How to Apply

How to Apply for the Solar PV, Solar Thermal and Small Wind Installer Certification Exams

NOTE: NABCEP encourages all candidates for the NABCEP Installer Certification Exams to complete the application electronically. Click here to start the Electronic Application Form process.

1)      First, read the NABCEP Candidate Information Handbook available online for download. Go to:

  • Section 3 for the Solar PV Installer Certification
  • Section 4 for the Solar Thermal Installer Certification
  • Section 5 for the Small Wind Installer Certification

2)      Review the Qualifying Categories after having also read the definition of experience and training which varies by certification. Choose the entry option that best fits your personal background, experience, and training. Be sure you understand the Entry Requirements, the Code of Ethics, the fees, and how to prepare to take the written exam which is offered around the U.S. twice a year.

3)      Review the Application Form (available below or click here to apply online) and prepare the documentation you will need to complete the application.

4)      Fill out the Application Form completely, attaching required copies of permits, inspection certificates, and training transcripts, as well as optional documentation such as letters from customers and employers, photos of systems you’ve installed, etc.

5)      Be sure to sign the application and enclose the $100 application fee.

6)      You will hear back from NABCEP after your application has been reviewed, informing you that you were or were not approved to sit for the exam.

7)      If you are approved, you will be sent, and need to immediately return the EXAM SCHEDULING FORM along with the $300 first-time exam fee.

8)      About three weeks before the scheduled exam date, you will receive your Admission Slip confirming that you are approved to sit for the Exam at your selected test site.

Fees:
(All fees are non-refundable)

Fees for non-electronic applications were raised on July 10th, 2010

Application Fee:                                                                                               $100

Additional Fee for a Paper Application:                                                 $50

First time fee to sit for the any NABCEP certification exam:          $300

Re-examination fee:                                                                                         $200

Recertification Fee (every three years):                                                 $300

Additional Fee for a Paper Application:                                                  $50

Recertification Late Fee:                                                                                $50