Top 11 Audio Visual Technician Certifications

Certifications for audio visual technicians are important for a variety of reasons. First, certifications prove that the technician has a certain level of expertise and knowledge in the field. This gives employers confidence in the technician’s ability to perform their job correctly and efficiently. Additionally, certifications can provide an edge over other applicants who may not have them, making it easier for the certified technician to land jobs. Finally, having certifications may qualify technicians for higher-paying positions or specialized roles within a company. In today's competitive job market, having certifications can be invaluable for audio visual technicians looking to stand out from the crowd.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Audio Visual Technicians and explain how they can help an audio visual technician advance their career.

What are Audio Visual Technician Certifications?

Audio visual technician certification is a professional qualification designed to help technicians gain the skills and knowledge required to work in the audio visual industry. Certification can be obtained through formal training and/or experience, and provides technicians with an important credential that demonstrates their expertise. This type of certification can help technicians secure higher-paying jobs, enter specialized areas of the industry, and increase their professional standing in the field.

The certification process typically involves taking courses or workshops on topics such as audio engineering, video production, digital media systems design, lighting design, acoustics, and more. These courses will give technicians a deep understanding of the fundamentals of audio visual technology, allowing them to develop the skills needed to become a successful technician. Additionally, many certifying bodies also require technicians to pass exams that demonstrate their proficiency in various areas related to audio visual technology.

Certification can also help technicians stay up-to-date on advances in technology by providing access to continuing education programs that keep them informed about new products and techniques. Finally, having a certification can give employers confidence in a technician’s abilities when they are looking for qualified applicants for open positions.

Pro Tip: If you are considering becoming an audio visual technician, make sure to get certified. Certification can help you stand out from the competition and demonstrate your expertise in the field. Additionally, many employers require certification for audio visual technicians.

Related: What does an Audio Visual Technician do?

Top 11 Audio Visual Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Audio Visual Technicians today.

1. Certified Audio Visual Technician (CAVT)

Certified Audio Visual Technician (CAVT) is a certification program designed to give technicians the skills and knowledge needed to work in the audio visual industry. This certification is offered by InfoComm International, an organization dedicated to advancing professional audiovisual communications.

The CAVT certification program consists of two parts: a written exam and a hands-on practical test. The written exam covers topics such as audio systems, video systems, control systems, networking, signal flow, and system design. The practical test requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to install and troubleshoot audiovisual equipment.

It typically takes about 12 weeks of study and preparation to pass the CAVT certification exam. Applicants must have at least one year of professional experience in the audio visual field before they can take the exam.

The cost for taking the CAVT certification exam is $399 USD for members of InfoComm International and $499 USD for non-members.

2. Certified Technology Specialist (CTS)

Certified Technology Specialist (CTS) is a certification program offered by the Audiovisual and Integrated Experience Association (AVIXA). It is designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate expertise in the design, integration, programming, and operation of audiovisual systems. The CTS certification is considered a professional standard for the audiovisual industry.

To become certified as a CTS, an individual must pass two exams: one on AV fundamentals and one on AV system design. The exams are administered by Pearson VUE testing centers. The cost of each exam is $400 USD.

The amount of time it takes to get certified depends on the individual's experience level and study habits. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to a year or more to complete both exams and earn the CTS credential.

In order to maintain the CTS certification, individuals must recertify every three years by completing 30 continuing education units (CEUs). CEUs can be earned through activities such as attending classes or conferences related to AV technology or participating in webinars or online courses.

3. Certified Audio Video Professional (CAVP)

Certified Audio Video Professional (CAVP) is a certification program offered by InfoComm International, the world’s largest professional audiovisual organization. The CAVP certification is designed to recognize professionals who have demonstrated proficiency in the design, installation, and operation of audiovisual systems. It is intended to help employers identify qualified personnel for their AV projects and to help AV professionals demonstrate their knowledge and skills.

The CAVP certification requires completion of a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as audio fundamentals, video fundamentals, system design principles, signal flow basics, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To become certified as a CAVP, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements including at least three years of experience in the AV industry or an equivalent combination of education and experience. After meeting these requirements, applicants can register for the exam online or through mail. The fee for the exam is $395 USD for members of InfoComm International or $495 USD for non-members.

Once an applicant has successfully passed the exam they will receive their official CAVP certificate from InfoComm International recognizing them as a Certified Audio Video Professional.

4. Professional Audio Video Technician (PAVT)

Professional Audio Video Technician (PAVT) is a certification program designed for professionals working in the audio/video industry. The program is offered through InfoComm International, an organization dedicated to advancing the use of audio-visual technology worldwide. The PAVT certification provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to install, maintain, and troubleshoot various audio/video systems.

The PAVT certification requires a minimum of two years of experience in the audio/video industry and successful completion of an exam. The exam covers topics such as signal flow, cabling, video formats, system design, installation techniques, and troubleshooting. It is recommended that candidates have basic knowledge of electronics and electrical principles prior to taking the exam.

The cost of the PAVT certification varies depending on location and other factors. Generally speaking, it will cost around $500-$600 for the exam and materials. In addition to this fee, there may be additional fees for travel or accommodations if you are taking the exam at a testing center outside your area.

The time it takes to get certified depends on how quickly you can complete all the requirements for passing the exam. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from 4-6 months to complete all requirements and pass the exam.

Overall, obtaining a Professional Audio Video Technician (PAVT) certification can be beneficial for those looking to advance their career in the audio/video industry or gain more knowledge about audio/video systems.

5. Certified Videoconferencing Engineer (CVE)

A Certified Videoconferencing Engineer (CVE) is a professional who has been certified by an accredited organization to demonstrate proficiency in the installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting of videoconferencing systems. A CVE must possess a thorough knowledge of videoconferencing protocols, standards, and components. They must also understand how to integrate various systems and networks with videoconferencing solutions.

The certification process typically takes several months and requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as system design, installation, configuration, maintenance, troubleshooting, security, interoperability, and more. In addition to the exam itself, applicants may need to complete additional training courses or workshops prior to taking the test.

In order to become a Certified Videoconferencing Engineer (CVE), you must first meet the prerequisites set by your chosen certification provider. These requirements vary by provider but may include having at least two years of experience working with video conferencing systems or having completed specific courses related to video conferencing technology.

The cost for becoming a Certified Videoconferencing Engineer (CVE) varies depending on the certification program you choose. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars depending on the level of certification you are seeking and any additional training or materials required for completion.

6. Digital Signage Expert (DSE)

Digital Signage Expert (DSE) is a certification program that provides individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to become an expert in digital signage. It is designed for professionals who want to develop and implement successful digital signage solutions. The program covers topics such as content creation, hardware selection, system design, installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting.

The Digital Signage Expert (DSE) certification program consists of two parts: the Online Learning Module and the Exam. The Online Learning Module takes approximately 10 hours to complete and is available on demand. It includes video lectures, quizzes, interactive exercises, and other resources. After completing the Online Learning Module, candidates must pass a 90-minute exam in order to receive their DSE certification.

The cost of the Digital Signage Expert (DSE) certification program varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. This cost includes access to the online learning module as well as the exam fee.

To get started with Digital Signage Expert (DSE), you will need to register for either an online or in-person course offered by a certified provider. Once registered, you can begin taking advantage of all of the learning materials provided by your chosen provider to prepare for your exam.

7. Digital Media Designer (DMD)

Digital Media Designer (DMD) is a professional certification program that provides individuals with the skills and knowledge they need to create, manage, and optimize digital media content. The program is designed to help professionals develop their expertise in areas such as web design, graphic design, video production, animation, audio engineering, and more.

The DMD certification program typically takes about six months to complete. It includes online courses and hands-on projects that cover topics such as web design principles, user experience design, digital marketing strategies, project management techniques, and more.

To get the DMD certification you must first take an exam that covers all of the topics covered in the coursework. This exam can be taken online or at a physical testing center. After passing the exam you will receive your DMD certification from the Digital Media Designers Association (DMDA).

The cost of getting a DMD certification varies depending on where you take your exam and what type of study materials you use. Generally speaking, it costs between $200 - $400 USD for the exam fee alone. Additional costs may include study materials such as textbooks or online courses which can range from $50 - $500 USD depending on what type of materials you purchase.

8. Certified Home Theater Installer (CHTI)

Certified Home Theater Installer (CHTI) is a certification program offered by the Custom Electronic Design & Installation Association (CEDIA). The program is designed to provide installers with the knowledge and skills needed to properly install home theater systems. It covers topics such as system design, wiring, installation, calibration and troubleshooting.

The CHTI program consists of two parts: an online course and a hands-on exam. The online course covers topics such as basic electronics, audio/video fundamentals, system design, wiring and installation techniques. It takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete the course. Upon successful completion of the course, students are eligible to take the hands-on exam which tests their ability to properly install home theater systems.

The cost for the CHTI program varies depending on where you live and if you choose to take the online or in-person classes. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 USD for both parts of the program.

Once you have successfully completed both parts of the program, you will be awarded a Certified Home Theater Installer (CHTI) certificate from CEDIA. This certificate will demonstrate your knowledge and skill in installing home theater systems and can help you stand out from other installers in your field.

9. Digital Display Systems Technician (DDST)

Digital Display Systems Technician (DDST) is a certification program that provides technicians with the skills and knowledge needed to install, maintain, repair, and troubleshoot digital display systems. These systems are used in a variety of industries, from retail stores to corporate offices. The DDST certification is offered by the Digital Display Certification Council (DDCC).

The DDST certification program consists of two levels: Level 1 and Level 2. Level 1 focuses on basic installation and maintenance of digital displays, while Level 2 covers more advanced topics such as troubleshooting and repair. To earn the DDST certification, technicians must complete both levels within three years.

To get started with the DDST certification program, technicians must first register with the DDCC. Registration fees vary depending on the level of certification being sought; however, they typically range from $100-$200 USD. After registration is complete, technicians can begin studying for their exams using study materials provided by the DDCC or other vendors.

Once all exams have been completed successfully, technicians will be awarded their DDST certificate. The cost of taking all exams depends on the number taken; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD for both levels combined.

Overall, becoming a certified Digital Display Systems Technician requires dedication and commitment but can open up many opportunities in this growing field.

10. Certified Networked AV System Designer (CNAD)

Certified Networked AV System Designer (CNAD) is a certification program offered by InfoComm International that provides professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to design, install, and maintain audiovisual systems in networked environments. The CNAD program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam.

The online course covers topics such as networking fundamentals, audio/video system design, networked AV systems, audio/video signal management, system integration, troubleshooting, and more. It takes approximately 15-20 hours to complete the online course.

To get certified as a CNAD professional, you must pass the exam administered by InfoComm International. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and is taken at a testing center. It typically takes about 90 minutes to complete the exam.

The cost for taking the CNAD certification exam is $250 USD for members of InfoComm International or $450 USD for non-members.

11. Certified Digital Signage Technologist (CDST).

Certified Digital Signage Technologist (CDST) is a certification program that provides digital signage professionals with the knowledge and skills to design, implement, and manage digital signage systems. The program consists of three courses: Digital Signage Foundations, Digital Signage Implementation, and Digital Signage Management.

It takes approximately six months to complete the CDST program. The courses are offered online and can be taken at your own pace. Each course requires the completion of an exam in order to receive certification.

The cost of the CDST program varies depending on which courses you take. The Digital Signage Foundations course costs $395 USD, while the Digital Signage Implementation and Management courses cost $595 USD each. All together, it costs $1,585 USD for all three courses.

Once you have passed all three exams and earned your CDST certification, you will be eligible for discounts on digital signage products from participating manufacturers as well as access to exclusive industry events and networking opportunities.

Do You Really Need a Audio Visual Technician Certificate?

The short answer to this question is: it depends. A certificate in audio visual technology can be beneficial for a number of reasons, and it may give you an edge when applying for certain types of jobs. However, whether or not such a certificate is necessary depends on the specific job requirements.

For some positions, having a certificate in audio visual technology may be essential. This could include jobs such as installing and maintaining AV equipment or working as an audio engineer in a studio setting. In these cases, employers are likely to require that applicants have at least some formal training in the field before they will even consider them for the job.

On the other hand, many positions related to audio visual technology do not necessarily require any kind of certification or formal training. For example, someone who works as an AV technician in a live event setting may be able to gain enough experience on the job to become qualified for more advanced positions without ever obtaining any kind of official certification.

Ultimately, it’s up to each individual to decide if obtaining an audio visual technician certificate would be beneficial for their career goals. There are certainly advantages to having such a credential, but it’s also important to consider whether or not it’s actually necessary for the type of job you’re aiming for.

Related: Audio Visual Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Audio Visual Technician Certifications

1. What certifications are available for audio visual technicians?

Answer: There are a number of certifications available for audio visual technicians, including Certified Technology Specialist (CTS), Audio Video Technician (AVT), Audiovisual Design Associate (AVDA), and Certified Audio Visual Engineer (CAVE).

2. How long does it take to become certified?

Answer: The length of time it takes to become certified depends on the specific certification being pursued. Generally, most certifications require at least two years of experience in the field and successful completion of an examination.

3. Are there any prerequisites for certification?

Answer: Most certifications require a high school diploma or equivalent and at least two years of relevant experience in the field prior to applying for certification. Additional requirements may vary depending on the specific certification being pursued.

4. What is the cost of certification?

Answer: The cost of certification varies depending on the specific certification being pursued, but generally ranges from $100-$500 USD per exam. Additional fees may be required for membership in professional organizations related to audiovisual technology.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements associated with certifications?

Answer: Yes, many certifications require ongoing training and/or continuing education courses in order to maintain active status. Additionally, some organizations may require recertification every few years in order to remain active.