The E-Book is $125: You can also purchase sample questions for this exam for $40: Learn more here.

9. How often do I need to renew the certification?

Renewal must be done after 1 year.

10. Am I required to complete Continuing Education Units (CEU)?

Yes.

11. Can you renew through Re-Examination? 

No.

12. What are the benefits of this certification?

While employers may not require certifications for environmental professionals, earning this credential can enhance your employment opportunities. Earning a certification allows individuals to demonstrate their knowledge, experience, and education in the environmental field. 

13. Do I have to take the test at a testing center, or can it be done remotely (at home)? 

NREP^SM is an online exam and monitored by NREP^SM proctor. You may take your exam anywhere (house/workplace) at your convenience, you just need a computer that supports both audio and video with good internet connection. I will share the guidelines once your exam is scheduled. 

14. How to schedule the exam? 

Once your registration is confirmed you would need to reach out to customer support team at customerservice@nrep.com to schedule your exam. 

15. Validity?

Certificate and Exam application will be valid only till one year from the date of application. Once the application is expired, candidates must apply for the application once again and pay the fees.

16. How long does it take to receive my Certificate?

If you have purchased a digital Certificate, we will mail your certificate to your mailing address registered with NREP^SM. The delivery lead time is approx. up to 10 working days.
FedEx International Priority:
Estimated cost: $80-$100
Estimated delivery time: 7-10business days
USPS Priority Mail International:
Estimated cost: $40-$60
Estimated delivery time: 10-15 business days
 
Please note that these estimate days may vary based on the exact destination, shipping service selected, and any additional services or options chosen. It is recommended to give few buffer days and there might be unexpected delays. You can also reach out to our Customer service team in case of any other concern.