Top 10 Fire Alarm Technician Certifications

Certifications are important for a fire alarm technician in the job market because they demonstrate knowledge, experience and commitment to the industry. Employers often require a certain level of certification before they will consider hiring a technician. A certification also shows that the technician has met certain standards and is knowledgeable about fire safety and alarm systems. The certifications provide assurance to employers that their technicians are qualified and capable of providing quality work. Additionally, certifications can give technicians an edge over other applicants in the job market who may not have them.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Fire Alarm Technicians and explains how they can contribute to a fire alarm technician's career development.

What are Fire Alarm Technician Certifications?

Fire alarm technician certification is a voluntary professional credential that recognizes individuals with the knowledge and experience to install, maintain, and troubleshoot fire alarm systems. This certification is earned by passing an exam administered by a nationally recognized testing organization such as the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET).

Having a fire alarm technician certification can help demonstrate to employers and customers that the individual has the necessary skills and knowledge to safely and effectively work on fire alarm systems. It can also help in obtaining higher pay or promotions due to their recognition of specialized skill sets. Additionally, having this certification can provide assurance that the individual is up-to-date on current industry standards and safety protocols. The credential also provides access to exclusive resources, such as continuing education courses or networking events for those who are certified. With these advantages, it's no surprise that more employers are requiring this type of certification when looking for qualified applicants.

Pro Tip: When seeking fire alarm technician certification, make sure to research the specific requirements for each certifying body in order to ensure you have met all necessary qualifications. Additionally, look into any potential continuing education requirements that may be required to maintain your certification status.

Related: What does a Fire Alarm Technician do?

Top 10 Fire Alarm Technician Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Fire Alarm Technicians today.

1. National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Fire Alarm Systems Level I and II

NICET Fire Alarm Systems Level I and II are two levels of certification offered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET). This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge, skill, and experience in the installation and maintenance of fire alarm systems.

Level I is designed for entry-level technicians who have a basic understanding of fire alarm system components, wiring, programming, and troubleshooting. Level II is designed for experienced technicians who have a comprehensive understanding of fire alarm system components, wiring, programming, and troubleshooting.

To become certified at either level requires passing an exam administered by NICET. The Level I exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 3 hours. The Level II exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 4 hours. Both exams are administered at testing centers throughout the United States.

The cost to take the Level I exam is $225 and the cost to take the Level II exam is $250. It typically takes up to 8 weeks after taking an exam for results to be available from NICET.

2. Factory Mutual (FM) Approved Fire Alarm Technician

Factory Mutual (FM) Approved Fire Alarm Technician is a certification program that recognizes technicians who demonstrate the highest level of fire alarm system knowledge and expertise. It is designed to ensure that technicians have the necessary training and experience to properly install, maintain, and inspect fire alarm systems.

The certification process typically takes between six months and one year to complete. During this time, applicants must pass a written exam as well as an on-site practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as fire alarm system components, installation requirements, maintenance procedures, inspection techniques, and troubleshooting methods. The on-site practical exam requires the technician to demonstrate their ability to install, maintain, and inspect a fire alarm system in accordance with established industry standards.

To become FM Approved Fire Alarm Technician certified, applicants must first meet certain prerequisites including having at least two years of documented experience working with fire alarm systems or completing an approved training course. Applicants must also submit an application form along with proof of their work experience or training course completion. Once accepted into the program, applicants can then register for the written and practical exams through FM Global’s website.

The cost of becoming FM Approved Fire Alarm Technician certified varies depending on the applicant's location but typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD. This cost includes registration fees for both exams as well as any applicable travel expenses for attending the on-site practical exam.

3. Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Certified Fire Alarm Technician

Underwriters Laboratories (UL) Certified Fire Alarm Technician is a certification program offered by Underwriters Laboratories, an independent safety science company. This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in the installation, maintenance and testing of fire alarm systems. It is the most widely accepted fire alarm technician certification in the United States.

The UL Certified Fire Alarm Technician program consists of two parts: a written exam and a hands-on practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as fire alarm system components, wiring methods, system design, installation techniques, and troubleshooting. The practical exam requires candidates to demonstrate their knowledge of fire alarm systems through hands-on activities such as installing and testing components.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the UL Certified Fire Alarm Technician program depending on the individual's experience level. Candidates must first complete an approved training program before taking the exams. After completing the required training and passing both exams, candidates will receive their UL Certified Fire Alarm Technician certificate.

The cost of becoming a UL Certified Fire Alarm Technician varies depending on the training provider chosen by the candidate. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000 for both exams and course materials combined.

4. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Fire Alarm Technician

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Fire Alarm Technician is a certification program designed to train and certify individuals in the installation, maintenance, and service of fire alarm systems. The certification is recognized by the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) as well as many state and local fire codes.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to become an NFPA Certified Fire Alarm Technician depending on the individual's prior experience and knowledge. To become certified, applicants must complete a training program that covers topics such as fire alarm system design, installation, maintenance, troubleshooting, and repair. After completing the training program, applicants must pass an exam administered by the NFPA to receive their certification.

The cost of becoming an NFPA Certified Fire Alarm Technician varies depending on the type of training program chosen. Generally speaking, most programs range from $500-$2,000 for tuition and materials. Additionally, there are often additional costs associated with taking the exam such as registration fees or travel expenses if it is taken at a remote location.

5. International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI) Certified Fire Alarm Technician

The International Society of Fire Service Instructors (ISFSI) Certified Fire Alarm Technician is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to install, maintain, and inspect fire alarm systems. This certification is designed to ensure that those working in the fire alarm industry are knowledgeable and competent in their field.

To become an ISFSI Certified Fire Alarm Technician, individuals must complete a training course approved by the ISFSI. The training course typically covers topics such as fire alarm system design, installation, maintenance, inspection, troubleshooting, and testing. Upon successful completion of the course, applicants must pass an exam to receive their certification.

The cost of becoming an ISFSI Certified Fire Alarm Technician varies depending on the provider offering the course. Generally speaking, courses range from $500-$1,000 USD for tuition fees alone. Additional costs may include textbooks or other materials required for the course.

The duration of the training course also varies depending on the provider offering it; however most courses take between two and four days to complete. After completing the course and passing the exam with a score of 80% or higher, individuals will be granted their certification which is valid for three years from date of issuance.

6. American Society of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE) Certified Fire Alarm Technician

The American Society of Sanitary Engineering (ASSE) Certified Fire Alarm Technician is a certification program designed to ensure that those who install, inspect, and maintain fire alarm systems have the knowledge and skills necessary to do so safely and effectively. This certification is offered through ASSE’s International Accreditation Program (IAP).

In order to obtain the ASSE Certified Fire Alarm Technician certification, an individual must first complete a training program approved by the IAP. These programs are typically offered by community colleges, technical schools, or other educational institutions. The length of time it takes to complete the required training will vary depending on the institution offering it. Generally speaking, most programs take between six months and one year to complete.

Once the training has been completed, individuals must then pass an exam administered by ASSE in order to receive their certification. The cost for this exam varies based on the country in which it is taken; however, it typically ranges from $100-$200 USD.

Finally, once an individual has passed their exam they will be issued an official ASSE Certified Fire Alarm Technician certificate. This certificate is valid for three years and can be renewed upon completion of additional continuing education courses as required by ASSE.

7. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Certified Fire Alarm Technician

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) Certified Fire Alarm Technician is a certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the installation, maintenance, testing, and repair of fire alarm systems. This certification is designed to ensure that fire alarm technicians are qualified to work on these systems in accordance with applicable codes and standards.

To become a NIST Certified Fire Alarm Technician, an individual must complete a comprehensive training course offered by an accredited provider. The training typically consists of both classroom instruction and hands-on experience. Upon successful completion of the course, the individual must pass an exam administered by NIST in order to receive their certification.

The length of the training course varies depending on the provider; however, it typically takes between two and four weeks to complete. The cost for the training course also varies by provider; however, it can range from around $1,500 to $3,000.

In addition to completing the training course and passing the exam administered by NIST, individuals must also meet certain prerequisites before they can be certified as a NIST Certified Fire Alarm Technician. These prerequisites include having at least two years’ experience in fire alarm system design or installation or having completed at least five approved courses related to fire alarm systems.

8. Building Owners and Managers Association International (BOMA) Certified Fire Alarm Technician

The Building Owners and Managers Association International (BOMA) Certified Fire Alarm Technician (CFAT) certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a technician’s knowledge and proficiency in the installation, maintenance, inspection, and testing of fire alarm systems. This certification is recognized as a standard of excellence in the industry and is awarded to technicians who demonstrate their commitment to safety, quality, and professionalism.

To obtain the CFAT certification, an individual must have at least two years of experience in fire alarm system installation or maintenance. The applicant must also pass a written examination that covers topics such as fire alarm system components, wiring methods, codes and standards, troubleshooting techniques, inspection procedures, and more.

The cost for taking the CFAT exam varies depending on the provider; however, it typically ranges from $150 to $200. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete. Once an individual has successfully passed the exam they will receive their BOMA CFAT certification card which is valid for three years before needing to be renewed.

9. Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Certified Fire Alarm Technician

The Canadian Standards Association (CSA) Certified Fire Alarm Technician certification is a program designed to provide technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to install, inspect, maintain, and repair fire alarm systems in accordance with the CSA’s standards. The program is offered by the CSA and administered through its partner organizations.

It typically takes between six to twelve months to complete the certification process. To become certified, applicants must first pass a written exam that covers topics such as fire alarm system design, installation, maintenance, inspection, and troubleshooting. Applicants must also complete a practical exam that tests their ability to install and maintain fire alarm systems in accordance with CSA standards.

The cost of the certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1000 CAD. This includes fees for both the written and practical exams as well as any additional materials or resources needed for study purposes.

Once certified, technicians are required to renew their certification every three years by taking an approved refresher course or exam.

10. International Code Council (ICC) Certified Fire Alarm System Inspector

The International Code Council (ICC) Certified Fire Alarm System Inspector is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and experience in the inspection, testing, and maintenance of fire alarm systems. This certification is intended for those who inspect, test, and maintain fire alarm systems in accordance with applicable codes and standards.

In order to become an ICC Certified Fire Alarm System Inspector, individuals must pass the ICC Certification Examination. The exam consists of two components: a written examination and a practical examination. The written portion covers topics such as fire alarm system design, installation requirements, inspection procedures, testing methods, maintenance requirements, and code compliance. The practical portion requires the applicant to demonstrate their ability to inspect, test, and maintain various types of fire alarm systems.

The process of becoming an ICC Certified Fire Alarm System Inspector typically takes several months to complete. After passing the written exam, applicants must complete a minimum of 16 hours of approved training prior to taking the practical exam. Once they have passed both exams they will be issued their certification card from the ICC.

The cost for becoming an ICC Certified Fire Alarm System Inspector varies depending on the jurisdiction in which you are seeking certification. Generally speaking it can range anywhere from $200-$500 USD depending on your location and other factors such as additional training or fees associated with taking the exams.

Do You Really Need a Fire Alarm Technician Certificate?

Yes, if you want to become a certified fire alarm technician, you do need to obtain a fire alarm technician certificate. A fire alarm technician is responsible for the installation, inspection, testing, and maintenance of all types of fire detection and suppression systems. These systems must be regularly inspected and tested in order to ensure that they are functioning properly and are able to detect any potential fires before they spread.

Having a fire alarm technician certificate is important for several reasons. First, obtaining certification demonstrates that the individual has been trained in the proper procedures for installing, inspecting, testing, and maintaining these systems. It also shows that the individual has received training on how to properly respond to emergency situations involving fires or hazardous materials. Finally, certification demonstrates that the individual is knowledgeable about local codes and regulations regarding fire safety equipment.

In addition to being beneficial for employers looking to hire certified professionals, having a fire alarm technician certificate can lead to higher salaries as well as opportunities for advancement within the field of fire safety technology. Therefore, if you are interested in becoming a certified professional in this area, it is important that you obtain your certificate so that you can demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in this field.

Related: Fire Alarm Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Fire Alarm Technician Certifications

1. What certifications do I need to become a fire alarm technician?

Answer: In order to become a fire alarm technician, you will need to obtain the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET) Level I and II certifications for Fire Alarm Systems. You may also need additional state or local certifications depending on where you live.

2. How long does it take to obtain NICET certification?

Answer: It typically takes about 6-12 months of studying and hands-on experience in order to successfully pass the NICET certification exams.

3. Where can I find study materials for the certification exams?

Answer: There are many online resources available for studying for the NICET certification exams, including practice tests and study guides from organizations like Pearson VUE and Prometric.

4. Are there any prerequisites for taking the NICET certification exams?

Answer: Yes, you must have a minimum of two years of documented work experience in fire alarm systems before you can take the NICET Level I exam and four years of documented work experience before taking the Level II exam.

5. Is there an age requirement for becoming a fire alarm technician?

Answer: No, there is no age requirement for becoming a fire alarm technician; however, applicants must be able to pass background checks and drug screenings as required by employers.