Top 11 Highway Maintenance Worker Certifications

Certifications are important for highway maintenance workers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge, experience and competency that can set them apart from other candidates. They also provide employers with assurance that the worker is qualified to perform the tasks required and that they have the necessary safety training. Certifications can also help workers gain access to higher-paying positions, as well as give them an edge in negotiations for salary and benefits. Additionally, certifications may be required in order for a worker to obtain certain licenses or permits needed for jobs involving hazardous materials or special equipment.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Highway Maintenance Workers and explain how they can enhance a highway maintenance worker's career.

What are Highway Maintenance Worker Certifications?

Highway maintenance worker certification is a type of professional qualification that is designed to demonstrate that an individual has the necessary knowledge and skills to perform highway maintenance work. This certification can be obtained through a variety of organizations, such as the American Public Works Association or the National Highway Institute. It is typically available at the state or local level and may vary in terms of requirements.

The main purpose of obtaining this certification is to show employers that an individual has the qualifications needed to safely and effectively perform highway maintenance work. This type of certification also helps employers ensure that their workers have up-to-date knowledge on safety regulations, best practices, and other related topics. Additionally, it demonstrates to potential employers that a worker takes their job seriously and is willing to invest in their own education.

Having highway maintenance worker certification can also help individuals advance their careers by providing them with greater opportunities for promotions and higher pay. Furthermore, having this credential may give workers access to better benefits packages or even specialized training courses that are not open to those who lack certification.

In summary, highway maintenance worker certification can provide many benefits, both personally and professionally. It shows employers that an individual has the qualifications needed for safe and effective highway maintenance work, which can lead to higher salaries, better benefits packages, or even specialized training courses.

Pro Tip: Make sure to check the requirements for highway maintenance worker certification in your state or local jurisdiction before applying. Many states require specific types of certification, such as a Commercial Driver’s License (CDL) and/or Hazardous Materials Endorsement (HME), that must be obtained prior to beginning work.

Related: What does a Highway Maintenance Worker do?

Top 11 Highway Maintenance Worker Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Highway Maintenance Workers today.

1. Highway Maintenance Technician Certification

Highway Maintenance Technician Certification is a certification program offered by the National Center for Asphalt Technology (NCAT) that certifies individuals in the field of highway maintenance. This certification is designed to recognize and reward those who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the areas of asphalt pavement maintenance, repair, and construction.

The program consists of two parts: a written exam and an on-the-job performance evaluation. The written exam covers topics such as asphalt pavement design, construction techniques, maintenance techniques, materials selection, and safety practices. The on-the-job performance evaluation assesses the individual’s ability to perform various tasks related to highway maintenance.

In order to obtain Highway Maintenance Technician Certification, individuals must complete both the written exam and on-the-job performance evaluation with a passing score. The entire process typically takes about three months to complete.

The cost for obtaining Highway Maintenance Technician Certification varies depending on the location and provider offering the program. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$1,000 USD for both parts of the certification process.

2. Highway Maintenance Supervisor Certification

Highway Maintenance Supervisor Certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in the field of highway maintenance. The certification is awarded by the American Public Works Association (APWA) and is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the management, operation, and maintenance of highways and related infrastructure.

The certification process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete. It requires applicants to pass an exam covering topics such as traffic engineering, pavement design, construction techniques, safety standards, budgeting and financial management, project management, and environmental regulations. Applicants must also provide proof of at least five years of experience in highway maintenance or related fields.

The cost to obtain Highway Maintenance Supervisor Certification varies depending on the applicant’s geographic location. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$600 for the application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam.

To get certified, applicants must first submit an application package to APWA that includes their resume or CV along with proof of experience. Once approved, they will be assigned a mentor who will guide them through the process of studying for and taking the exam. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their Highway Maintenance Supervisor Certification certificate from APWA.

3. Highway Construction and Maintenance Supervisor Certification

Highway Construction and Maintenance Supervisor Certification is a certification program offered by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA). The certification program is designed to provide supervisors with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively oversee highway construction and maintenance projects.

The certification program consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. The Basic level covers topics such as safety, contract management, project planning, scheduling, and estimating. The Intermediate level covers topics such as cost control, environmental compliance, materials testing, and quality assurance. The Advanced level covers topics such as risk management, dispute resolution, financial management, and construction law.

The certification process typically takes between six months to one year depending on the level of certification desired. To become certified at any level applicants must first complete an online application form which includes a background check. Once approved applicants will then be required to pass a written exam administered by FHWA in order to receive their certificate of completion.

The cost of the certification varies depending on the level of certification desired but generally ranges from $500-$2,000 USD for all three levels combined.

4. Highway Maintenance Equipment Operator Certification

Highway Maintenance Equipment Operator Certification (HMEO) is a certification given to individuals who have demonstrated the ability to safely operate and maintain specialized highway maintenance equipment. This certification is awarded by the Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) and is valid for five years.

To obtain HMEO certification, applicants must complete a training program approved by the FHWA, which typically consists of classroom instruction and hands-on experience. The training program typically takes up to six months to complete, depending on the complexity of the equipment being operated.

Applicants must also pass an exam administered by the FHWA in order to receive their certification. The cost of obtaining HMEO certification varies depending on the type of equipment being operated and the length of the training program. Generally speaking, it can range from several hundred dollars to several thousand dollars.

5. Pavement Marking Technician Certification

Pavement Marking Technician Certification is a certification program offered by the National Center for Pavement Preservation (NCPP). It is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform pavement marking tasks. The certification program consists of two levels: Level I and Level II.

Level I covers basic pavement marking principles, such as types of materials used, surface preparation, application techniques, safety considerations, and other related topics. It takes approximately 10 hours to complete this level.

Level II covers more advanced topics such as traffic control, layout design, striping patterns, and more. It takes approximately 20 hours to complete this level.

To get certified at either level, you must take an online course offered through the NCPP website or attend an in-person training session. After completing the course or training session, you must pass a written exam in order to receive your certification.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on which level you are trying to obtain. For Level I certification, it costs $100 for members of the NCPP and $150 for non-members. For Level II certification, it costs $200 for members and $250 for non-members.

6. Bridge Maintenance Technician Certification

Bridge Maintenance Technician Certification is a certification program designed to help bridge maintenance technicians become more knowledgeable and proficient in the field of bridge maintenance. The certification program is administered by the National Center for Construction Education and Research (NCCER). It is designed to provide bridge maintenance technicians with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to safely and effectively maintain bridges.

The Bridge Maintenance Technician Certification program consists of two parts: Core Curriculum and Specialty Modules. The Core Curriculum covers topics such as bridge inspection, bridge safety, bridge construction, bridge repair, and bridge maintenance. The Specialty Modules cover topics such as steel fabrication, welding, concrete repair and replacement, timber repair and replacement, paint removal/application, painting techniques, electrical systems maintenance/repair/replacement, waterproofing systems installation/maintenance/repair/replacement, and other related topics.

The Bridge Maintenance Technician Certification program typically takes between one to three years to complete depending on the individual’s experience level. To get certified an individual must first complete the core curriculum modules then take a written exam that tests their knowledge of all topics covered in the core curriculum. After passing this exam they can then move on to taking specialty modules which may require additional exams or hands-on training depending on the module chosen.

The cost of getting certified varies depending on which modules are taken but generally ranges from $500-$1000 USD for all required courses plus any additional fees associated with taking exams or hands-on training courses.

7. Traffic Signals Technician Certification

Traffic Signals Technician Certification is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills necessary to install, maintain, and repair traffic signals. This certification is offered by the National Institute for Certification in Engineering Technologies (NICET).

To become certified as a Traffic Signals Technician, applicants must pass an examination that covers topics such as traffic signal components, installation techniques, maintenance procedures, and troubleshooting. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately four hours to complete.

In order to be eligible to take the Traffic Signal Technician Certification exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience in traffic signal operations or related fields. Additionally, they must have completed a training program approved by NICET or have equivalent experience in traffic signal operations.

The cost of taking the Traffic Signal Technician Certification exam varies depending on the applicant's location. Generally speaking, it costs between $100 and $200 for the exam itself. There may also be additional fees for study materials or other related expenses.

Once an individual has passed the Traffic Signal Technician Certification exam, they will receive their certification from NICET which is valid for five years from the date of issue. After five years, individuals must retake the exam in order to maintain their certification status.

8. Roadway Lighting Technician Certification

Roadway Lighting Technician Certification is a certification program that is offered by the International Association of Lighting Management Companies (IALMC). It provides certification to individuals who demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to install, maintain, and troubleshoot roadway lighting systems.

The certification process consists of two parts: an online exam and a practical assessment. The online exam covers topics such as roadway lighting design, installation, maintenance, and troubleshooting. The practical assessment involves hands-on training in which applicants must demonstrate their ability to install, maintain, and troubleshoot roadway lighting systems.

The entire certification process typically takes between three and six months to complete depending on the individual's experience level. Applicants must have at least one year of experience in roadway lighting or related field before they can apply for the certification.

The cost for Roadway Lighting Technician Certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

9. Stormwater Management Systems Technician Certification

Stormwater Management Systems Technician Certification is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have obtained the knowledge and skills necessary to properly inspect and maintain stormwater management systems. The certification is offered by the National Stormwater Center (NSC), a non-profit organization dedicated to promoting best practices in stormwater management.

The certification process involves completing an online application, paying a fee, and passing an examination. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as stormwater regulations, engineering principles, and maintenance techniques. To qualify for the exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience in the field of stormwater management or related fields.

The cost of the certification varies depending on the applicant's level of experience and type of training they have completed. Generally speaking, it costs between $400-$800 to obtain the certification. It typically takes between 3-6 months to complete the application process and take the exam. Once certified, individuals are required to renew their certification every three years by completing continuing education courses or attending workshops related to stormwater management systems.

10. Environmental Compliance Inspector Certification

Environmental Compliance Inspector Certification is a certification program offered by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to certify individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and skills in environmental compliance inspection. The program is designed to help ensure that inspections are conducted in accordance with EPA standards and regulations.

The certification process typically takes between four to six months, depending on the individual’s experience and training. To become certified, individuals must complete a series of courses, pass an exam, and submit an application for certification. The courses cover topics such as environmental regulations, inspection techniques, hazardous materials handling, sampling methods, and communication skills.

The cost of the certification varies depending on the number of courses taken and other factors. Generally, it costs around $2,000-$3,000 for all required courses and exams. In addition to this cost, individuals may also need to pay for travel expenses associated with attending classes or taking exams.

Once certified, individuals must maintain their certification by completing continuing education credits each year. This helps ensure that they remain up-to-date on current environmental regulations and best practices in inspection procedures.

11. Hazardous Materials Management Technician Certification

Hazardous Materials Management Technician Certification is a certification program designed to help individuals develop the knowledge and skills necessary to safely manage hazardous materials in the workplace. It is offered by the National Institute for Hazardous Materials Management (NIHMM).

The certification program consists of three levels: Basic, Intermediate, and Advanced. Each level requires successful completion of an exam that tests your knowledge of hazardous materials management principles and practices. The exams are administered by the NIHMM.

The Basic level requires passing a 50-question multiple-choice exam, which takes approximately two hours to complete. The Intermediate level requires passing a 100-question multiple-choice exam, which takes approximately four hours to complete. The Advanced level requires passing a 150-question multiple-choice exam, which takes approximately six hours to complete.

To get certified as a Hazardous Materials Management Technician, you must first register with NIHMM and pay the necessary fees. The fees vary depending on the level of certification you are seeking and range from $150 - $500 USD per exam. You should also be prepared to provide proof of your educational background or experience related to hazardous materials management prior to registering for any of the exams.

Once you have registered for an exam and paid the fee, you will be sent an email with instructions on how to access the online testing platform and take your exam at home or in a designated testing center near you. After successfully completing all three exams, you will receive your official Hazardous Materials Management Technician Certification from NIHMM within two weeks of taking your final exam.

Do You Really Need a Highway Maintenance Worker Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on what type of career you are pursuing. If you are looking to work as a highway maintenance worker, then it is likely that having a certificate in this field would be beneficial. A certificate can help demonstrate your knowledge and expertise in the field, making you more attractive to employers. It can also provide you with the necessary skills and qualifications to do the job effectively.

In addition to providing proof of your knowledge and skills, having a highway maintenance worker certificate can also give you an edge over other applicants for jobs in this field. It may provide employers with assurance that you are committed to the profession and have taken the time to learn the necessary skills and knowledge needed for success. This could make all the difference when it comes to being hired or not.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a highway maintenance worker certificate will depend on your own personal goals and aspirations. If you feel like having one could help further your career, then it may be worth considering getting certified.

Related: Highway Maintenance Worker Resume Examples

FAQs About Highway Maintenance Worker Certifications

1. What certifications are required for highway maintenance workers?

Answer: Highway maintenance workers typically need a driver’s license and certification in areas such as flagging, aerial lift operation, hazardous materials handling, and OSHA 10-hour safety training.

2. How long does it take to get certified as a highway maintenance worker?

Answer: The amount of time it takes to become certified as a highway maintenance worker varies depending on the type of certification needed. Some certifications may be obtained in one day, while others may require more extensive coursework and testing that can take several weeks or months to complete.

3. Where can I find information about certifying as a highway maintenance worker?

Answer: Information about certifying as a highway maintenance worker can be found at your local state Department of Transportation website, or through organizations such as the American Road and Transportation Builders Association (ARTBA).

4. Are there any special requirements for becoming a highway maintenance worker?

Answer: Yes, some states may require additional certifications or qualifications beyond those mentioned above. It is important to check with your local state Department of Transportation for specific requirements before beginning the certification process.

5. Is there an age requirement for becoming certified as a highway maintenance worker?

Answer: Generally speaking, no; however, some states may impose age restrictions on certain types of certification programs or qualifications related to operating heavy machinery or equipment used in road construction and repair work.