Top 10 Drywall Finisher Certifications

Certifications for a drywall finisher are important in the job market because they demonstrate to potential employers that the finisher has a level of expertise and knowledge. It shows that they have taken the time to learn the necessary skills and techniques, as well as safety protocols, required to accomplish the job correctly and professionally. This can be an invaluable asset when looking for employment since it helps employers quickly identify qualified candidates. Additionally, certifications may also provide access to higher wages or more desirable jobs, as certifications often come with additional training that can give workers a competitive edge.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Drywall Finishers and explains how they can help a drywall finisher advance their career.

What are Drywall Finisher Certifications?

Drywall finisher certification is a recognition of an individual's expertise in the installation and finishing of drywall. This certification is designed to help employers identify qualified professionals and ensure that they are hiring individuals who possess the necessary skills and knowledge to complete drywall projects safely and effectively. Through this certification, drywall finishers can demonstrate their commitment to safety, accuracy, and quality while also proving their ability to produce high-quality results.

Having this certification may lead to increased career opportunities with higher pay rates as well as open doors for advancement within the industry. This certification can also provide assurance that a job will be completed properly and efficiently. It can also help when dealing with customers since it is a sign of professional competence and dependability. Lastly, having this certification shows potential customers that you are dedicated to offering them the best possible service and results.

Pro Tip: When considering a drywall finisher certification, make sure to look into the requirements for each program and select one that is accredited by a recognized trade organization. This will ensure that you are receiving quality training and that your certification is valid.

Related: What does a Drywall Finisher do?

Top 10 Drywall Finisher Certifications

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

1. National Association of Drywall Finishers (NADF) Certification

The National Association of Drywall Finishers (NADF) Certification is a professional certification program for drywall finishers. It is designed to recognize and certify the knowledge, skills, and abilities of drywall finishers in the United States.

To become certified by NADF, an individual must pass a written exam that covers safety, installation techniques, materials, tools and equipment used in drywall finishing. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To get certified by NADF, individuals must first register with the association and pay the required fees. Fees vary depending on whether or not an individual is already a member of NADF; members pay $150 while non-members pay $200. After registering and paying the fees, individuals will receive instructions on how to take the exam at a local testing center. Once they have passed the exam, they will be issued their NADF certification card which is valid for three years from the date it was issued.

The cost of taking the NADF Certification Exam varies depending on where you take it; most testing centers charge between $50-$100 per exam attempt.

2. National Gypsum Company Professional Finisher Certification

National Gypsum Company Professional Finisher Certification is a certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of professional finishers who work with drywall products. The program provides a comprehensive overview of National Gypsum’s drywall products and installation methods, as well as an introduction to the company’s safety policies and procedures. It also covers topics such as proper taping techniques, finishing methods, and how to properly mix and apply joint compound.

The certification process involves completing an online course that consists of four modules: Introduction to Drywall, Taping Techniques, Finishing Methods, and Safety Policies & Procedures. The course takes approximately 4-6 hours to complete. Upon successful completion of the course, a certificate will be issued indicating that the individual has achieved National Gypsum Company Professional Finisher Certification.

The cost for the certification program is $150 USD per person. This fee includes access to the online course materials as well as a certificate upon successful completion of the program.

3. Drywall Finishing and Taping Certification from the International Wall and Ceiling Institute (IWCI)

Drywall Finishing and Taping Certification from the International Wall and Ceiling Institute (IWCI) is a certification program that provides an industry-recognized credential for drywall finishers. The program is designed to ensure that drywall finishers have the knowledge and skills necessary to complete professional-grade drywall finishing projects.

The certification process consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical demonstration. The written exam covers topics such as wall preparation, drywall installation, taping techniques, joint compound application, texture application, and finish coat application. The practical demonstration requires the applicant to demonstrate their ability to properly install and finish a section of drywall onsite at an IWCI facility.

The entire certification process typically takes about three days to complete. To get certified, applicants must first register with IWCI online or by mail. Once registered, applicants will receive information regarding the exam date, location, and cost of the certification process.

The cost of Drywall Finishing and Taping Certification from the International Wall and Ceiling Institute (IWCI) varies depending on location but typically ranges between $400-$500 USD. This fee covers registration for both parts of the certification process as well as any materials needed for the practical demonstration.

4. National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Drywall Finisher Certification

The National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER) Drywall Finisher Certification is a certification program that verifies an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of drywall finishing. This certification is designed to help employers identify qualified drywall finishers who have been trained to perform the job safely and efficiently. The certification covers topics such as drywall installation, taping and finishing, plastering and patching, texture application, wall repair, and safety practices.

The NCCER Drywall Finisher Certification requires applicants to complete a series of courses that cover all aspects of the trade. These courses are offered through NCCER-accredited training centers or online programs. The length of time it takes to complete the certification depends on the number of courses taken and how quickly they are completed.

To get certified as a Drywall Finisher through NCCER, applicants must first register with NCCER's registry system at www.nccerregistry.org. After registering, applicants must pass a written exam that covers all aspects of the drywall finishing trade before being issued a certificate from NCCER.

The cost for obtaining the NCCER Drywall Finisher Certification varies depending on which training center or online program is used to obtain it. Generally speaking, the cost can range anywhere from $500-$1000 USD depending on the course materials needed and any additional fees associated with taking the exam.

5. American Institute of Architects (AIA) Certified Drywall Finisher

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) Certified Drywall Finisher is a certification program designed to recognize and promote the highest standards of drywall finishing. The AIA Certified Drywall Finisher program is administered by the National Association of Wall and Ceiling Industries (NAWCI).

To become an AIA Certified Drywall Finisher, applicants must complete a two-day training course that covers the fundamentals of drywall finishing, including proper techniques for taping, mudding, sanding, patching, and texturing. Applicants must also pass a written exam and demonstrate their ability to perform drywall finishing tasks in a safe and efficient manner. Upon successful completion of the course and exam, applicants will receive an AIA Certified Drywall Finisher certificate.

It typically takes two days to complete the training course and obtain the certification. The cost for the training course varies depending on location but usually ranges between $200-$400.

6. Sheetrock® Brand Professional Finisher Certification Program

The Sheetrock® Brand Professional Finisher Certification Program is a comprehensive training program that provides professional finishers with the knowledge and skills needed to successfully complete drywall finishing projects. The program consists of online courses, hands-on training, and an industry-recognized certification exam.

The program takes approximately 8 hours to complete. It begins with an online course that covers the basics of drywall finishing including tools, materials, techniques, and safety. This is followed by a hands-on workshop where participants practice the skills they learned in the online course. Finally, participants take an industry-recognized certification exam to demonstrate their mastery of drywall finishing techniques.

To get certified through this program, applicants must be 18 years or older and have a valid driver’s license. They must also submit proof of completion of the required online course and hands-on workshop before taking the certification exam.

The cost for this program varies depending on location but typically ranges from $150-$250 USD for both the online course and hands-on workshop. The cost for the certification exam is not included in this fee and must be paid separately when registering for it.

7. USG Corporation Certified Drywall Finisher Program

The USG Corporation Certified Drywall Finisher Program is a professional certification program designed to recognize the skills and expertise of drywall finishers. The program is administered by USG Corporation, a leading manufacturer of wallboard and other building materials.

The program consists of three levels: Certified Drywall Finisher (CDF), Advanced Certified Drywall Finisher (ACDF), and Master Certified Drywall Finisher (MCDF). Each level requires the completion of a comprehensive course of study, including classroom instruction and hands-on training in drywall installation techniques. Candidates must also pass an examination to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in order to receive certification.

The length of time it takes to complete the program depends on the individual’s commitment to learning and studying for the exam. Generally, it takes between six months and one year to complete all three levels.

To get started, candidates must register with USG Corporation online or by mail, pay a registration fee, and then participate in an orientation session. From there, they will be given access to online courses that cover topics such as drywall installation techniques, safety practices, building codes, and more. Once they have completed all required courses, they can then take the certification exams at their local testing center.

The cost for the entire program varies depending on which level you are pursuing. The CDF level costs $250 USD; ACDF costs $500 USD; and MCDF costs $750 USD. Fees may vary depending on location or other factors.

8. CertainTeed Certified Drywall Finisher Program

The CertainTeed Certified Drywall Finisher Program is a certification program that recognizes drywall finishers who demonstrate the highest level of skill and workmanship. It is designed to provide assurance to builders, contractors, and homeowners that the drywall finisher they hire has met certain standards of quality and craftsmanship.

To become a CertainTeed Certified Drywall Finisher, applicants must complete a training course offered by CertainTeed or an approved third-party provider. The training course covers topics such as drywall installation techniques, taping and finishing techniques, safety practices, and product knowledge. Once the training course is completed, applicants must pass a written exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the training course varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $200-$400. The exam fee is $50 and can be paid online or at the testing center.

It typically takes three to four weeks to complete the training course and pass the exam in order to become certified.

9. Armstrong World Industries Certified Drywall Finisher Program

The Armstrong World Industries Certified Drywall Finisher Program is a certification program that provides training and guidance to those who wish to become certified drywall finishers. The program was developed by the Armstrong World Industries Institute of Building Science in order to provide an industry-recognized standard for drywall finishers.

To become certified, participants must complete a series of courses and exams that cover topics such as drywall installation, taping, finishing, and repair. The program consists of three levels: Level I (basic), Level II (intermediate), and Level III (advanced). Each level requires a minimum number of hours of instruction and includes both classroom instruction and hands-on experience.

The duration of the program varies depending on the level chosen. For example, Level I can be completed in as little as one week, while Levels II and III may take up to four weeks or more.

In order to obtain certification, participants must successfully pass all required tests with a score of 70% or higher. They will also need to submit proof of completion for each course they have taken.

The cost of the program varies depending on the level chosen; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD per level.

10. Georgia-Pacific Professional Gypsum Board Installer Certification

Georgia-Pacific Professional Gypsum Board Installer Certification is a certification program designed to recognize installers who demonstrate the highest level of skill and knowledge in the installation of Georgia-Pacific gypsum board products. The certification process includes an online training course, a written exam, and an on-site practical exam.

The online training course covers topics such as proper installation techniques, safety requirements, product selection and more. Upon completion of the online training course, participants must pass a written exam in order to qualify for the on-site practical exam. The on-site practical exam consists of installing Georgia-Pacific gypsum board products according to industry standards with minimal supervision.

The entire process typically takes between three and four weeks to complete depending on the availability of the participant’s schedule. To get certified, interested individuals must first register for the program by visiting Georgia Pacific’s website or calling their customer service line at 1-800-255-1921.

The cost of registration is $299 per person and includes access to the online training course, two attempts at passing the written exam, and one attempt at passing the on-site practical exam.

Do You Really Need a Drywall Finisher Certificate?

The short answer is no. A drywall finisher certificate is not a requirement for most jobs in the construction industry, including drywall installation and finishing. However, having one could be beneficial in some circumstances.

A drywall finisher certificate is designed to demonstrate that an individual has achieved a certain level of proficiency in the art of drywall finishing. It can show employers that you are knowledgeable about the latest tools and techniques used to finish walls and ceilings. It also indicates that you have the ability to work quickly and efficiently while ensuring quality results.

Having a drywall finisher certificate may help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs or promotions. Having this certification may give employers confidence in your abilities and make them more likely to hire or promote you over someone without it. Additionally, having a certificate may provide access to better-paying jobs or opportunities for advancement within the field of construction.

Ultimately, whether or not you should obtain a drywall finisher certificate depends on your career goals and aspirations. If you think that having this certification would benefit your career, then it may be worth getting one. Otherwise, it’s probably not necessary for most job applications or promotions in the construction industry.

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FAQs About Drywall Finisher Certifications

1. What qualifications are needed to become a drywall finisher?

Answer: To become a drywall finisher, you typically need to have experience in the field and complete a certification program. The certification program generally includes safety training, basic carpentry skills, and techniques related to finishing drywall.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a drywall finisher?

Answer: The length of time it takes to get certified as a drywall finisher can vary depending on the type of program you choose. Most programs can be completed in about 4-6 weeks, but some may take longer if additional training is required.

3. Is there an exam I must pass to become certified?

Answer: Yes, most certification programs require that you pass an exam in order to receive your certification. This exam will test your knowledge of safety regulations and techniques related to finishing drywall.

4. What is the cost of becoming a certified drywall finisher?

Answer: The cost of becoming a certified drywall finisher can vary depending on the type of program you choose and where you take it. Generally speaking, courses range from $200-$500 depending on the length and complexity of the program.

5. Do I need any special tools or equipment for my certification?

Answer: Depending on the type of program you choose, there may be certain tools or equipment that you need for your certification course or exam. It’s best to check with your instructor prior to signing up for any program to ensure that all necessary materials are included in the course fee or provided by the instructor at no extra cost.