Top 11 Civil Designer Certifications

Certifications are important for civil designers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competency and experience. Employers often view certifications as proof that an individual has the knowledge and skills required to perform specific tasks. They are also seen as a way to validate the designer's qualifications and to help employers determine which candidates have the best abilities for the job. Certifications can give civil designers an edge over other applicants, increasing their chances of getting hired. Additionally, certifications can help civil designers stay up-to-date on industry trends and advancements, giving them an advantage when it comes to staying competitive in their field.

The purpose of this article is to review the available certifications for civil designers and provide insight into how they can benefit a civil designer's career.

What are Civil Designer Certifications?

Civil Designer Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of civil designers in the engineering industry. This certification ensures that civil designers have the necessary qualifications and experience to work effectively in their field. It also provides assurance to employers that they are hiring qualified professionals who can accurately and efficiently design, construct, and maintain roads, bridges, dams, and other civil infrastructure.

The certification is awarded by an independent body after the applicant has demonstrated mastery of specific principles and concepts related to civil engineering design. The certification process includes an application process, written exams, and a practical exam. Once certified, professionals have access to important resources such as continuing education courses and networking opportunities with other professionals in their field.

By obtaining Civil Designer Certification, individuals prove to employers that they have the knowledge and skills required for successful project completion. It also helps employers identify qualified professionals from a large pool of applicants when hiring for civil engineering positions. Additionally, it can provide job security as certified engineers are more likely to be hired due to their recognized expertise. Finally, it can result in higher wages since certified engineers often command higher salaries than non-certified engineers.

Pro Tip: When pursuing a civil designer certification, make sure to take the time to understand the requirements for each level of certification. Knowing what is expected of you will help you prepare and ensure that you are ready to successfully pass the exam.

Related: What does a Civil Designer do?

Top 11 Civil Designer Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional in Civil Engineering (CPCE)

Certified Professional in Civil Engineering (CPCE) is a professional certification program offered by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). The CPCE is designed to recognize civil engineers who have demonstrated a commitment to excellence in their profession and have achieved a high level of professional competence.

To become certified, an individual must meet certain educational requirements, pass an examination, and demonstrate experience in the field. The CPCE exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral presentation. The written portion covers topics such as engineering principles, ethics, and project management; while the oral presentation focuses on technical knowledge and problem-solving skills.

It typically takes about three years to complete all of the requirements for the CPCE certification. To begin the process, individuals must first earn a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from an accredited university or college. After completing their degree, they must then obtain at least four years of work experience in civil engineering before taking the CPCE exam.

The cost for taking the CPCE exam varies depending on location but typically ranges from $400-$700 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with obtaining continuing education credits or applying for recertification every five years.

2. Certified Civil Engineer (CCE)

Certified Civil Engineer (CCE) is a professional engineering certification awarded by the American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE). It is a voluntary certification program that recognizes the knowledge, experience and performance of civil engineers.

The CCE certification process involves completing an application, passing an exam, and meeting the ASCE’s standards for professional practice. The application requires detailed information about your educational background, work experience, and other qualifications. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as structural analysis and design, construction management, geotechnical engineering, and water resources engineering.

It typically takes between two to three years to complete the CCE certification process. During this time you will need to gain experience in civil engineering through working on projects or taking classes related to the field. You will also need to pass the CCE exam which is administered twice a year.

The cost of obtaining the CCE certification varies depending on your individual situation but generally ranges from $500-$1,500 USD. This includes fees for submitting your application and taking the exam as well as any additional training or courses you may need to take in order to meet the requirements of the program.

3. American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) Certification

The American Society of Civil Engineers (ASCE) is a professional organization dedicated to advancing the civil engineering profession and providing its members with the resources they need to succeed. The ASCE offers a variety of certifications that recognize individuals who have achieved excellence in their field.

ASCE certifications are designed to demonstrate an individual's knowledge, experience, and commitment to the civil engineering profession. To become certified, individuals must meet certain qualifications and pass a comprehensive exam. Certification typically takes between six months and two years to complete, depending on the certification level.

To get an ASCE certification, individuals must first apply for membership in the society. Once accepted as a member, they can then apply for one or more of the available certifications. Each certification requires different qualifications and tests; some may require additional education or experience beyond what was required for membership.

The cost of obtaining an ASCE certification varies depending on which one you choose and how long it takes you to complete it. Generally speaking, most certifications cost several hundred dollars in application fees plus any necessary exam fees.

4. Certified Structural Engineer (CSE)

A Certified Structural Engineer (CSE) is a professional engineer who has met the requirements for certification in structural engineering. This certification is granted by the National Council of Examiners for Engineering and Surveying (NCEES). The CSE credential is designed to recognize engineers who have demonstrated a high level of competence in the practice of structural engineering.

In order to become certified, an individual must meet certain education and experience requirements, as well as pass two exams administered by NCEES. The first exam is the Fundamentals of Engineering Exam, which tests knowledge of basic engineering principles. The second exam is the Principles and Practice of Structural Engineering Exam, which tests knowledge specific to structural engineering.

It typically takes four years or more to complete the process of becoming a Certified Structural Engineer. During this time, you must obtain an accredited degree in civil or structural engineering, gain relevant work experience in structural engineering, and pass both exams administered by NCEES.

The cost for taking the exams varies depending on your location and whether you are a member of NCEES or not. Generally speaking, it will cost around $400-$500 per exam plus any applicable taxes or fees.

Overall, becoming a Certified Structural Engineer requires dedication and hard work but can be very rewarding for those interested in pursuing a career in this field.

5. Professional Engineer License (PE)

A Professional Engineer License (PE) is a license that allows an engineer to practice engineering in the United States. It is issued by each state's board of professional engineers, and it requires the engineer to meet certain educational and experience requirements.

To get a PE license, an engineer must first complete an accredited bachelor’s degree in engineering and then pass the Fundamentals of Engineering (FE) exam. After passing the FE exam, the engineer must gain four years of work experience under the direct supervision of a licensed professional engineer. Once this experience requirement is met, the engineer can take the Principles and Practice of Engineering (PE) exam. Upon passing this exam, the engineer will receive their PE license from their state board.

The process for obtaining a PE license can take anywhere from 6-10 years depending on how quickly the individual completes their education and gains experience.

The cost for getting a PE license varies from state to state but typically includes fees for taking both exams as well as application fees to obtain the license itself. The cost can range anywhere from $500-$1,000 depending on which state you are applying in.

6. LEED Green Associate

LEED Green Associate is a professional certification program offered by the U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and understanding of the LEED green building rating system and its application to green buildings. The LEED Green Associate credential is held by professionals who have demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of green building principles, practices, and strategies.

The LEED Green Associate credential requires a minimum of 8 hours of study and preparation time prior to taking the exam. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as sustainable sites, water efficiency, energy and atmosphere, materials and resources, indoor environmental quality, location and transportation, innovation in design, regional priority credits, project management and operations & maintenance.

To become a LEED Green Associate you must:

1) Complete the required 8 hours of study/preparation for the exam;

2) Pass the LEED Green Associate Exam with a score of 170 or higher;

3) Pay the USGBC membership fee ($100 for individuals);

4) Submit your application to USGBC for review;

5) Receive your official LEED Green Associate certificate from USGBC.

The cost for becoming a LEED Green Associate varies depending on how you choose to prepare for the exam. The exam itself costs $200 USD plus applicable taxes. Additionally, if you choose to take an online course or attend an in-person training session there may be additional fees associated with those services.

7. Certified Water Resources Engineer (CWRE)

Certified Water Resources Engineer (CWRE) is a professional certification program administered by the American Academy of Water Resources Engineers (AAWRE). This certification is intended to recognize and promote excellence in the practice of water resources engineering. The CWRE recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of professional expertise and knowledge in the field of water resources engineering.

To obtain the CWRE, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an examination that covers topics such as hydrology, hydraulics, water quality, water supply, wastewater treatment, stormwater management, flood control, coastal engineering, and other related areas. Applicants must also demonstrate their competency in professional practice through a portfolio review.

It typically takes two to three years to complete all the requirements for the CWRE. During this time applicants must complete a minimum of 8 hours of continuing education credits each year as well as maintain active membership in AAWRE or another approved professional organization.

The cost to apply for the CWRE is $200 for members of AAWRE and $300 for non-members. Additionally, there are fees associated with taking the exam ($400 for members and $600 for non-members) and submitting a portfolio ($100).

8. Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM)

Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) is a professional certification program administered by the Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in floodplain management. The CFM designation is the most widely recognized credential for floodplain managers in the United States.

The CFM program requires applicants to demonstrate knowledge and experience in all aspects of floodplain management, including hydrology, hydraulics, soils, geology, hydrologic modeling, mapping, regulations, engineering design principles and best management practices. Applicants must also pass an exam that covers these topics.

It typically takes between 6 months and 1 year to complete the requirements for the CFM designation. To get started, applicants must first become a member of ASFPM and then submit an application form along with supporting documentation such as transcripts or certificates from related courses. Once accepted into the program, applicants must complete a series of workshops and seminars before taking the certification exam.

The cost of obtaining the CFM designation varies depending on membership fees and other associated costs such as travel expenses for attending workshops or seminars. In total, it can cost anywhere from $1,000 to $2,500 to obtain the CFM designation.

9. Certified Transportation Professional (CTP)

Certified Transportation Professional (CTP) is a certification program offered by the American Public Transportation Association (APTA). It is designed to recognize and honor professionals who have demonstrated their knowledge and expertise in the field of public transportation. The CTP certification is recognized as a mark of excellence in the industry, and it can help individuals stand out from the competition when seeking employment or advancement opportunities.

The CTP certification process involves passing an exam that covers topics such as public transportation planning, management, operations, safety, finance, and customer service. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. Candidates must also meet certain educational requirements before they can take the exam.

In order to get the CTP certification, candidates must first register for the exam with APTA. Registration fees for the exam are $250 for members of APTA or $300 for non-members. Once registered, candidates must then schedule their exam at one of several testing centers throughout the United States. After successfully completing the exam, candidates will receive their CTP certificate within two weeks.

The CTP certification is valid for three years after which time recertification is required in order to maintain it. Recertification requires passing a recertification examination every three years or demonstrating continued professional development activities related to public transportation during that period.

10. Certified Construction Manager (CCM)

Certified Construction Manager (CCM) is a professional certification offered by the Construction Management Association of America (CMAA). It is the highest standard of professional achievement in the construction management field. The CCM recognizes individuals who demonstrate excellence in construction management and have a commitment to professional development and ethical practice.

The process of obtaining the CCM credential typically takes between 6-12 months, depending on how quickly you complete the requirements. To become certified, you must meet certain eligibility criteria, including having at least four years of full-time construction management experience within the past 10 years. You must also pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as project planning and scheduling, cost estimating and control, contract administration, construction safety, and risk management.

The cost to obtain the CCM credential varies depending on your membership status with CMAA. If you are not currently a member of CMAA, you can expect to pay around $1,000 for application fees and exam fees combined. If you are already a member of CMAA, then you will only need to pay for exam fees which range from $400-$800 depending on your membership level.

Once certified, you will be able to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in construction management to potential employers or clients. This can help open doors for job opportunities or higher salaries in the field.

11. American Institute of Steel Construction Certification (AISC).

The American Institute of Steel Construction (AISC) Certification is a program that recognizes steel fabricators and erectors who demonstrate a commitment to quality and safety in the construction of steel structures. The certification process involves rigorous testing, inspections, and reviews to ensure that all requirements are met.

In order to become AISC certified, applicants must first submit an application package which includes a detailed description of their fabrication and erection processes. This is then reviewed by AISC’s Certification Committee. If the application is approved, an on-site audit will be conducted by an independent third party auditor. During this audit, the fabricator or erector will be required to demonstrate their ability to meet all applicable AISC standards and specifications.

Once the audit has been successfully completed, the applicant will receive their AISC Certification. The entire process typically takes around four months from start to finish.

The cost of obtaining AISC Certification varies depending on the size of the project and other factors such as travel expenses for the auditor. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $2,500 - $15,000 USD.

Do You Really Need a Civil Designer Certificate?

The short answer to this question is: it depends. The need for a civil designer certificate depends on the type of career you are pursuing and the requirements of the employer.

For example, a civil engineer may not necessarily require a civil designer certificate in order to practice their profession. However, some employers may require it as part of their hiring process or as a means of demonstrating that an individual has certain qualifications. In other cases, a civil designer certificate may be necessary in order to stay up-to-date with current technology and industry practices. It can also help demonstrate that an individual has the experience and knowledge required to design complex structures and systems.

In addition, having a civil designer certificate can open up more job opportunities. For instance, if you are looking for a job in construction management or engineering consulting, having this certification may give you an edge over other candidates who do not possess it. Furthermore, many employers view those with certifications as being more experienced and knowledgeable than those without one.

Finally, having a civil designer certificate can help provide you with greater confidence in your abilities when working on projects or taking on new responsibilities at work. Knowing that you have completed courses related to your field can give you peace of mind knowing that you have obtained the necessary skillset needed to succeed in the workplace.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a civil designer certificate will depend on your career goals and what your potential employer is looking for in potential hires. If obtaining such certification could benefit your professional development or increase your chances at getting hired then it might be worth considering acquiring one.

Related: Civil Designer Resume Examples

FAQs About Civil Designer Certifications

1. What types of Civil Designer Certifications are available?

Answer: There are a variety of certifications for civil designers, including Certified Professional in Civil Design (CPCD), Certified Civil Designer (CCD), and Certified Landscape Designer (CLD).

2. How do I become certified as a civil designer?

Answer: To become certified as a civil designer, you must complete an approved training program and pass the appropriate exams. You may also need to demonstrate experience in the field.

3. What is the difference between CPCD and CCD certifications?

Answer: The CPCD certification is focused on designing structures such as bridges, roads, and buildings, while the CCD certification is more focused on designing land features such as parks, golf courses, and cemeteries.

4. What are the requirements for becoming a Certified Landscape Designer (CLD)?

Answer: To become a CLD certified professional you must have at least two years of experience in landscape design or related fields, complete an approved education program, and pass an exam administered by the International Society of Arboriculture (ISA).

5. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: The time it takes to get certified depends on your experience level and the specific certification program you choose. Most programs require completion of coursework and passing an exam before certification can be granted.