Top 11 Parking Lot Attendant Certifications

Certifications are important for a parking lot attendant in the job market because they demonstrate that the attendant has been trained and is knowledgeable about their job. Many employers look for certifications when hiring parking lot attendants, as this shows that they have taken the time to become educated on the role and can be trusted with customer service and safety tasks. Certifications also serve as proof of a certain level of competence, which is highly valued by employers. Additionally, certifications can provide an edge over other applicants who do not possess them, increasing an attendant’s chances of being hired.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Parking Lot Attendants and explain how they can help to advance a parking lot attendant's career.

What are Parking Lot Attendant Certifications?

Parking lot attendant certification is a type of training program designed to educate parking lot attendants on safety, customer service, and other important aspects of managing a parking facility. The program typically includes topics such as accident prevention, traffic control, security, customer service, and paperwork management. It is intended to ensure that parking lot attendants have the knowledge and skills needed to safely manage a parking facility.

The certification process typically requires attendants to complete both classroom and on-the-job training. This ensures that they have the necessary understanding of rules and regulations pertaining to their job and can effectively respond to any situations that may arise. By becoming certified, attendants are better prepared for their job responsibilities and are better able to provide customers with a safe and secure environment when they visit a parking facility.

In addition to providing safety benefits, parking lot attendant certification can also help improve customer service. Attendants who have been certified understand the importance of treating customers with respect while ensuring that all vehicles are parked in an orderly manner. This not only helps create a more pleasant experience for customers but can also result in increased revenue for the business due to improved customer satisfaction.

Pro Tip: To ensure that parking lot attendants are properly certified, always ask to see proof of their certification. This will ensure that your parking lot is compliant with local regulations and provides the best service possible to customers.

Related: What does a Parking Lot Attendant do?

Top 11 Parking Lot Attendant Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Parking Lot Attendants today.

1. Certified Parking Lot Attendant (CPLA)

Certified Parking Lot Attendant (CPLA) is a certification program designed to help parking lot attendants gain the knowledge and skills needed to provide quality service in their job. The program consists of an online course and a hands-on assessment that covers topics such as customer service, safety, and proper parking lot procedures.

The online course typically takes around 8 hours to complete, depending on the student's learning speed. After completing the course, students must pass a written test before they can take the hands-on assessment. The hands-on assessment includes practical exercises in which students demonstrate their understanding of parking lot procedures and safety protocols.

To get certified, students must register for the CPLA program through an accredited provider. Registration fees vary by provider but typically range from $50-$100 USD. Upon successful completion of both the online course and hands-on assessment, students will receive their CPLA certification card.

2. Certified Parking Professional (CPP)

Certified Parking Professional (CPP) is a certification program offered by the International Parking Institute (IPI). It is designed to recognize and promote excellence in parking management and operations. The CPP designation provides recognition of an individual’s commitment to professional development, experience, and dedication to the parking industry.

The CPP program consists of three levels: Certified Parking Professional (CPP), Advanced Certified Parking Professional (ACPP), and Master Certified Parking Professional (MCPP). Each level requires different levels of experience, education, and training. To become a CPP, applicants must have at least two years of full-time paid parking management experience or equivalent part-time experience; complete the IPI CPP application; take and pass the CPP exam; and pay an application fee.

The CPP exam is offered twice a year in March/April and October/November at various locations throughout the United States. The exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as parking facility design, operations, enforcement, customer service, financial management, marketing, technology, safety & security, legal issues & regulations, sustainability & green initiatives. The cost for the exam is $250 USD.

Once applicants have passed the exam they will receive their official CPP certificate from IPI within 4-6 weeks after passing the exam. The cost for certification is $95 USD for members or $145 USD for non-members.

3. Certified Valet Attendant (CVA)

Certified Valet Attendant (CVA) is a certification program offered by the National Parking Association (NPA). It is designed to provide valet attendants with the knowledge and skills necessary to safely and efficiently manage parking operations. The CVA program covers topics such as customer service, vehicle safety, parking lot layout and design, traffic flow management, and emergency response.

The CVA program consists of an online course that takes approximately 8 hours to complete. Upon successful completion of the course, participants must pass a written exam in order to receive their certification. The cost of the CVA program is $125 USD for NPA members or $175 USD for non-members.

4. National Parking Association (NPA) Certification

The National Parking Association (NPA) Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to work in the parking industry. It is designed to help professionals demonstrate their commitment to the highest standards of excellence in the field.

The certification process consists of three parts: an application, a written exam, and a practical exam. The application requires applicants to provide evidence of their experience in the parking industry and other related fields. The written exam tests applicants’ knowledge of parking management concepts, regulations, and best practices. Finally, the practical exam requires applicants to demonstrate their ability to apply this knowledge in real-world scenarios.

It typically takes around 6 months from start to finish for an applicant to complete all three parts of the certification process. To get started, applicants must first submit an online application at www.npaparkingcertification.org/apply/. This will require them to provide evidence of their experience in the parking industry or related fields as well as payment for the applicable fees (currently $195). Once accepted into the program, applicants will receive access to study materials and be able to schedule their exams with NPA staff or approved proctors.

The cost for NPA Certification is currently $195 USD per applicant, which includes all three parts of the certification process (application fee, written exam fee, and practical exam fee).

5. International Parking Institute (IPI) Certification

The International Parking Institute (IPI) is a professional association that provides certification to parking industry professionals. It is the only organization in the world that offers certification specifically for parking professionals. The IPI Certification Program is designed to recognize those who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the parking industry, and to promote excellence in the field.

It typically takes between 12-18 months to complete the IPI Certification process. The program consists of three levels: Certified Professional (CP), Certified Manager (CM), and Certified Executive (CE). Each level requires applicants to pass an exam and meet certain criteria related to their work experience, education, and other qualifications.

To get started on the path towards IPI Certification, applicants must first submit an application with all required documentation. This includes proof of current employment in the parking industry, a resume or CV outlining relevant experience, educational transcripts, and any other applicable documents. Once approved, applicants will receive access to study materials for their chosen level of certification.

The cost of IPI Certification varies depending on which level you are applying for. The CP certification costs $225 USD; CM costs $325 USD; CE costs $425 USD; and all three together cost $725 USD. There are also additional fees for late applications, re-exams, and other administrative services.

6. Automated Garage System Operator Certification

Automated Garage System Operator Certification is a certification program that teaches individuals how to safely and effectively operate automated garage systems. This certification program is designed for those who are responsible for the operation of automated garages, such as parking lot attendants, valets, and other personnel. The certification program covers topics such as safety protocols, system maintenance, and troubleshooting.

The Automated Garage System Operator Certification usually takes around 10-15 hours to complete. It can be completed online or in a classroom setting depending on the provider. To get certified, individuals must first pass an exam that covers the topics discussed in the course. The cost of the certification varies depending on the provider but typically ranges from $100-$500 USD.

In order to maintain their certification, operators must complete continuing education credits every two years. This ensures that they stay up-to-date with any changes in technology or safety protocols related to automated garage systems.

7. Certified Traffic Control Technician (CTCT)

Certified Traffic Control Technician (CTCT) is a certification program offered by the American Traffic Safety Services Association (ATSSA). The CTCT program is designed to provide certified technicians with the knowledge and skills necessary to properly install, maintain, and inspect traffic control devices.

The CTCT program consists of two parts: an online course and an on-site exam. The online course covers topics such as traffic control device installation, maintenance, inspection, and safety. Upon successful completion of the online course, participants must pass a hands-on exam at an ATSSA-approved testing site. To be eligible for the exam, applicants must have at least one year of experience in traffic control device installation or maintenance.

The cost of the CTCT program varies depending on whether you are taking the online course or attending an on-site exam. The online course costs $250 plus applicable taxes and fees. The on-site exam costs $125 plus applicable taxes and fees.

It typically takes about four weeks to complete the CTCT program from start to finish; however, this timeline may vary depending on individual circumstances.

8. Certified Parking Management Specialist (CPMS)

Certified Parking Management Specialist (CPMS) is a professional certification program offered by the International Parking Institute (IPI). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of parking professionals. The CPMS designation is awarded to individuals who demonstrate their expertise in the areas of parking management, operations, and customer service.

The CPMS program consists of three courses: Introduction to Parking Management, Advanced Parking Operations & Customer Service, and Professional Development & Leadership. Each course must be completed within two years of starting the program. Successful completion of all three courses leads to the CPMS designation.

To become a CPMS, candidates must have at least three years of experience in parking operations or customer service-related roles. Candidates must also pass an exam for each course with a score of at least 70%.

The cost for the CPMS program is $1,295 USD for IPI members and $1,595 USD for non-members. This fee covers all three courses as well as access to study materials and resources.

9. Certified Revenue Control Technician (CRCT)

Certified Revenue Control Technician (CRCT) is a professional certification program for individuals who work in the revenue control industry. This certification recognizes individuals who have demonstrated knowledge and expertise in their field by passing an exam administered by the International Association of Revenue Control (IARC).

The CRCT certification program consists of two parts: an online course and a written exam. The online course covers topics such as revenue control principles, technology, regulations, and customer service. The written exam tests the individual's knowledge of these topics. The exam is offered twice a year at various locations around the world.

To be eligible to take the CRCT exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience in the revenue control industry or have completed an IARC-approved training program. Applicants must also submit proof of their education and/or experience to be approved to take the exam.

The cost of taking the CRCT exam varies depending on where it is taken, but typically ranges from $200 to $400 USD. Once an individual passes the exam, they will receive a certificate that is valid for three years and must be renewed every three years in order to maintain their certification status.

10. Certified Accessible Parking Professional (CAPP)

Certified Accessible Parking Professional (CAPP) is a certification program created by the International Parking & Mobility Institute (IPMI). It is designed to help parking professionals understand and implement accessible parking regulations, guidelines, and best practices. The program provides training in the areas of accessible parking design, enforcement, customer service, and compliance.

The CAPP certification process consists of an online assessment that covers topics such as ADA requirements for accessible parking spaces; signage; enforcement; customer service; and compliance. Once the assessment is completed, candidates must complete a series of practical exercises to demonstrate their knowledge of the material. Upon successful completion of the assessment and practical exercises, candidates will receive their CAPP certification.

The cost for the CAPP Certification Program varies depending on whether you are an IPMI member or non-member. For members, the cost is $325 USD. For non-members, it is $425 USD.

It usually takes about 2-3 weeks to complete the program once you have registered for it. To get started with the CAPP Certification Program, you must first register on the IPMI website and pay any applicable fees. After registering, you will be given access to an online learning portal where you can view course materials and take assessments at your own pace.

11. Advanced Valet and Transportation Management Certificate

Advanced Valet and Transportation Management Certificate is a program offered by the National Parking Association (NPA). The program is designed to provide students with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to become successful valet and transportation professionals. It is a comprehensive program that covers topics such as customer service, parking operations, vehicle safety and security, event management, and more.

The Advanced Valet and Transportation Management Certificate program consists of five courses: Introduction to Valet Operations; Vehicle Safety & Security; Customer Service & Event Management; Parking & Traffic Control; and Advanced Valet Operations. Each course is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of the topics covered.

It typically takes 3-6 months to complete the certificate program depending on how quickly you can complete each course. To get the certificate you must successfully complete all five courses within one year of enrolling in the program.

The cost for this certification varies depending on your location but typically ranges from $500-$800 USD.

Do You Really Need a Parking Lot Attendant Certificate?

In most cases, no, you do not need a parking lot attendant certificate to work as a parking lot attendant. However, depending on the company and the specific job requirements, it may be beneficial to have one.

Having a certificate can show potential employers that you are serious about the job and that you understand the responsibilities associated with working in a parking lot. It also demonstrates that you are familiar with relevant safety protocols and customer service standards. In addition, some organizations require their employees to have certain certifications before they can work in certain positions.

If you are interested in pursuing a career as a parking lot attendant, it is always worthwhile to look into any relevant certification programs or courses available in your area. These programs provide valuable information and training on how to properly manage a parking lot as well as customer service skills and other pertinent topics related to running a successful business. Having this certificate could also open up more job opportunities since employers may be more likely to hire someone who has taken the time to get certified over someone who does not have any formal training or credentials.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a parking lot attendant certificate depends on your individual situation and the specifics of the job for which you are applying. If it is something that is required for your particular position then having one could be very beneficial for your career prospects; however, if it is not necessary for the role then it might not make much difference in terms of getting hired.

Related: Parking Lot Attendant Resume Examples

FAQs About Parking Lot Attendant Certifications

Q1. What is a parking lot attendant certification?

A1. A parking lot attendant certification is a credential that demonstrates knowledge and proficiency in providing customer service to patrons of parking lots. It typically involves training on safety protocols, procedures, customer service techniques, and related topics.

Q2. How do I become certified as a parking lot attendant?

A2. To become certified as a parking lot attendant, you should contact your local government or private employer that manages the parking facility to inquire about their specific requirements for certification. You may need to complete an approved training program and pass an exam to receive your certification.

Q3. How long does it take to become certified as a parking lot attendant?

A3. The length of time required to become certified as a parking lot attendant will depend on the specific requirements of the employer or governing body responsible for certifying attendants in your area. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months before you receive your certification depending on the level of training required and the availability of classes or exams needed for completion.

Q4. Are there any fees associated with obtaining a parking lot attendant certification?

A4. Yes, there may be fees associated with obtaining a parking lot attendant certification depending on where you are located and who is responsible for issuing the certificate. Generally speaking, these fees can range from minimal costs (such as an exam fee) to more substantial costs (such as tuition for an approved training program).

Q5. What benefits come with having a parking lot attendant certification?

A5: Having a valid parking lot attendant certification can provide various benefits such as increased job opportunities in the field and higher pay due to increased responsibilities associated with being certified; improved safety awareness; better customer service skills; and greater job satisfaction due to feeling more confident in one’s abilities when dealing with patrons at the facility.