Top 10 Fence Installer Certifications

Certifications are important for fence installers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and experience that employers value. A certification can give an installer a competitive edge over other applicants, as it shows that they have taken the time to learn more about fencing installation and prove their expertise in the field. Additionally, many employers look for certified installers when hiring because it provides assurance that the job will be completed correctly and safely. Certifications also often come with additional benefits such as access to support networks, discounts on materials, and other exclusive offers.

The purpose of this article is to provide an overview of the best certifications for Fence Installers, and how they can help advance a fence installer's career.

What are Fence Installer Certifications?

Fence installer certification is a certification program designed to ensure that those installing fences are knowledgeable, experienced and competent in their field. The certification process includes a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as fence installation techniques, safety protocols, product knowledge and local regulations. By obtaining this certification, installers demonstrate to potential customers that they have the necessary skills and qualifications to properly install a fence.

In addition to providing peace of mind for customers, fence installer certification can also help businesses succeed. Installers who have been certified by a recognized organization are more likely to be viewed favorably by potential clients. Furthermore, having certified installers on staff can help companies differentiate themselves from competitors and may even lead to increased sales due to higher customer confidence. Finally, certified installers often receive discounts from suppliers or manufacturers due to their increased knowledge of the products being used.

Pro Tip: When hiring a fence installer, make sure they have certification from a national or regional organization. Certification will ensure the installer has the necessary knowledge and skills to complete the job safely and properly.

Related: What does a Fence Installer do?

Top 10 Fence Installer Certifications

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

1. Certified Fence Professional (CFP)

Certified Fence Professional (CFP) is a certification program offered by the American Fence Association (AFA). The AFA is the largest and oldest fence-related professional organization in the United States. The CFP certification is a voluntary program that recognizes professionals who have demonstrated knowledge, experience, and proficiency in the field of fencing.

The CFP certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as material selection, installation techniques, safety regulations, business practices, and customer service. Applicants must also have at least five years of experience in the fencing industry or have completed a minimum of 20 hours of approved continuing education courses.

It typically takes about four weeks to complete the application process and take the exam. Although there are no prerequisites for taking the exam, it is recommended that applicants have some prior knowledge or experience with fencing before attempting it.

The cost for taking the CFP exam varies depending on whether you are an AFA member or not. For non-members, it costs $295 to take the exam plus any applicable taxes. For AFA members, it costs $195 plus any applicable taxes.

Once applicants successfully pass their exams they will receive their official CFP certificate from AFA. This certificate will be valid for three years and can be renewed by completing additional continuing education courses or passing a recertification exam every three years.

2. Certified Fence Installer (CFI)

Certified Fence Installer (CFI) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have proven their knowledge and proficiency in the installation of fence systems. This certification is offered by the American Fence Association (AFA), which sets the standards for professional fence installation.

To become a CFI, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as fencing materials, post installation, gate construction, and safety considerations. The exam consists of both a written and practical component and requires a minimum score of 80% to pass.

The cost to take the CFI exam varies depending on the type of membership you have with AFA. For non-members, the fee is $250; for members, it’s $150. It typically takes between two to four weeks to receive your results after taking the exam.

Once you’ve passed the exam, you will be issued a certificate that is valid for three years. During this time, you must complete at least 12 hours of continuing education in order to maintain your certification status.

Overall, obtaining Certified Fence Installer (CFI) certification can help you stand out from other fence installers and demonstrate your commitment to providing quality service.

3. American Fence Association (AFA) Certified Installer

The American Fence Association (AFA) Certified Installer Program is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the highest level of knowledge and skill in the installation of fence products. The program provides installers with an opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to excellence in the industry and increase their credibility with customers.

To become AFA Certified, an individual must pass an exam that covers topics such as safety, product installation, local codes, and customer service. The exam is administered by a third-party testing organization and consists of multiple-choice questions. It typically takes about two hours to complete the exam.

In order to be eligible for the AFA Certified Installer Program, applicants must have at least three years of experience in fence installation or related fields. Additionally, applicants must provide proof of liability insurance coverage for any work they perform on behalf of their employer or clients.

The cost of becoming AFA Certified varies depending on the specific requirements set forth by the testing organization administering the exam. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$300 to take the exam and become certified. There may also be additional fees associated with renewing your certification every few years.

4. National Ornamental and Miscellaneous Metals Association (NOMMA) Certified Fabricator/Installer

The National Ornamental and Miscellaneous Metals Association (NOMMA) Certified Fabricator/Installer Program is a voluntary certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the fabrication and installation of ornamental and miscellaneous metals. It is designed to ensure that metal fabricators/installers have the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to produce quality workmanship.

To become a NOMMA Certified Fabricator/Installer, an individual must pass a comprehensive written examination administered by NOMMA. The exam covers topics such as safety, welding, fabrication techniques, finishing methods, installation procedures, customer service, and business operations. After passing the exam, applicants must complete an on-site inspection of their shop or facility by a NOMMA inspector to verify that they meet all applicable standards for fabrication and installation of ornamental and miscellaneous metals.

It typically takes between four to six weeks to complete the process of becoming a NOMMA Certified Fabricator/Installer. The cost of the certification varies depending on the type of certification sought; however, it typically ranges from $500 to $1,000 USD.

5. International Fence Industry Association (IFIA) Certified Installer

The International Fence Industry Association (IFIA) Certified Installer is a certification program that recognizes professional fence installers who have completed an in-depth training program and passed a rigorous examination. The IFIA Certified Installer Program provides installers with a comprehensive understanding of all aspects of the fence industry, including product knowledge, installation techniques, safety practices, and customer service.

To become an IFIA Certified Installer, you must complete an online training program and pass the IFIA Certified Installer Exam. The online training program typically takes 8-10 hours to complete and can be done at your own pace. The exam consists of 100 multiple choice questions and requires a minimum score of 80% to pass.

The cost for the IFIA Certified Installer Program is $350 USD. This fee covers the cost of the online training course and exam. Once you have successfully completed the program, you will receive an IFIA Certified Installer Certificate and be listed on the IFIA website as a certified installer.

6. American Society of Professional Fence Installers (ASPFI) Certified Technician

The American Society of Professional Fence Installers (ASPFI) Certified Technician is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to install, maintain, and repair fences. The certification is designed to ensure that fence installers are knowledgeable in the industry standards, safety regulations, and customer service expectations.

In order to become an ASPFI Certified Technician, applicants must complete a two-day training course. This course covers topics such as fencing materials and installation techniques, safety protocols, customer service best practices, and more. After completing the course, applicants must pass an exam in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the ASPFI Certified Technician program varies depending on the provider; however, it typically ranges from $500-$1000. This fee includes the cost of the two-day training course as well as the exam fee.

Once certified, technicians can use their credentials to demonstrate their expertise and commitment to quality workmanship in the field of fence installation.

7. Chain Link Fencing Institute (CLFI) Certified Installer

Chain Link Fencing Institute (CLFI) Certified Installer is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge, skill, and experience in the installation of chain link fencing. The program is administered by the CLFI and requires applicants to pass an online exam that covers topics such as safety, types of chain link fencing systems, installation techniques, and maintenance.

The process for getting certified typically takes about two weeks from start to finish. Applicants must first submit an application form with their contact information and any relevant experience or qualifications they may have. After submitting the application, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to take the online exam. Once the exam has been completed successfully, applicants will receive their official certification within two weeks.

The cost of becoming a CLFI Certified Installer varies depending on the type of certification being sought. Generally speaking, it costs between $150-$200 USD for basic certification and up to $500 USD for advanced certification. Additional fees may apply if additional exams are required or if additional training courses are needed.

Overall, becoming a CLFI Certified Installer is a great way to demonstrate your expertise in chain link fencing installation and can help you stand out from other installers in your area. It also provides you with access to exclusive discounts on products and services related to chain link fencing installation offered by CLFI members.

8. Vinyl Fencing Institute (VFI) Certified Installer

Vinyl Fencing Institute (VFI) Certified Installer is a certification program for professional fence installers. The certification is designed to ensure that installers have the necessary knowledge and skills to properly install vinyl fencing in accordance with industry standards.

The VFI Certified Installer program consists of an online training course, a hands-on installation test, and a written exam. To become certified, applicants must complete all three components within six months of registering for the program. The online training course covers topics such as safety, proper measurements, post installation, and more. After completing the online training course, applicants must pass a hands-on installation test at an approved VFI testing facility. Finally, applicants must pass a written exam administered by the Vinyl Fencing Institute.

The cost of becoming a VFI Certified Installer varies depending on the type of certification sought and the number of tests taken. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 to become certified as a Vinyl Fence Installer through VFI.

In addition to passing all components of the certification process, applicants must also be at least 18 years old and have experience in installing vinyl fencing or related products prior to applying for certification.

9. Wood Fencing Institute (WFI) Certified Installer

Wood Fencing Institute (WFI) Certified Installer is a certification program designed to recognize and promote those who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, skill, and experience in the installation of wood fencing. This certification is awarded by the Wood Fencing Institute (WFI), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting the use of wood fencing products and services.

To become certified as a WFI Certified Installer, an individual must complete an application process that includes submitting documentation of their experience with wood fencing installation. The application also includes a written exam that covers topics such as safety, installation techniques, product selection, and maintenance. Once approved, the individual will receive their certificate from WFI.

The cost of becoming a WFI Certified Installer varies depending on the type of certification sought. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$400 for individuals to become certified installers.

The time it takes to become certified varies depending on the individual's experience and how quickly they can complete the application process and written exam. In most cases, it takes approximately two weeks to become certified once all documents are submitted and approved.

10. National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Residential Construction Professional Certification Program

The National Association of Home Builders (NAHB) Residential Construction Professional Certification Program is a comprehensive program designed to certify individuals in the residential construction industry. This certification program is designed to recognize professionals who demonstrate a high level of knowledge and expertise in their field.

The certification process consists of three parts: an online course, an exam, and a hands-on project. The online course covers topics such as building codes, construction materials, energy efficiency, and safety. After completing the course, applicants must pass an exam that covers all aspects of residential construction. Finally, applicants must complete a hands-on project that demonstrates their ability to apply what they have learned from the course and exam.

The entire certification process typically takes between four and six months to complete depending on the applicant’s availability for study and completion of the hands-on project. To get started with the program, applicants must first register online at NAHB’s website and pay the associated fee which is currently $350 for members or $450 for non-members.

Once registered, applicants will gain access to all necessary materials including study guides, practice exams, and other resources needed to prepare for the exam. Upon successful completion of all three components, applicants will receive their Residential Construction Professional Certification from NAHB.

Do You Really Need a Fence Installer Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no. A fence installer certificate is not legally required in order to install a fence. However, many people consider it beneficial to have one in order to demonstrate competency and proficiency in the installation of fences.

Having a certificate may help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs, or even when bidding on projects. It can also give potential customers peace of mind that they are hiring someone who knows what they are doing, and can be trusted to do a good job. Additionally, some states may require a license or certification for certain types of fencing work; having a certificate can help you meet those requirements.

In conclusion, although having a fence installer certificate is not necessary for all situations, it can be an advantage in certain circumstances. It can make you more competitive in the marketplace and help ensure that you get the job done right the first time.

Related: Fence Installer Resume Examples

FAQs About Fence Installer Certifications

1. What is a fence installer certification?

A fence installer certification is an official recognition that a professional has the skills and knowledge to properly install fences. It is usually acquired through completing a certified training program or apprenticeship.

2. Is a fence installer certification necessary?

It depends on the job you are applying for, however, having a fence installer certification can help you stand out from other applicants and demonstrate your commitment to the profession.

3. How do I get certified as a fence installer?

In order to become certified as a fence installer, you must complete an approved training program or apprenticeship. This will provide you with the necessary skills and knowledge to properly install fences in accordance with safety standards and regulations.

4. How long does it take to become certified as a fence installer?

The length of time it takes to become certified depends on the type of program or apprenticeship you choose to complete; however, most programs take anywhere from 6 months to 1 year to complete.

5. Are there any prerequisites for becoming certified as a fence installer?

Yes, most programs require applicants to have basic carpentry skills and experience working with power tools prior to enrolling in their program or apprenticeship.