Top 11 Document Control Specialist Certifications

Certifications are important for document control specialists because they demonstrate a level of proficiency in the field. Document control specialists must be highly organized and knowledgeable about the latest software, standards, and processes to ensure that documents are accurately managed and stored. Having certifications from respected organizations such as the Association of Document Control Professionals (ADCP) or International Quality Management Systems (IQMS) shows employers that you have the required skills and knowledge to perform at a high level. Additionally, certifications provide recognition and credibility to document control specialists in the job market. They can help them stand out from other candidates and make them more attractive to potential employers.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Document Control Specialists and explain how they can help to enhance their career prospects.

What are Document Control Specialist Certifications?

Document Control Specialist Certification is a program that provides an in-depth understanding of the principles and practices of document control. It is designed to give professionals the skills they need to manage and store documents efficiently, securely, and according to industry standards. The certification covers topics such as document lifecycle management, document security policies, archiving processes, and digital asset management.

Document Control Specialist Certification helps professionals develop their skills in this field by providing them with comprehensive instruction on how to effectively manage documents. Professionals learn how to create a document control system from scratch, develop efficient procedures for managing documents throughout their lifecycle, implement secure storage solutions for sensitive information, and more. Document control specialists can also gain a better understanding of the different types of documents that need to be stored and managed within an organization. This knowledge can help them ensure that all documents are organized properly and remain accessible when needed.

Certified document control specialists also have access to resources such as industry best practices and templates for creating standardized procedures for managing documents. These resources can help them stay up-to-date on the latest regulations and requirements regarding document control, allowing them to provide reliable services to their clients or employers. Ultimately, Document Control Specialist Certification helps professionals become qualified in this field so they can provide quality services that meet industry standards.

Pro Tip: When selecting a document control specialist certification, look for one that is accredited by a recognized professional body. This will ensure that the certification is up to date and relevant to the industry, as well as providing a reliable indication of your knowledge and skills in this field.

Related: What does a Document Control Specialist do?

Top 11 Document Control Specialist Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Document Control Specialists today.

1. Certified Document Control Professional (CDCP)

Certified Document Control Professional (CDCP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of document control. The CDCP program is administered by the International Association for Document Control Professionals (IADCP).

The CDCP certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as document control processes, management and compliance, quality assurance, and regulatory requirements. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and can be taken online or at a testing center. It typically takes about two hours to complete.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least two years of experience in document control or related fields. Applicants must also submit a completed application form and pay the applicable fees.

The cost of the CDCP certification depends on whether you are taking the exam online or at a testing center. Online exams cost $200 USD plus applicable taxes; exams taken at a testing center cost $250 USD plus applicable taxes.

2. Certified Records Manager (CRM)

Certified Records Manager (CRM) is a professional certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of records managers. It is awarded by the Institute of Certified Records Managers (ICRM), an independent, non-profit organization dedicated to promoting standards of excellence in the management of records and information.

A CRM certification requires passing a written examination that tests knowledge in seven core areas: records analysis, classification, retention and disposal; legal requirements; technology; security; privacy; and business continuity. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and must be completed in three hours.

To become certified as a CRM, applicants must meet certain eligibility criteria, including having at least two years of experience in records management or related fields. Applicants must also submit proof of their education or training in records management or related fields, as well as references from employers or supervisors who can attest to their qualifications.

The cost for the CRM certification exam is $400 USD plus applicable taxes. Once an applicant passes the exam, they will receive a certificate from ICRM confirming their status as a Certified Records Manager.

3. Certified Document Imaging Architect (CDIA+)

Certified Document Imaging Architect (CDIA+) is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have the knowledge and skills to design, implement, and manage document imaging systems. It is developed and administered by the Association for Information and Image Management (AIIM).

To get the CDIA+ certification, an individual must pass a two-hour exam that consists of 150 multiple-choice questions. The exam covers topics such as document imaging technology, system architecture, hardware/software selection, project management, workflow analysis, security/privacy issues, and standards compliance. The exam fee is $395 USD.

The CDIA+ certification does not have any prerequisites or renewal requirements. However, it is recommended that individuals have at least two years of experience in document imaging or related fields before attempting the exam.

In order to take the exam, individuals must first register with AIIM. After registering with AIIM, they can then schedule their exam at any of the Pearson VUE testing centers around the world. Once they pass the exam, they will receive their official CDIA+ certificate from AIIM.

4. Certified Quality Management System Lead Auditor (CQMSLA)

A Certified Quality Management System Lead Auditor (CQMSLA) is a professional certification that verifies an individual’s knowledge and experience in auditing quality management systems (QMS). This certification is designed to demonstrate that the individual has the necessary skills to effectively audit QMSs according to international standards such as ISO 9001.

To become a CQMSLA, individuals must first complete an approved training course. The training course typically takes two days and covers topics such as quality principles, auditing techniques, and process improvement. Upon successful completion of the course, individuals must then pass an examination administered by a recognized accreditation body.

The cost of becoming a CQMSLA varies depending on the provider. Generally, the cost includes both the training course and examination fees. The total cost can range from $1,500 to $3,000 USD depending on the provider and location.

In order to maintain their certification, CQMSLAs must participate in continuing education activities every three years. This ensures that they remain up-to-date on the latest industry standards and best practices for auditing QMSs.

5. Certified Quality Engineer (CQE)

A Certified Quality Engineer (CQE) is a professional certification issued by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). The CQE is an experienced engineer who has demonstrated a comprehensive understanding of quality engineering principles and practices. This certification is designed to demonstrate that the individual has the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform quality engineering functions in a variety of industries.

It typically takes about one year to complete the required coursework and exams to become certified. To get started, you will need to take the ASQ’s Certified Quality Engineer Exam Preparation Course, which covers topics such as quality assurance, statistics, design of experiments, process control, and more. After completing this course, you can then take the actual CQE exam.

The cost for taking the CQE exam varies depending on your location; however, it typically costs around $400 USD. Additionally, there are other fees associated with becoming certified such as membership fees and renewal fees.

6. Certified Document Solutions Professional (CDSP)

Certified Document Solutions Professional (CDSP) is a professional certification program offered by the International Association of Document Examiners (IADE). The CDSP program is designed to provide individuals with the skills and knowledge necessary to become a successful document examiner. It provides an understanding of the fundamentals of document examination, as well as advanced topics such as authentication, forgery detection, and handwriting analysis.

The CDSP program consists of four modules: Introduction to Document Examination; Authentication and Forgery Detection; Handwriting Analysis; and Advanced Topics in Document Examination. Each module must be completed within two years of enrolling in the program. Upon completion of all four modules, participants are eligible to take the Certified Document Solutions Professional (CDSP) exam.

To get certified, you must first complete an application form which can be found on the IADE website. Once your application has been approved, you will receive a welcome letter containing instructions on how to register for the CDSP exam. You must also pay an exam fee before registering for the exam. The cost of the exam varies depending on your country/region but typically ranges from $250-$500 USD.

Once registered for the exam, you will have 90 days to complete it from your registration date. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering all four modules and is administered online via a secure platform provided by IADE. After completing the exam, you will receive your results within 7-10 business days via email or post mail depending on your preference. If you pass, you will be awarded the Certified Document Solutions Professional (CDSP) certification which is valid for three years from date of issue.

7. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is a professional certification awarded by the Information Systems Audit and Control Association (ISACA). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the field of information systems auditing, control, and security.

To become CISA-certified, you must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass the CISA exam. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that cover five domains: Information Systems Auditing Process; IT Governance; Risk Management; IT Service Delivery and Support; and Protection of Information Assets. The exam takes four hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the CISA certification, you must have at least five years of cumulative work experience in one or more of the five domains covered by the exam. If you do not have this experience, you may still qualify if you have a college degree or equivalent qualification plus three years' experience in one or more of these domains.

The cost of taking the CISA exam varies depending on where you take it. It typically ranges from $575 to $825 USD for members of ISACA, and from $760 to $1,010 USD for non-members. Additionally, there are several other fees associated with becoming certified such as an application fee ($50 USD), annual maintenance fees ($45 USD), and recertification fees ($50 USD).

8. American Society for Quality – Quality Auditing Certification

The American Society for Quality (ASQ) is a global organization dedicated to advancing quality and excellence in all aspects of business, industry, and society. The ASQ Quality Auditing Certification is designed to help professionals demonstrate their knowledge and proficiency in the field of quality auditing. This certification requires individuals to have a working knowledge of the principles, techniques, and tools used in quality auditing.

The certification process consists of two parts: an exam and a professional experience requirement. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least three years of relevant work experience or training in quality auditing or related fields. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions that cover topics such as auditing principles, techniques, and tools; audit planning; audit execution; audit reporting; and corrective action.

To complete the professional experience requirement, applicants must submit documentation that demonstrates their knowledge and proficiency in quality auditing. This documentation can include job descriptions, performance reviews, project reports, or other evidence that shows the applicant’s expertise in the field.

The ASQ Quality Auditing Certification is valid for three years from the date it was awarded. After three years, individuals must renew their certification by taking a recertification exam or submitting updated documentation demonstrating their continued expertise in quality auditing.

The cost of the ASQ Quality Auditing Certification varies depending on which membership category you choose. For example, individual memberships start at $99 per year while corporate memberships start at $1,499 per year. The cost of the exam also varies depending on which membership category you choose; individual exams range from $150-$250 while corporate exams range from $500-$700.

9. International Organization for Standardization – ISO 9001:2015

The International Organization for Standardization (ISO) is a global non-profit organization that develops and publishes standards to ensure quality and safety. ISO 9001:2015 is the latest version of the ISO 9001 Quality Management System (QMS) standard, which provides guidance on how to design, implement, and improve an effective QMS. It is intended to help organizations meet customer requirements, as well as legal and regulatory requirements related to product or service quality.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to get certified for ISO 9001:2015. The process involves completing an internal audit of your organization’s processes and procedures in order to identify any areas of non-compliance with the standard. Once you have identified any areas of non-compliance, you must develop a corrective action plan in order to address them. After this has been completed, you can then submit your application for certification with an accredited third-party certification body who will review your documentation and conduct a final audit before granting certification.

The cost of getting certified for ISO 9001:2015 depends on the size and complexity of your organization as well as the type of certification body you use. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars depending on these factors.

In addition to the cost of certification itself, there may also be costs associated with implementing any changes required by the standard or preparing for the audit itself such as training staff or purchasing additional equipment or resources.

10. Project Management Institute – PMP Certification

The Project Management Institute (PMI) is a professional organization that offers the Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. The PMP certification is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a project manager’s knowledge, experience, and commitment to the profession. It is designed to help project managers improve their skills and increase their value to organizations.

It typically takes about 4-6 months to earn the PMP certification, depending on your background and experience. To get certified, you must first meet the eligibility requirements set by PMI, which include having a certain amount of project management experience and education. Once you have met these requirements, you must complete an application process and pass a four-hour exam.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on your membership status with PMI. Non-members pay $555 for the application fee and $405 for the exam fee; members pay $405 for the application fee and $275 for the exam fee. Additionally, there are fees associated with study materials such as books or online courses that can range from $50-$500 depending on what type of resources you use.

Overall, becoming PMP certified can be expensive but it can also be very beneficial in terms of career advancement and salary potential.

11. Six Sigma Green Belt and Black Belt Certifications

Six Sigma Green Belt and Black Belt Certifications are professional certifications designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the Six Sigma methodology. The Green Belt certification is intended for professionals who lead Six Sigma projects, while the Black Belt certification is intended for experienced professionals leading large-scale projects.

Green Belts typically require three to six months of training, depending on the organization's requirements, and must pass an exam in order to receive their certification. Black Belts typically require nine to twelve months of training, and must also pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of obtaining either certification varies by provider, but generally ranges from $500-$2,000 USD. To obtain either certification, individuals must complete a series of courses and/or workshops that cover the Six Sigma methodology as well as related topics such as project management and data analysis. After completing the required courses, individuals must then pass an exam administered by a certified provider in order to receive their certification.

Do You Really Need a Document Control Specialist Certificate?

The short answer is no, you do not need a document control specialist certificate to work in the field of document control. However, having one may improve your chances of getting hired and increase your potential salary.

Document control specialists are responsible for creating, maintaining, and organizing digital documents. They must be familiar with databases and other information systems, as well as possess strong organizational skills. While a degree in computer science or business can provide some of the necessary background knowledge for the job, a certificate program specifically tailored to the field can give you an edge over other applicants.

Certificate programs offer focused instruction on topics such as document management software, data security protocols, and project management techniques that are essential to success in this field. A certificate also demonstrates that you have professional-level skills and are knowledgeable about industry best practices. In addition, employers may view a certificate as evidence of your commitment to learning and staying up-to-date on the latest trends in document control technology.

In summary, while it is not necessary to have a Document Control Specialist Certificate to pursue a career in this field, it can certainly help bolster your resume and demonstrate your dedication to the profession.

Related: Document Control Specialist Resume Examples

FAQs About Document Control Specialist Certifications

Q1: What is a Document Control Specialist Certification?

A1: A Document Control Specialist Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual's expertise in document control and management. It covers topics related to document management, quality assurance, and regulatory compliance.

Q2: What are the benefits of becoming certified?

A2: Becoming certified as a Document Control Specialist can help you gain credibility in the field, increase your earning potential, expand job opportunities, and demonstrate a commitment to professional development.

Q3: How do I become certified?

A3: To become certified as a Document Control Specialist, you must complete an approved training program and pass an exam administered by a recognized certifying body.

Q4: Is there any continuing education required for maintaining certification?

A4: Yes, most certifying bodies require continuing education in order to maintain certification. This may include attending seminars or workshops related to document control and management.

Q5: How long does it take to get certified?

A5: The length of time it takes to get certified depends on the specific requirements of the certifying body; however, most programs can be completed within six months to one year.