Top 11 Apprentice Certifications

Certifications are important for apprentices because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and skill that employers look for when hiring. Certifications provide proof that an apprentice has the necessary qualifications to perform certain tasks, making them more attractive to potential employers. They also show that the apprentice is committed to their trade and willing to invest in their professional development. By obtaining certifications, apprentices can increase their chances of finding employment and can even be eligible for higher pay or better job opportunities. Additionally, certifications can open up new career paths, such as advanced positions or specialized roles within the industry.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Apprentices and explains how they can contribute to an apprentice's career development and success.

What are Apprentice Certifications?

Apprentice certification is a formal credential that recognizes an individual's knowledge and skills in a particular trade or profession. It is awarded by organizations or professional associations that certify individuals based on their experience, education, and mastery of specific skills related to the trade or profession. Apprenticeship certification can be beneficial for those who are looking to advance their careers in the trades or professions they are interested in. With certification, individuals can demonstrate their expertise to employers and potential customers, which may lead to better job opportunities and higher wages. Certification also provides a way for individuals to stay up-to-date with current industry standards and best practices, allowing them to remain competitive in their field. Finally, certification can also give individuals greater confidence in their abilities as well as a sense of pride and accomplishment.

Pro Tip: When applying for an apprenticeship, be sure to research the certification requirements in your area and make sure you meet them. Having the right certification can help increase your chances of being hired and ensure you have the right skillset for the job.

Related: What does an Apprentice do?

Top 11 Apprentice Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Apprentices today.

1. Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS)

Microsoft Office Specialist (MOS) is a certification program offered by Microsoft that validates an individual’s skills in the use of Microsoft Office applications. It is designed to demonstrate proficiency in the use of Microsoft Office applications such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Access and Outlook.

The MOS certification exam typically takes one to two hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. The exam can be taken at any authorized testing center or online through Pearson VUE. The cost for the exam varies depending on the version of Microsoft Office being tested.

To obtain the MOS certification, individuals must pass one or more exams that test their knowledge and skills in using specific versions of Microsoft Office products. Each exam focuses on a different set of features within each application and requires a passing score of 700 out of 1000 possible points. After successfully completing an exam, individuals will receive a digital badge from Microsoft that can be displayed on their résumé or other professional documents to demonstrate their expertise in using Microsoft Office products.

The cost for taking the MOS certification exams can range anywhere from $65 - $150 per exam depending on which version of Microsoft Office you are testing for.

2. Adobe Certified Associate (ACA)

Adobe Certified Associate (ACA) is an industry-recognized certification program that validates digital communication skills using Adobe’s design and media products. This certification is designed to help individuals demonstrate proficiency in the most popular Adobe applications, like Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign, Dreamweaver, and Animate. With an ACA certification, professionals can showcase their expertise and stand out from the competition.

The amount of time it takes to get an ACA certification will vary depending on the individual's experience with Adobe products. Generally speaking, it should take anywhere from 2-4 weeks to complete the necessary training and pass the exam.

To get an ACA certification, individuals must first complete a series of courses or tutorials on the relevant Adobe product(s). Once they have completed this training, they must then pass a 50-question multiple-choice exam administered by Certiport. The exam covers topics such as file management, image optimization, typography principles and more.

The cost of getting an ACA certification varies depending on where you take your exam and which product(s) you are certifying for. Generally speaking, exams range in price from $99 - $150 per product.

3. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ is an industry-leading certification for IT professionals. It validates the knowledge and skills needed to install, configure, maintain, troubleshoot and repair computers and other related technologies. The CompTIA A+ certification is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates technical expertise in computer hardware and software.

The CompTIA A+ certification typically takes around three months to complete, depending on the individual’s experience level and study habits. To obtain the certification, individuals must pass two exams: 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2). Both exams are 90 minutes long with a maximum of 90 questions each.

To prepare for the exams, individuals can take online courses or attend instructor-led classes. There are also many books available to help prepare for the tests. Additionally, there are practice tests available online that can be used to gauge an individual’s readiness for the real exam.

The cost of obtaining the CompTIA A+ certification varies depending on how you choose to prepare for it. Online courses usually range from $200-$500 while instructor-led classes can cost anywhere from $400-$1,000 or more depending on where you take them. Books typically range from $20-$50 each while practice tests can cost anywhere from $30-$60 per exam.

4. Network+ Certification

Network+ Certification is a globally-recognized certification offered by CompTIA (Computing Technology Industry Association). It is designed to validate the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in networking technologies. The Network+ certification covers topics such as network architecture, network operations, network security, troubleshooting, and disaster recovery.

The Network+ exam typically takes about 90 minutes to complete and consists of 90 multiple-choice questions. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least nine months of experience in network support or administration or hold an A+ certification.

To get the Network+ certification, applicants must pass the Network+ exam with a score of 720 or higher on a scale from 100 to 900. The cost of taking the exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $250-$300 USD.

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your official Network+ Certificate and can use it to demonstrate your expertise in networking technologies to employers and clients.

5. Security+ Certification

Security+ Certification is a globally recognized certification that validates the skills and knowledge of IT professionals in the field of information security. It is designed to ensure that individuals have the knowledge and skills necessary to identify security risks, implement security technologies, and respond to security incidents.

The Security+ exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately 90 minutes to complete. The exam covers topics such as network security, cryptography, access control, authentication, disaster recovery, and more. To earn the Security+ certification, candidates must pass the exam with a score of at least 750 out of 900 points.

To get started on your path towards earning the Security+ certification, you will need to register for an account with CompTIA (the organization that administers the exam). After registering for an account, you can purchase study materials or sign up for a training course from CompTIA or another vendor. Once you are ready to take the exam, you can register for it through CompTIA's website and schedule an appointment at a local testing center.

The cost of taking the Security+ exam varies depending on where you take it. In general, it costs around $300 USD for U.S.-based test takers and $250 USD for international test takers. Additionally, some vendors may offer discounts on their training courses if you purchase them in combination with the exam registration fee.

6. Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE Programmer

Oracle Certified Professional, Java SE Programmer (OCPJP) is an industry-recognized certification for Java developers. This certification verifies that the candidate has a comprehensive understanding of the core language and APIs used to develop Java applications. It also demonstrates that the individual has a working knowledge of object-oriented concepts, design patterns, and coding principles.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the OCPJP exam. Candidates should have at least two years of experience in developing Java applications using the language and associated APIs. The preparation involves studying topics such as object-oriented programming, collections framework, threading, JDBC, generics, annotations, and more.

To obtain the certification, candidates must pass one exam: Oracle Certified Professional Java SE 11 Programmer I (1Z0-815). The exam consists of 85 multiple choice questions which must be completed in 150 minutes. It costs $245 USD to take this exam.

7. Autodesk Certified User (ACU)

Autodesk Certified User (ACU) is a certification program that recognizes the skills and knowledge of individuals who have demonstrated proficiency with Autodesk software. The certification is designed to validate the user’s ability to use Autodesk tools and features, as well as their understanding of basic design principles.

The ACU certification process typically takes between two and four hours to complete. It consists of a series of online assessments that cover topics such as 2D drawing, 3D modeling, rendering, animation, and other related topics. To become certified, users must score at least 80% on each assessment.

In order to get an ACU certification, users must first register for the program through Autodesk's website. Once registered, they will be able to access the assessments and begin the process of becoming certified. After completing all of the assessments, users will receive their certificate via email within two weeks.

The cost for an ACU certification varies depending on which version of Autodesk software you are using. For example, if you are using AutoCAD 2020 then it will cost $99 USD for a single-user license or $299 USD for a multi-user license.

8. Project Management Professional (PMP)

Project Management Professional (PMP) is a professional certification offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is one of the most widely recognized and sought-after credentials in project management. PMP certification demonstrates an individual’s knowledge, experience, and competency in leading and directing projects.

It takes approximately three to six months to prepare for the PMP exam, depending on your level of familiarity with project management principles and practices. To be eligible to take the exam, you must have at least three years of experience leading and directing projects as well as 35 hours of formal project management education.

To get PMP certified, you must complete an application process that includes submitting proof of your eligibility requirements (e.g., education, experience). Once approved, you can register for the exam through PMI’s website. The cost for taking the exam is $405 for members of PMI or $555 for non-members.

9. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is a certification program designed to provide individuals with an introduction to core technology concepts. It is a great way for those who are just starting out in the IT field to gain knowledge and experience in the Microsoft technologies.

The MTA certification consists of three exams that cover topics such as Windows Server, Networking Fundamentals, Security Fundamentals, and Software Development Fundamentals. Each exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and must be taken at an authorized testing center. The cost of each exam varies depending on the location but typically ranges from $50-$90 USD.

It usually takes about two months to complete all three exams and receive your MTA certification. To get started, you will need to register for the exams through Microsoft’s website or an authorized testing center. Once you have registered, you will be able to access study materials and practice tests online that can help you prepare for the exams. After passing all three exams, you will receive your MTA certification which can be used as proof of your knowledge in core Microsoft technologies.

10. Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician (CCENT)

Cisco Certified Entry Network Technician (CCENT) is a certification program designed to provide entry-level network support personnel with the skills and knowledge needed to install, operate, and troubleshoot a small enterprise branch network. It is the first step towards achieving the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification.

To get CCENT certified, you must pass the ICND1 exam. The exam covers topics such as basic networking fundamentals, configuring and troubleshooting routers and switches, IP addressing schemes, routing protocols, WAN technologies, and more. The exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and costs $125 USD.

The process of getting CCENT certified typically takes between three to six months depending on your study habits and how much time you are able to dedicate to studying for the exam. To prepare for the exam, it is recommended that you take an official training course from Cisco or use self-study materials such as books or online resources.

11. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is a certification offered by the EC-Council, an international organization that sets standards for ethical hacking and computer security. The CEH credential is designed to help professionals demonstrate their knowledge of network security and ethical hacking techniques. It is one of the most sought after certifications in the information security industry.

The CEH certification requires applicants to complete a five-day training course, which covers topics such as network scanning, vulnerability assessment, system hacking, web application hacking, and more. After completing the course, applicants must pass a four-hour exam with 125 multiple-choice questions to become certified.

To get the CEH certification, you must first register for the training course through an approved training provider or take an online self-study program. The cost of the training varies depending on where you take it but typically ranges from $1,500-$2,500 USD. After completing the training course and passing the exam, you will be awarded your CEH certification.

The cost of taking the exam is $950 USD and can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center around the world. Once you have passed your exam and received your certificate, there are no additional fees or membership requirements associated with maintaining your certification status.

Do You Really Need a Apprentice Certificate?

Whether you need an apprentice certificate or not depends on your individual situation. If you are looking to enter a trade that requires certification, such as plumbing, electrician, HVAC technician, or auto mechanic, then completing an apprenticeship is the best way to get the necessary qualifications. An apprenticeship provides you with hands-on experience and instruction in the field so that you can become proficient in the job. It also allows you to learn from experienced professionals who have spent years honing their craft.

In some cases, an apprenticeship may be unnecessary if you already possess similar skills or knowledge from another profession. For example, if you are a carpenter who has been working for years and want to transition into plumbing, it may not be necessary to complete an apprenticeship program since much of the same material will likely be covered in both trades. However, it is important to check with your local licensing board to determine what is required before making any decisions about whether or not an apprenticeship certificate is necessary for your particular situation.

Finally, if you are simply looking for a job that does not require certification but still provides a good income and sense of satisfaction, then it may not be necessary to obtain an apprentice certificate at all. Many employers value experience more than anything else and will often overlook a lack of formal training if they feel confident that the applicant can perform the job well.

Ultimately, whether or not you need an apprentice certificate will depend on your own individual situation and goals. It is important to research thoroughly and make sure that obtaining this certification is right for you before committing time and money into pursuing it.

Related: Apprentice Resume Examples

FAQs About Apprentice Certifications

1. What is an Apprentice Certification?

Answer: An Apprentice Certification is a credential that demonstrates a person has achieved a certain level of competency in a specific trade or craft. It typically involves completing both on-the-job training and classroom instruction.

2. How do I get an Apprentice Certification?

Answer: The process of obtaining an apprentice certification varies depending on the type of trade or craft you are seeking certification in. Generally, it requires completing an apprenticeship program, which includes both on-the-job training and classroom instruction, as well as passing any necessary examinations or tests.

3. How long does it take to get an Apprentice Certification?

Answer: The length of time required to get an apprentice certification can depend on the type of trade or craft you are pursuing certification in, as well as your own individual level of knowledge and experience. Generally speaking, most apprenticeships last between two and five years, with some programs lasting up to seven years.

4. Are there any costs associated with getting an Apprentice Certification?

Answer: Yes, there may be costs associated with getting an apprentice certification such as fees for tools and materials needed for the training program or examination fees if required by the certifying body. Additionally, some individuals may need to pay for travel expenses if they have to attend classes away from home or other related costs such as textbooks and course materials.

5. What types of jobs require an Apprentice Certification?

Answer: Apprenticeships are available in a variety of trades including carpentry, plumbing, electrical work, automotive repair, HVAC (heating ventilation air conditioning) systems installation and maintenance, welding and machining technology among others.