Top 10 Installer Certifications

Certifications are important for installers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge and skill that is necessary to be successful in the field. Certifications can also give an installer an edge over other candidates who may not have them. Employers are often more likely to hire certified installers because they know that these professionals have the training and experience needed to do the job correctly. Additionally, having certifications gives installers more credibility, which can help them land better jobs and higher pay.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Installers and explains how they can help to advance an installer's career.

What are Installer Certifications?

Installer certification is the process of verifying that an individual or business has met all necessary qualifications to be a certified installer. This includes having appropriate licenses, certifications, and training related to the installation of a particular product or service. Installer certification helps ensure that the customer receives quality installations and services at a reasonable cost. It also provides peace of mind for customers who are concerned about safety and reliability when dealing with contractors. Finally, it allows installers to demonstrate their expertise and gain recognition in their field, which can lead to more business opportunities.

Pro Tip: Installer certification is a great way to ensure that the person you hire for your installation project is knowledgeable and experienced in the job. Make sure to ask for proof of certification before hiring an installer, and if possible, confirm the certification with the certifying organization.

Related: What does an Installer do?

Top 10 Installer Certifications

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

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s skills and knowledge in the Microsoft Windows Server and related technologies. It is designed to validate a person’s ability to configure, deploy, manage, and troubleshoot server infrastructure solutions based on Microsoft Windows Server technology.

It typically takes between three to six months of study and preparation before taking the exam. The exact amount of time depends on the individual's experience with the technology and their ability to learn quickly.

To get MCSA certified, you must pass one or more exams that test your knowledge of the various aspects of Microsoft Windows Server. Exams can be taken at any authorized testing center or online through Pearson VUE.

The cost for each exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $100-$200 USD per exam.

2. CompTIA A+ Certification

CompTIA A+ certification is an industry-recognized credential that validates the knowledge and skills of entry-level IT professionals. It is a vendor-neutral certification that covers the fundamentals of computer technology, networking, and security. It also requires knowledge of basic hardware and software troubleshooting techniques.

The CompTIA A+ certification consists of two exams: 220-901 and 220-902. The 220-901 exam covers PC hardware, mobile device hardware, networking, and troubleshooting while the 220-902 exam covers operating systems, security, software troubleshooting, and operational procedures. Both exams are 90 minutes long and consist of multiple choice questions.

To get your CompTIA A+ certification, you must pass both exams with a score of 700 or higher on each exam. You can take the exams at any Pearson VUE testing center or online using their remote proctoring service. The cost for each exam is $211 USD (subject to change).

To prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification exams, you can purchase study materials from CompTIA or use free resources such as practice tests available online. It typically takes about 3 months to study for both exams if you dedicate yourself to studying every day.

3. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program from Microsoft that validates an individual’s expertise in designing and implementing solutions based on Microsoft technologies. The MCSE certification is designed for IT professionals who work with Windows Server, Azure, SQL Server, Office 365, SharePoint, Exchange Server, and other related technologies.

The MCSE certification requires individuals to pass a series of exams related to the specific technology they are certifying in. The exams cover topics such as installation, configuration, deployment, security, maintenance and troubleshooting of the products.

It typically takes around 6-12 months to complete the MCSE certification depending on the technology being certified in and how much time an individual can dedicate to studying for the exams.

To get the MCSE certification an individual must first register for an exam at a Pearson VUE testing center or online through Microsoft Learning. Once registered for an exam an individual must then study for the exam using resources such as books, videos or practice tests. After passing all required exams an individual will be awarded their MCSE certification.

The cost of taking each exam varies but typically ranges from $100-$200 per exam depending on which country you are taking it in.

4. Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC)

Linux Professional Institute Certification (LPIC) is a certification program designed to validate the skills of Linux system administrators and engineers. LPIC certifications are vendor-neutral and demonstrate a professional’s knowledge in administering Linux systems, as well as their ability to configure, manage, and troubleshoot a variety of hardware platforms.

The LPIC program currently offers two levels of certification: LPIC-1 and LPIC-2. The LPIC-1 certification covers basic Linux administration tasks such as installation, configuration, networking, security, and system maintenance. The LPIC-2 certification covers advanced topics such as web services, scripting languages, network services, system optimization, and virtualization.

It typically takes between six months to one year to prepare for the LPIC exams depending on your experience level with Linux. To get certified you must pass two exams: one for each level (LPIC-1 or LPIC-2). Each exam consists of multiple choice questions that test your knowledge on various topics related to Linux administration.

The cost of the exams varies depending on which country you are taking them in. Generally speaking they range from $100-$200 USD per exam.

5. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification program designed to demonstrate competency in administering Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. It is the first step in the Red Hat Certification Program, and is a prerequisite for many other certifications. The RHCSA certification requires that you pass an exam that tests your knowledge and skills in areas such as installation, configuration, troubleshooting, and system administration of Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems.

In order to get the RHCSA certification, you must pass the Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) Exam. This exam consists of two parts: an online multiple-choice section and a hands-on lab section. The online multiple-choice portion of the exam takes approximately two hours to complete, while the hands-on lab section typically takes around four hours to finish.

To prepare for the RHCSA exam, it is recommended that you take a course offered by Red Hat or an approved training provider. These courses are typically three to five days long and cost between $2,000-$4,000 depending on which course you choose. Additionally, there are self-study materials available from Red Hat that can be used to help prepare for the RHCSA exam.

The cost of taking the RHCSA exam is $400 USD per attempt. If you fail the exam on your first attempt, you may retake it at no additional cost within one year of your original purchase date.

6. VMware Certified Professional (VCP)

VMware Certified Professional (VCP) is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s knowledge and skills in VMware virtualization technologies. The VCP credential demonstrates that the holder has the knowledge and experience necessary to install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot a VMware vSphere environment.

It typically takes about three months to prepare for the VCP exam. To obtain the certification, you must first attend a VMware-authorized training course such as a vSphere: Install, Configure, Manage or Design Workshop. After completing the training course, you must pass two exams: one on vSphere fundamentals and one on advanced topics.

The cost of the certification varies depending on which version of vSphere you are studying for. Generally speaking, it will cost around $3,000 USD for all course materials and exams.

7. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA)

The Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) is a certification program designed to provide an entry-level understanding of Microsoft technologies. It is intended for individuals who are just beginning to explore the world of technology and are interested in learning more about the fundamentals of Microsoft products and services. The MTA certification is recognized by many employers as a valuable credential demonstrating an individual’s knowledge and skills in this area.

The MTA certification consists of nine core exams that cover topics such as Windows Server, Networking, Security, Database Administration, Software Development Fundamentals, Web Development Fundamentals, Windows Client Operating System Fundamentals, Mobile Development Fundamentals, and Cloud Computing Fundamentals. Each exam takes approximately 45 minutes to complete.

To obtain the MTA certification, you must pass all nine exams. You can take the exams online or at a testing center near you. The cost of each exam varies depending on where it is taken; however, most exams range from $50-$100 USD per exam.

In total, it should take approximately 10-12 hours to complete all nine exams and obtain the MTA certification.

8. Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP)

Apple Certified Support Professional (ACSP) is a certification program offered by Apple Inc. that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated proficiency in supporting and troubleshooting Mac computers and other Apple products. The certification is designed to provide professionals with the skills necessary to provide end-user support for Mac OS X and macOS operating systems, as well as related hardware and software applications.

The ACSP certification requires a minimum of nine hours of training, which can be completed online or in person at an Apple Authorized Training Center. The cost of the training varies depending on the location and provider, but typically ranges from $500-$1,000. After completing the training, individuals must pass a certification exam to receive their ACSP certification.

In addition to the training and exam fees, there is an annual renewal fee of $99 USD for maintaining active status as an ACSP. This fee covers access to updated materials and resources as well as ongoing technical support from Apple’s customer service team.

9. Citrix Certified Professional - Virtualization (CCP-V)

Citrix Certified Professional - Virtualization (CCP-V) is a certification program designed to validate the skills and knowledge of IT professionals in virtualizing applications, desktops, and servers with Citrix XenServer technology. The certification is targeted at system administrators, engineers, architects, and other IT professionals who are responsible for designing, deploying, managing, and troubleshooting Citrix XenServer environments.

To get the CCP-V certification, you must pass the Citrix Certified Professional - Virtualization (1Y0-311) exam. This exam consists of 60 multiple choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. The exam covers topics such as installation and configuration of XenServer hosts; networking; storage; resource pools; high availability and disaster recovery; performance monitoring; security; scripting; automation with PowerShell and WMI; and more.

The cost of the CCP-V exam is $200 USD. You can register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. After passing the exam, you will receive your official CCP-V certification from Citrix.

10. Oracle Certified Professional, MySQL 5 Database Administrator (OCP-DBA)

Oracle Certified Professional, MySQL 5 Database Administrator (OCP-DBA) is a certification program for professionals who want to demonstrate their expertise in administering and managing Oracle databases. This certification validates the knowledge and skills required to install, configure, maintain, and troubleshoot Oracle databases.

The OCP-DBA certification requires passing two exams: 1Z0-888 (MySQL 5 Database Administrator I) and 1Z0-889 (MySQL 5 Database Administrator II). The first exam covers topics such as installation, configuration, security, backup/recovery, performance tuning, and troubleshooting. The second exam focuses on advanced topics such as replication, partitioning, high availability solutions, data migration strategies, scalability options and more.

It usually takes around 3 months of preparation to get the OCP-DBA certification. During this period you should study the material provided by Oracle University or any other third party training provider. You can also take practice tests to ensure that you are ready for the actual exams.

To get the OCP-DBA certification you need to register for the exams at Pearson VUE or Prometric test centers. Each exam costs $245 USD but there may be discounts available depending on your location or other factors.

In total it will cost around $490 USD to get the OCP-DBA certification from Oracle University.

Do You Really Need a Installer Certificate?

An installer certificate is a document that certifies an individual has the knowledge and skills needed to install certain products or services. It is typically issued by a professional organization, such as a trade association, educational institution, or government agency. An installer certificate can be beneficial for those who need to prove their credentials in order to obtain work or advance their career in the installation field.

However, do you really need an installer certificate? The answer depends on your specific circumstances. If you are already employed as an installer and need to prove your qualifications for a job promotion or new position, then having an installer certificate may be beneficial. This document can also be useful if you are applying for jobs that require specific installation-related certifications or qualifications. Similarly, if you plan to start your own business as an installer, having a certificate can help demonstrate your competency and establish credibility with potential customers.

On the other hand, if you are just starting out in the installation industry and have not yet gained any experience or qualifications, then obtaining an installer certificate may not be necessary right away. You should first focus on gaining hands-on experience in the field before investing in a certification program. Additionally, some employers may only recognize certain certificates from accredited organizations so it’s important to research which certifications they accept before enrolling in any programs.

In conclusion, whether or not you need an installer certificate depends on your individual situation and goals. If you are already experienced in the field and want to demonstrate your credentials for a job promotion or new role then obtaining one may be beneficial. However, if you are just beginning your career as an installer then it may not be necessary right away and instead focus on gaining hands-on experience first before investing in any certification programs.

Related: Installer Resume Examples

FAQs About Installer Certifications

Q1. What is an Installer Certification?

A1. An installer certification is a credential that verifies an individual has the knowledge, skills, and abilities to safely and effectively install certain products or systems. The certification typically involves passing a written examination and/or completing a hands-on evaluation of the installation process.

Q2. How do I become certified as an installer?

A2. Becoming certified as an installer typically requires completion of a training course or program, followed by passing a written exam or demonstration of installation proficiency. Specific requirements vary depending on the product or system being installed.

Q3. Are there any prerequisites for taking the installer certification exam?

A3. Prerequisites vary depending on the type of certification being sought but may include completion of a training course, work experience in the field, or other qualifications as specified by the certifying organization.

Q4. How often must I renew my installer certification?

A4. Renewal requirements vary depending on the certifying organization but may include completion of additional training courses or re-taking the certification exam every few years to maintain active status.

Q5. Is there any cost associated with becoming certified as an installer?

A5. Yes, there may be costs associated with becoming certified as an installer such as fees for taking the exam, registration fees for attending training courses, and renewal fees to maintain active status in some cases.