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Top 10 Golf Cart Attendant Certifications

Photo of Brenna Goyette
Brenna Goyette
Certified Professional Resume Writer, Career Expert

Updated 16 min read

Certifications for golf cart attendants are important in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competency and knowledge about the job. Certifications can also be seen as a sign of commitment to the profession, which can help employers identify potential candidates that have taken the extra step to gain knowledge and experience in their field. Additionally, some certifications may provide additional benefits such as access to special discounts or resources for attending golf courses, making them more attractive to employers. Finally, certifications are often required by certain employers in order to be eligible for certain positions, so having one can increase the likelihood of being hired.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Golf Cart Attendants and explain how they can help advance their career.

What are Golf Cart Attendant Certifications?

Golf cart attendant certification is a training program designed to teach golf cart attendants the proper safety procedures and protocol for operating a golf cart. It covers topics such as vehicle operation, maintenance, customer service, and emergency situations. The course is designed to help ensure that golf cart attendants are properly trained and equipped with the necessary skills to safely operate and maintain a golf cart at all times.

The certification program provides attendees with the knowledge to operate and maintain a golf cart in accordance with local laws, regulations, and safety protocols. Additionally, it helps them become familiar with the basics of vehicle operation including acceleration, braking, steering, cornering, loading/unloading passengers or cargo safely. It also teaches them how to properly inspect a golf cart before each use including checking for tire pressure and brakes as well as inspecting the electrical system. Finally, it covers basic customer service skills such as courteous interaction with customers and responding appropriately to customer complaints or concerns.

By completing this certification program, golf cart attendants gain an understanding of their responsibilities when operating a golf cart on behalf of a business or private individual and can better serve their customers while promoting safety in the process.

Pro Tip: To become a certified golf cart attendant, it is important to complete all the necessary training and certification courses. These courses will teach you how to properly operate and maintain golf carts, as well as safety procedures that must be followed while on the course. Additionally, make sure to stay up-to-date with any changes in rules or regulations regarding golf carts to ensure your certification remains valid.

Related: What does a Golf Cart Attendant do?

Top 10 Golf Cart Attendant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Golf Cart Attendants today.

1. Certified Golf Cart Attendant (CGCA)

A Certified Golf Cart Attendant (CGCA) is a professional certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the operation and maintenance of golf carts. This certification is offered by the National Golf Course Owners Association (NGCOA).

To become certified, individuals must first complete a CGCA training program. This program consists of online coursework and hands-on instruction from experienced golf cart attendants. The online coursework covers topics such as safety protocols, customer service, cart maintenance, and more. After completing the online coursework, individuals must pass a written exam to receive their CGCA certification.

The cost of the CGCA training program varies depending on the provider. Generally speaking, it costs between $200-$500 for the entire program. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the written exam or registering for continuing education courses to maintain your certification.

Overall, becoming a Certified Golf Cart Attendant can be a great way to demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in this field. It can also help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs at golf courses or other related businesses.

2. Professional Golf Cart Attendant (PGCA)

Professional Golf Cart Attendant (PGCA) is a certification program designed to provide golf cart attendants with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely operate golf carts on golf courses. The program consists of a comprehensive online course followed by an exam that must be successfully passed in order to receive the PGCA certification.

The online course typically takes about 2-3 hours to complete and covers topics such as golf cart safety, proper operation of golf carts, and customer service techniques. After completion of the online course, applicants must pass a written exam in order to receive their PGCA certification.

In order to get your Professional Golf Cart Attendant (PGCA) certification, you will need to complete the online course and successfully pass the written exam. The cost for the PGCA program is $95 USD and includes access to the online course materials as well as the exam fee.

3. Certified Golf Cart Technician (CGCT)

Certified Golf Cart Technician (CGCT) is a professional certification program designed to provide golf cart technicians the knowledge and skills necessary to properly maintain and repair electric and gas-powered golf carts. The CGCT certification is offered through the National Golf Car Manufacturers Association (NGCMA).

The CGCT program consists of two courses: Core Maintenance & Repair and Advanced Maintenance & Repair. The Core course covers basic golf cart maintenance, troubleshooting, repair techniques, safety procedures, and electrical systems. The Advanced course focuses on more complex topics such as advanced diagnostics, engine rebuilds, suspension systems, and wiring diagrams.

The entire CGCT program takes approximately 8-10 weeks to complete. It includes both online instruction and hands-on training in a real-world setting. Students must successfully pass both courses in order to receive their certification.

The cost of the CGCT program varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $1,000-$2,500 USD. This fee usually covers all materials needed for the course as well as any exam fees associated with it.

In order to become certified as a CGCT technician you must be at least 18 years old and have a high school diploma or GED equivalent. You must also possess basic mechanical aptitude and knowledge of electricity/electronics principles.

4. Certified Golf Cart Maintenance Technician (CGCMT)

Certified Golf Cart Maintenance Technician (CGCMT) is a certification program offered by the National Golf Car Manufacturers Association (NGCMA). The program provides training and certification for technicians who work on golf carts. It is designed to ensure that technicians are knowledgeable about the latest technologies, safety standards, and maintenance procedures for golf carts.

The CGCMT certification requires successful completion of an online course and passing a written exam. The online course covers topics such as electrical systems, brakes, steering, suspension, engine maintenance, and more. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering all aspects of golf cart maintenance.

The CGCMT certification typically takes between four to six weeks to complete depending on how much time you dedicate to studying. To get certified, you will need to register with the NGCMA and pay a fee of $150 USD. Once registered, you can access the online course materials and take the exam when you feel ready.

Overall, getting certified as a Certified Golf Cart Maintenance Technician (CGCMT) is an excellent way to demonstrate your knowledge in golf cart maintenance and increase your career prospects in this field.

5. Certified Golf Cart Safety Technician (CGCS)

Certified Golf Cart Safety Technician (CGCS) is a certification program designed to provide golf cart technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to inspect, maintain, and repair golf carts in accordance with industry standards. The program is administered by the National Golf Car Association (NGCA).

The CGCS certification requires completion of a 16-hour course that covers all aspects of golf cart safety, maintenance, and repair. The course includes both classroom instruction and hands-on training. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive a certificate from NGCA recognizing their achievement as a Certified Golf Cart Safety Technician.

To become certified as a CGCS technician, individuals must first complete an approved 16-hour course. Courses are offered at various locations throughout the United States and typically cost between $400-$600 depending on location. After completing the course, individuals must pass an exam administered by NGCA in order to receive their certification.

Once certified as a CGCS technician, individuals can use their certification to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in golf cart safety and maintenance to prospective employers or customers. They may also be eligible for discounts on parts or services from some vendors that recognize the CGCS certification.

6. Certified Golf Course Management Professional (CGMP)

Certified Golf Course Management Professional (CGMP) is a professional certification program offered by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). The CGMP certification is designed to recognize golf course superintendents who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in golf course management.

To become certified, individuals must complete an application process that includes passing both the GCSAA's Certified Golf Course Superintendent Exam and the CGMP exam. The GCSAA's exam covers topics such as turfgrass management, soil science, plant pathology, entomology, and agronomic principles. The CGMP exam focuses on topics such as golf course operations, budgeting and financial management, personnel management, customer service, environmental stewardship, and safety practices.

The application process typically takes between four to six weeks to complete. Applicants must also submit an official transcript from their educational institution showing completion of at least two years of college-level courses related to turfgrass or golf course management.

The cost for the CGMP certification is $250 for GCSAA members and $350 for non-members. This fee includes access to the online study materials necessary for taking the exams.

7. Certified Golf Course Superintendent (CGCS)

A Certified Golf Course Superintendent (CGCS) is a professional designation awarded by the Golf Course Superintendents Association of America (GCSAA). The CGCS certification is an internationally recognized credential that demonstrates a commitment to the highest standards of golf course management.

The CGCS program requires individuals to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in turfgrass management, environmental stewardship, business management, and leadership. It is designed for experienced golf course superintendents who have at least five years of experience in the field.

In order to obtain the CGCS certification, applicants must first complete an online application and submit all required documentation. After submitting their application, applicants must then pass a comprehensive written exam that covers topics such as turfgrass science, agronomic practices, business principles, and environmental stewardship. After passing the exam, applicants must then complete a two-year internship period under a certified golf course superintendent.

The cost of obtaining the CGCS certification varies depending on several factors such as membership status with GCSAA and whether or not you are enrolled in any courses or seminars related to golf course management. Generally speaking, it will cost between $1,000-$2,000 USD to become certified.

8. Certified Turfgrass Manager (CTM)

Certified Turfgrass Manager (CTM) is a certification awarded to individuals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to manage turfgrass areas. The CTM certification is offered by the Professional Grounds Management Society (PGMS). To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as turfgrass science, maintenance, pest management, safety, and business management.

The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately three hours to complete. It can be taken at any of the PGMS-approved testing centers around the United States. Applicants must have at least two years of experience in turfgrass management or a related field in order to be eligible for the exam.

The cost of taking the CTM exam is $200 for members of PGMS and $250 for non-members. After passing the exam, applicants will receive their CTM certification from PGMS. The certification is valid for five years and must be renewed every five years in order to maintain its validity.

9. Certified Driving Range Operator (CDRO)

Certified Driving Range Operator (CDRO) is a certification program developed by the Professional Golfers’ Association of America (PGA). The purpose of the program is to provide golf facilities with qualified individuals who can safely and efficiently manage driving range operations.

The CDRO certification requires a minimum of 20 hours of instruction, which includes classroom time, on-range instruction, and an exam. The program covers topics such as driving range safety, customer service, golf equipment maintenance and repair, ball retrieval systems, and range management.

To become certified as a CDRO, applicants must complete an application form and pay the appropriate fee. After submitting their application and payment, applicants will be emailed instructions on how to access the online learning modules. Once all course materials are completed and the exam is passed with a score of 80% or higher, applicants will be issued their CDRO certification.

The cost for the Certified Driving Range Operator program is $400 USD.

10. Certified Clubhouse Manager (CCM).

Certified Clubhouse Manager (CCM) is a certification program designed to recognize and promote excellence in the management of clubhouses. It is offered by the Club Managers Association of America (CMAA). The CCM program is designed to equip managers with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to successfully manage a clubhouse.

The CCM program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course covers topics such as clubhouse operations, human resources, financial management, marketing and communications, customer service, hospitality industry trends and more. The course takes approximately 10-12 weeks to complete.

To become certified as a CCM, applicants must have at least three years of experience managing a clubhouse or related facility; have completed the CMAA’s online course; and passed the CCM exam. The cost for the online course is $1,000 USD. The cost for the exam is $225 USD.

Once certified, CCMs are recognized as having achieved a high level of professionalism in clubhouse management. They are also eligible for membership in CMAA’s Certified Clubhouse Managers Network (CCMN), which provides access to professional development opportunities and networking events with other certified clubhouse managers around the world.

Do You Really Need a Golf Cart Attendant Certificate?

Golf cart attendants are an important part of the golf course experience, managing and maintaining the fleet of golf carts used by players. Even if you have no prior experience in this field, many golf courses require that you obtain a golf cart attendant certificate before you can be hired.

The answer to whether or not you need a golf cart attendant certificate depends on the specific requirements of the golf course where you intend to work. Some courses may require it; others may not. It is important to note that even if a course does not explicitly require certification, they may still prefer applicants who are certified. Having a certificate in hand will demonstrate your commitment to safety and professionalism, making it easier for employers to trust that you will handle their equipment responsibly.

In addition to demonstrating your commitment to safety, having a golf cart attendant certificate can also help you stand out from other applicants. You will learn how to properly clean and maintain carts, as well as how to safely transport passengers around the course. These skills can give you an edge over other candidates who lack such knowledge and experience.

Finally, having a golf cart attendant certificate can open up more job opportunities for you at different courses throughout the country. Many courses list certification as one of their preferred qualities in job postings, so having one could help increase your chances of being hired at multiple locations.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a golf cart attendant certificate depends on the specific requirements of each individual course where you plan to work. However, obtaining one can give you an advantage over other candidates and open up more job opportunities for you in the future.

Related: Golf Cart Attendant Resume Examples

FAQs About Golf Cart Attendant Certifications

1. What is a Golf Cart Attendant Certification?

Answer: A Golf Cart Attendant Certification is a certification program designed to teach attendants the skills necessary to safely and effectively operate golf carts on the course. The certification covers topics such as vehicle operation, maintenance, customer service, and golf rules and etiquette.

2. How do I become certified?

Answer: To become certified, you must complete an approved training program and pass an exam administered by a qualified instructor. Most programs involve classroom instruction, hands-on practice, and a written exam.

3. How long does it take to get certified?

Answer: Depending on the program chosen, it can take anywhere from 1 day to 8 weeks to become certified. It’s important to research different programs to find one that meets your needs and fits your schedule.

4. Is certification required for employment?

Answer: Some golf courses may require attendants to be certified prior to employment or may offer certifications as part of their onboarding process. It’s important to check with potential employers before applying for positions to determine if certification is required or recommended.

5. What are the benefits of being certified?

Answer: Being certified can help demonstrate your knowledge of golf cart operations and provide you with an edge when applying for jobs in the industry. Additionally, many courses offer discounts or other perks for employees who are certified in this field.

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Brenna Goyette

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Brenna is a certified professional resume writer, career expert, and the content manager of the ResumeCat team. She has a background in corporate recruiting and human resources and has been writing resumes for over 10 years. Brenna has experience in recruiting for tech, finance, and marketing roles and has a passion for helping people find their dream jobs. She creates expert resources to help job seekers write the best resumes and cover letters, land the job, and succeed in the workplace.

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