Top 11 Lighting Technician Certifications

Certifications for a lighting technician are important in the job market because they demonstrate that an individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform their job. Certification can also be a way for employers to assess if a candidate is qualified for a certain position. Additionally, certifications can provide a competitive edge when it comes to finding employment, as many employers prefer to hire those with certification over those who do not have it. This is especially true in the entertainment industry, where having credentials can make all the difference when it comes to being hired.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Lighting Technicians and explain how they can help advance a lighting technician's career.

What are Lighting Technician Certifications?

Lighting technician certification is a program designed to provide technicians with technical knowledge and experience in the area of lighting for film, television, theater, concerts, and other live events. This certification can help technicians gain a deeper understanding of lighting design and technology, as well as provide them with the skills needed to safely operate complex lighting systems. Lighting technician certification also helps ensure that technicians have an understanding of all safety protocols associated with operating this type of equipment. It also helps to demonstrate a level of proficiency when applying for jobs in the entertainment industry.

Having this certification can be beneficial for potential employers as it shows that the technician has received proper training and is knowledgeable about the different types of lighting systems used in the industry. Additionally, it can give employers more confidence in hiring someone who is certified due to their higher level of knowledge and ability compared to those without such qualifications. As technology continues to advance, having this certification may become increasingly important due to its ability to help keep technicians up-to-date on new developments in lighting design and technology.

Pro Tip: When seeking lighting technician certification, make sure to research the requirements of the certifying organization and ensure that you have met all of their requirements before submitting an application. It is important to understand what knowledge and skills are required for certification, so that you can prepare accordingly and be confident in your ability to meet the standards of the program.

Related: What does a Lighting Technician do?

Top 11 Lighting Technician Certifications

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

1. National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians (NABET) Lighting Technician Certification

The National Association of Broadcast Employees and Technicians (NABET) Lighting Technician Certification is a professional certification program for broadcast technicians who specialize in lighting. It is designed to recognize the knowledge and skills that are necessary to properly set up, operate, and maintain lighting systems used in television production. The certification is valid for two years from the date of issue.

To get certified as a NABET Lighting Technician, you must pass an exam that covers topics such as safety, rigging, power distribution, dimming systems, color temperature and gels. You must also demonstrate your ability to troubleshoot lighting problems.

The cost of the certification depends on the type of exam you choose. For example, if you take the online exam it will cost $150 USD; if you take the paper-based exam it will cost $200 USD; and if you take both exams it will cost $250 USD.

It typically takes between four to six weeks to complete the certification process from start to finish.

2. National Center for Media Forensics (NCMF) Lighting Technician Certification

The National Center for Media Forensics (NCMF) Lighting Technician Certification is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to work as a lighting technician in the media forensics field. The certification is offered by NCMF, an organization that provides training, education and resources related to media forensics.

The NCMF Lighting Technician Certification requires applicants to pass an exam that covers topics such as lighting techniques, equipment operation, safety procedures, and other related topics. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete. In order to be eligible for the certification, applicants must have at least one year of experience working in the media forensics field or have completed an approved course in media forensics.

In order to apply for the NCMF Lighting Technician Certification, applicants must submit an online application form along with proof of experience or completion of an approved course in media forensics. Once the application is approved, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for the exam and payment information. The cost of the exam is $195 USD.

Once applicants have successfully passed the exam, they will be issued a certificate from NCMF recognizing them as a certified lighting technician in the media forensics field. This certification is valid for three years after which time it must be renewed by taking another exam or submitting proof of continuing education credits earned during that three-year period.

3. Entertainment Services and Technology Association (ESTA) Lighting Technician Certification

The Entertainment Services and Technology Association (ESTA) Lighting Technician Certification is a certification program for individuals who work in the entertainment industry as lighting technicians. This certification program is designed to ensure that those working in this field have the necessary skills and knowledge to safely operate lighting equipment.

The ESTA Lighting Technician Certification is a two-day course which covers topics such as basic electricity, safety procedures, rigging techniques, and troubleshooting. Participants must pass a written exam at the end of the course in order to receive their certification. The cost of the course varies depending on location but typically ranges from $300-$500 USD.

In order to obtain this certification, individuals must first register with ESTA and pay a fee of $50 USD. Once registered, they will be able to sign up for the two-day course at an approved training facility near them. Upon successful completion of the course and passing of the written exam, participants will receive their ESTA Lighting Technician Certification card.

4. International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Lighting Technician Certification

The International Alliance of Theatrical Stage Employees (IATSE) Lighting Technician Certification is a certification program for lighting technicians. This certification is designed to provide professional recognition and demonstrate a level of knowledge and skill in the area of theatrical lighting. It is intended to be used as a tool for employers to identify qualified personnel when hiring new staff or evaluating existing staff.

In order to become certified, applicants must complete an approved IATSE training course and pass an exam with a minimum score of 80%. The training course typically takes between two and four weeks depending on the level of instruction desired. Upon successful completion of the course, applicants will receive their certificate from IATSE.

The cost of the training course varies depending on the provider, but generally ranges from $500-$1,000. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exam such as registration fees or proctoring fees.

In order to maintain certification, individuals must complete continuing education courses every two years in order to remain current with industry standards and practices.

5. American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) Lighting Technician Certification

The American Society of Cinematographers (ASC) Lighting Technician Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated a high level of technical proficiency in the art and craft of lighting for motion pictures and television. The certification is designed to provide industry professionals with recognition for their expertise in the field, as well as a way to demonstrate their commitment to excellence.

The ASC Lighting Technician Certification is available to anyone who has at least two years of experience in the field, or has completed an approved training course. The certification process involves passing a written exam, which covers topics such as lighting equipment, techniques, and safety. Applicants must also submit a portfolio of work demonstrating their skills and knowledge.

The entire certification process takes approximately six months from start to finish. To begin the process, applicants must submit an application form along with supporting documentation and fees. Once the application is approved, applicants will be assigned an individual mentor who will guide them through the entire process. This includes completing the written exam and submitting their portfolio for review by the ASC’s Board of Directors.

The cost for the ASC Lighting Technician Certification is $250 USD. This fee covers all materials associated with the program including study guides, access to online resources, and mentoring services. In addition, there may be additional costs associated with travel or lodging if necessary for taking the written exam or attending any required meetings or seminars.

6. United Scenic Artists (USA) Lighting Technician Certification

United Scenic Artists (USA) Lighting Technician Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the skill and expertise of lighting technicians in the entertainment industry. This certification is offered by USA, which is the labor union representing designers, artists, craftspeople, and technicians working in the entertainment industry. The certification is intended to demonstrate that individuals have achieved a level of proficiency in their field.

The certification process takes approximately six months to complete. During this time, applicants must complete an application packet and submit it to USA for review. Once accepted into the program, applicants will be required to take an online course covering topics such as rigging safety, lighting design principles, and electrical theory. After completing the coursework, applicants must pass a written exam administered by USA before they can receive their certification.

The cost of the USA Lighting Technician Certification varies depending on factors such as geographic location and experience level. Generally speaking, most applicants can expect to pay between $200-$400 for their application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the online course or exam.

In order to maintain their certification status, individuals must complete continuing education credits every two years in order to stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

7. Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) Lighting Technician Certification

The Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE) Lighting Technician Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of those working in the field of motion picture and television lighting. The certification is based on the SMPTE Recommended Practice for Lighting Technicians, which outlines the knowledge, skills, and abilities required to be a successful lighting technician.

To become certified as an SMPTE Lighting Technician, applicants must complete an online application form and submit it along with their resume or CV. Once approved, applicants must pass a written exam administered by SMPTE that covers topics such as lighting design principles, equipment operation and maintenance, rigging techniques, safety protocols, and troubleshooting procedures. The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and has a passing score of 80%.

The cost of the SMPTE Lighting Technician Certification is $300 USD. This fee includes the application fee as well as the cost of taking the written exam.

Once applicants have successfully passed the written exam they will receive their certificate from SMPTE which is valid for two years. They may then apply for recertification every two years by submitting proof of continuing education credits earned since their last certification or by taking another written exam.

8. Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Lighting Technician Certification

The Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) Lighting Technician Certification is a professional certification for individuals who are interested in working in the lighting industry. The certification is designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to work as a lighting technician, including installation, maintenance, repair, and troubleshooting of lighting systems.

To receive the IEEE Lighting Technician Certification, applicants must complete an online application and pass a written exam. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as electrical safety practices, basic electrical theory, and lighting system components. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and can be taken at any approved testing center or online through ProctorU.

The cost of the IEEE Lighting Technician Certification varies depending on where you take the exam. The fee for taking the exam at an approved testing center is typically around $200 USD while taking it online through ProctorU costs around $150 USD.

Once you have passed the written exam, you will need to submit proof of your experience in the field by providing documentation such as job descriptions or letters from employers verifying your experience with lighting systems. After submitting these documents, you will then receive your official certification from IEEE.

9. International Photographers Guild (IPG) Lighting Technician Certification

The International Photographers Guild (IPG) Lighting Technician Certification is a professional certification program for lighting technicians. It is designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of those who work in the field of photography. The certification is awarded by the IPG after successful completion of a three-day course that covers topics such as lighting fundamentals, equipment setup and operation, and troubleshooting.

To get certified, applicants must attend all three days of the course, pass a written exam with a score of 80% or higher, and complete an on-site practical evaluation. The course takes approximately 24 hours to complete and can be taken in person or online. The cost of the course varies depending on the location but typically ranges between $400-$600 USD.

Once certified, photographers will have access to exclusive resources from IPG such as discounts on gear rentals, access to industry events and seminars, and job opportunities. Additionally, they will be able to use their certification when applying for jobs or working with clients as it demonstrates their expertise in lighting techniques.

10. Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) Lighting Technician Certification

The Illuminating Engineering Society (IES) Lighting Technician Certification is a professional certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of lighting technicians. It is a voluntary certification that demonstrates proficiency in the installation, maintenance, and repair of lighting systems.

To become certified, applicants must pass an exam that covers topics such as electrical safety, lighting system components, lighting control systems, and energy efficiency. The exam consists of 80 multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to be eligible for the IES Lighting Technician Certification exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience in the field or have completed an approved training program. Additionally, applicants must be at least 18 years old and have a valid driver’s license or state identification card.

The cost of the IES Lighting Technician Certification exam varies depending on region but typically ranges from $150-$200 USD. In some cases, employers may cover the cost of the exam for their employees.

Once certified, IES Lighting Technicians are required to renew their certification every three years by completing continuing education courses or retaking the certification exam.

11. USITT/PLASA Rigging & Safety Training Program

The USITT/PLASA Rigging & Safety Training Program is a comprehensive training program designed to help technicians, engineers, and other professionals in the entertainment industry understand and apply safe rigging practices. The program consists of two levels of instruction: Level 1 and Level 2.

Level 1 is a one-day course that covers the basics of rigging safety, including an introduction to rigging terminology, equipment selection, inspection techniques, load calculations, and more. This level of training is suitable for those who are new to rigging or who need a refresher on the basics.

Level 2 is a two-day course that provides more detailed instruction on rigging safety topics such as fall protection systems, special event rigging considerations, temporary structure design principles, and more. This level of training is suitable for those who have already completed Level 1 and want to gain a deeper understanding of rigging safety principles.

The USITT/PLASA Rigging & Safety Training Program can be completed in as little as three days (one day for Level 1 and two days for Level 2). It can also be taken over multiple weeks or months if desired.

To get the USITT/PLASA Rigging & Safety Training Program certification, you must complete both levels of instruction with an approved instructor. There are several approved instructors located throughout the United States who offer this training program at various times throughout the year. You can find a list of approved instructors on the USITT website (www.usitt.org).

The cost for the USITT/PLASA Rigging & Safety Training Program varies depending on which instructor you choose and where you take it. Generally speaking, it will cost around $500-$1000 per person for both levels combined.

Do You Really Need a Lighting Technician Certificate?

When it comes to deciding whether or not you need a lighting technician certificate, the answer depends on what your ultimate goals are. If you are looking to become a professional lighting technician, then having an official certification can be incredibly beneficial. Having a certificate can open doors to potential employers and show that you have the knowledge and skills necessary for the job. It also allows you to stand out among other applicants who may not have taken the time to obtain a certification.

On the other hand, if you are simply looking to do some hobbyist-level work with lights, then having a lighting technician certificate may not be necessary. You will still want to make sure that you understand how to safely and properly operate any equipment that you use, but there is no need to pursue an official certification unless it is something that interests you.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a lighting technician certificate depends on what your end goal is. If becoming a professional in this field is something that appeals to you, then obtaining a certificate could be incredibly beneficial in helping you reach your goals. However, if all you’re looking for is some hobbyist-level work with lights, then there may be no need for an official certification.

Related: Lighting Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Lighting Technician Certifications

1. What type of certifications are available for lighting technicians?

Answer: There are a variety of certifications available for lighting technicians, including the Entertainment Technician Certification Program (ETCP), the National Association of Theatre Technicians (NAT) certification, and the Society of Motion Picture and Television Engineers (SMPTE).

2. How long does it take to complete a certification program?

Answer: The length of time needed to complete a certification program will vary depending on the type of program and the individual's skill level. Generally, most programs can be completed in 1-3 years.

3. Are there any prerequisites or requirements to become certified?

Answer: Yes, most programs require applicants to have at least two years of experience in stage and/or production lighting as well as completion of specific courses or workshops related to lighting technology.

4. How much does it cost to become certified?

Answer: Costs for certification can vary depending on the type of program and associated fees. Generally, costs range from several hundred dollars up to several thousand dollars.

5. Is certification required for employment in this field?

Answer: While certification is not always required for employment, many employers prefer to hire those with some form of professional certification as it indicates a higher level of knowledge and experience in the field.