Top 11 Right Of Way Agent Certifications

Certifications are an important part of the job market for right of way agents. These certifications serve to demonstrate a commitment to professional excellence and demonstrate that the agent has a broad knowledge base and an understanding of the specialized skills required for their field. It also shows potential employers that the agent is up-to-date on industry standards, regulations, and best practices. Certifications are also used as a benchmark for evaluating job applicants during the hiring process, as they provide evidence that the applicant has the necessary qualifications to perform the job effectively. Additionally, certifications can be used to increase an agent’s earning potential by providing them with access to higher paying jobs and more opportunities for advancement.

The purpose of this article is to review some of the top certifications for Right Of Way Agents and explain how they can help advance a right of way agent's career.

What are Right Of Way Agent Certifications?

Right of way agent certification is a professional credential for individuals who work in the field of real estate transactions involving rights of way. This certification provides recognition for agents who have acquired and maintained a high level of knowledge and experience related to right-of-way issues. It also serves as an assurance to employers, clients, and other stakeholders that the agent has a deep understanding of the laws, regulations, and procedures associated with right-of-way transactions.

Having this certification can provide a competitive edge when seeking employment or contract work in the right-of-way industry. Moreover, it can help agents command higher wages and fees due to their increased credibility and expertise. Additionally, agencies may require their employees to be certified in order to ensure that they are up to date on all relevant laws and regulations. Furthermore, having this certification helps agents stay informed about changes in the industry, enabling them to better serve their clients. Lastly, it allows agents to network with other certified professionals within their field which can lead to further opportunities for career advancement.

Pro Tip: To become a certified Right of Way Agent, you must complete an approved training program and pass the required certification exam. Additionally, it is important to stay current on changes in laws and regulations concerning right of way acquisition and management. Staying informed will help you provide the best possible service to your clients.

Related: What does a Right Of Way Agent do?

Top 11 Right Of Way Agent Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Right Of Way Agents today.

1. National Association of Realtors (NAR) Right of Way Agent Certification

The National Association of Realtors (NAR) Right of Way Agent Certification is a certification program that provides specialized training and education to real estate professionals who are involved in the acquisition of real property rights for public or private projects. The program is designed to ensure that these agents have the knowledge and skills necessary to properly handle right-of-way transactions.

To obtain NAR Right of Way Agent Certification, an individual must complete a comprehensive online course, pass an exam, and submit proof of completion. The course covers topics such as land use law, appraisal principles and practices, title research and examination, negotiation strategies, and more. The cost of the course is $250 USD.

Once the course has been completed and the exam passed, applicants must then submit an application for certification along with proof of completion to NAR's Real Estate Services Department. Upon approval by NAR staff, applicants will be issued a certificate verifying their status as an NAR Right of Way Agent.

The entire process typically takes between 4-6 weeks from start to finish.

2. International Right of Way Association (IRWA) Certified Right of Way Professional (CRWP)

The International Right of Way Association (IRWA) Certified Right of Way Professional (CRWP) is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of right-of-way. It is designed to provide a standard for recognizing and certifying those professionals who possess the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to perform their duties as right-of-way professionals.

To become an IRWA CRWP, applicants must successfully complete an extensive examination process that includes both written and oral components. The exam consists of five sections: Right of Way Law & Practices; Land Acquisition & Negotiation; Appraisal & Valuation; Environmental Issues & Regulations; and Management & Administration. Applicants must also demonstrate at least three years of experience in the field of right-of-way, with at least one year of experience in each section covered by the exam.

It typically takes approximately six months to complete the entire process from application to certification. To apply for certification, applicants must submit an application form along with a fee of $150 USD. Once approved, they will be required to pay an additional fee for the exam itself ($450 USD).

Once certified, IRWA CRWPs are eligible for membership in the International Right of Way Association and can use their credentials when applying for jobs or promotions within their field.

3. Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Certified Right of Way Agent

The Institute of Transportation Engineers (ITE) Certified Right of Way Agent is a professional certification program that recognizes the knowledge and skills of individuals who are involved in the acquisition and management of land rights for transportation projects. This certification is designed to ensure that right of way agents have the necessary qualifications, experience, and expertise to perform their duties effectively.

In order to become an ITE Certified Right of Way Agent, applicants must meet certain requirements including having at least three years of professional experience in right-of-way acquisition or related activities, passing a written exam, and completing a minimum number of hours of continuing education. The application process typically takes two to three months from start to finish.

To get started with the ITE Certified Right of Way Agent certification process, applicants must first submit an application package which includes a completed application form, transcripts from any relevant educational institutions attended, proof of three years’ professional experience in right-of-way acquisition or related activities, and payment for the applicable fees. Once all materials are received by ITE, applicants will be notified when they can take the written exam.

The cost for the ITE Certified Right of Way Agent program is $500 USD for members and $650 USD for nonmembers. This fee covers all costs associated with taking the exam as well as any applicable continuing education courses required for certification renewal.

4. American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Certified Right of Way Agent

The American Association of State Highway and Transportation Officials (AASHTO) Certified Right of Way Agent is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to perform right of way acquisition and relocation activities. The AASHTO Certified Right of Way Agent Program is designed to ensure that those working in the field have the necessary qualifications to carry out their duties.

To become an AASHTO Certified Right of Way Agent, an individual must complete a series of courses developed by AASHTO, pass a comprehensive exam, and meet other requirements as set forth by AASHTO. The courses cover topics such as legal aspects of right-of-way acquisition, appraisal principles and procedures, negotiation techniques, relocation assistance programs, and environmental considerations.

It typically takes between six months and one year to complete all the necessary requirements to become an AASHTO Certified Right of Way Agent. To get started on the path to becoming certified, individuals should contact their state department of transportation or local government agency for more information about the program.

The cost for certification varies depending on location but generally ranges from $500-$1,000 USD. This includes fees for course materials, exam registration fees, and any other related costs associated with completing the program.

5. National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) Certified Right of Way Agent

The National Society of Professional Surveyors (NSPS) Certified Right of Way Agent is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of competency in right-of-way acquisition and management. The certification is designed to provide assurance to employers, clients, and the public that the certified individual has demonstrated knowledge and experience in the field of right-of-way acquisition and management.

To become an NSPS Certified Right of Way Agent, applicants must meet certain educational requirements and pass an examination administered by NSPS. Applicants must have at least three years of full-time experience in right-of-way acquisition or related fields, or a combination thereof totaling three years. They must also possess either an associate’s degree or higher in land surveying, civil engineering, planning, real estate, law or related fields; OR at least two years of college coursework with emphasis on right-of-way acquisition; OR at least four years of full-time experience as a right-of way agent/acquisition specialist.

The NSPS Certified Right of Way Agent exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as legal aspects of right-of way acquisition, appraisal techniques, negotiation strategies and other related subjects. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete and costs $200 for members ($250 for nonmembers).

Once applicants have passed the exam they will be awarded the NSPS Certified Right Of Way Agent designation which is valid for five years from the date earned. To maintain their certification status they must complete 20 continuing education credits every five years.

6. National Association for Public-Private Partnerships (NAPPP) Certified Right of Way Agent

The National Association for Public-Private Partnerships (NAPPP) Certified Right of Way Agent is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and proficiency in the field of right-of-way acquisition. This certification is designed to help ensure that those involved in public-private partnerships understand the complexities of right-of-way acquisition, including the legal and financial aspects.

It typically takes between six months and one year to become certified as a NAPPP Certified Right of Way Agent. The process involves taking an online course that covers topics such as land use law, real estate law, eminent domain law, negotiation strategies, and more. Once the course is completed, applicants must pass an exam administered by NAPPP in order to receive their certification.

In order to become certified as a NAPPP Certified Right of Way Agent, applicants must first register with NAPPP and pay the applicable fees. The cost for registration varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of NAPPP; nonmembers pay $225 while members pay $125. After registering, applicants can then purchase the online course materials from NAPPP for an additional fee.

Once all requirements have been met and the exam has been passed, applicants will receive their official certificate from NAPPP recognizing them as a Certified Right of Way Agent. This certificate is valid for five years before needing to be renewed by taking another exam or completing additional continuing education courses offered by NAPPP.

7. American Planning Association (APA) Certified Right of Way Agent

The American Planning Association (APA) Certified Right of Way Agent is a professional certification for individuals who are involved in the acquisition, management, and disposal of real property rights. This certification is designed to recognize the specialized skills and knowledge needed to perform right-of-way duties in the public and private sectors.

It typically takes approximately one year to complete the requirements for this certification. To become certified, applicants must have at least three years of experience in right-of-way work and must pass an examination administered by the APA. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion that tests knowledge of right-of-way principles, procedures, and practices; and a practical portion that evaluates an applicant’s ability to apply those principles in actual situations.

The cost of obtaining this certification varies depending on whether or not you are already a member of the APA. For non-members, it costs $400 for both parts of the exam; for members, it costs $200 for both parts. Additionally, there is an annual fee of $50 to maintain your certification status.

8. American Institute for Conservation (AIC) Certified Right of Way Agent

The American Institute for Conservation (AIC) Certified Right of Way Agent is a professional certification program that recognizes individuals who demonstrate knowledge and experience in the field of right-of-way acquisition. The program was designed to provide recognition to those who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field, as well as to encourage continued learning and development.

To become an AIC Certified Right of Way Agent, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having at least five years of experience in right-of-way acquisition or related fields. They must also pass a comprehensive written examination that covers topics such as legal and regulatory issues, real estate principles and practices, appraisal methods, negotiation techniques, and more.

The process typically takes about three months from the time an application is submitted until the results are released. Applicants must pay a fee of $250 when submitting their application. After passing the exam, they must also pay an annual maintenance fee of $50 to maintain their certification status.

Overall, becoming an AIC Certified Right of Way Agent is a great way for professionals to demonstrate their knowledge and experience in this specialized field. It can open up new opportunities for career advancement and help them stand out from other applicants in job searches.

9. National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) Certified Right of Way Agent

The National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA) Certified Right of Way Agent is a certification program that provides recognition to individuals who demonstrate knowledge, experience, and competency in the field of right-of-way acquisition. The certification is intended to ensure that right-of-way agents are knowledgeable and competent in the principles and practices of right-of-way acquisition, including environmental protection, land use planning, and public involvement.

It typically takes 6 months to a year to complete the process of becoming a NEPA Certified Right of Way Agent. This includes completing an application form, passing an exam administered by the National Environmental Protection Agency (NEPA), and submitting evidence of professional experience in the field. Applicants must also meet certain educational requirements and pass a criminal background check.

To become a NEPA Certified Right of Way Agent, applicants must first submit an application form along with all required documents such as transcripts or proof of work experience. Once accepted into the program, applicants will be required to take an exam administered by NEPA which covers topics such as environmental protection regulations, land use planning principles, public involvement processes, and other related topics. After passing the exam with a score of at least 70%, applicants will receive their certification from NEPA.

The cost for becoming a NEPA Certified Right of Way Agent varies depending on individual circumstances but generally ranges from $500 - $1,000 USD. This cost includes application fees, exam fees, background check fees, and any additional costs associated with obtaining proof of work experience or educational credentials.

10. U.S. Department Of Transportation Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Professional Services Contractor Certification Program

The U.S. Department of Transportation Federal Highway Administration (FHWA) Professional Services Contractor Certification Program is a program designed to ensure that contractors working on federal-aid highway projects meet the highest standards for quality and safety. The program requires contractors to demonstrate their technical expertise, financial stability, and commitment to safety, environmental protection, and the public interest.

To become certified, contractors must submit an application to FHWA and provide evidence of their qualifications in areas such as engineering design, construction management, materials testing, and other related services. The application process typically takes between four to six weeks to complete.

In addition to the application process, applicants must also pass a written exam administered by FHWA in order to become certified. The exam covers topics such as contract law, project management principles and practices, cost estimating techniques, material testing methods, and other relevant topics related to federal-aid highway projects.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on the type of services provided by the contractor; however most applicants can expect to pay between $500-$2,000 for the certification process. This includes the cost of submitting an application as well as taking the written exam administered by FHWA.

Once certified by FHWA, contractors are eligible for federal-aid highway projects that require professional services contracts with FHWA oversight or participation. Certified contractors are also eligible for additional benefits such as access to exclusive training opportunities and networking events with other professionals in the industry.

11. The Council on Licensure, Enforcement and Regulation’s Real Estate Appraiser Qualification Board Certification Program

The Council on Licensure, Enforcement and Regulation’s (CLEAR) Real Estate Appraiser Qualification Board Certification Program is a voluntary program that allows real estate appraisers to demonstrate their commitment to professional development and ethical standards. The program is designed to recognize the highest level of appraisal practice by verifying an appraiser’s qualifications, training, experience, and knowledge.

In order to become certified through the program, an appraiser must meet certain requirements including:

• A minimum of three years of experience in residential or commercial real estate appraisal;
• Successful completion of the CLEAR Real Estate Appraiser Qualification Board Certification Exam;
• Completion of at least 75 hours of approved continuing education courses;
• Demonstration of a commitment to ethical practice and continuing education;
• Payment of an annual certification fee.

The certification process typically takes between 6-12 months depending on how quickly you can complete all the requirements. The cost for the exam is $200 plus any additional fees for required continuing education courses.

Do You Really Need a Right Of Way Agent Certificate?

No, you do not need a Right Of Way Agent Certificate to enter the Right of Way profession. However, having one may provide you with an advantage in the field. A Right of Way Agent Certificate is a certification that recognizes individuals who have completed specialized training and education in the right-of-way field. The certificate is awarded by the International Right of Way Association (IRWA) and typically requires completion of a course or program approved by the IRWA.

Those who obtain the certificate have gained knowledge in various topics related to right-of-way including land acquisition methods, legal terminology, appraisal principles, title research and more. Having this certification may give someone a competitive edge when applying for jobs within the industry as employers may view it as evidence of knowledge and expertise in the field. It could also potentially open up additional job opportunities that might not be available without this type of certification.

In addition to providing potential career advantages, obtaining a Right Of Way Agent Certificate can also provide personal satisfaction and recognition for your dedication to learning about right-of-way matters. Earning this certificate demonstrates commitment to your professional development and can be seen as an accomplishment on your resume or CV.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a Right Of Way Agent Certificate will depend on your individual situation and goals within the right-of-way industry. If you are looking for greater career opportunities or want to demonstrate your knowledge and commitment to your profession then obtaining this certification may be beneficial for you.

Related: Right Of Way Agent Resume Examples

FAQs About Right Of Way Agent Certifications

1. What are the requirements to become a Right of Way Agent?

Answer: The requirements vary by state and jurisdiction, but typically include a combination of education, experience, and/or certification. Generally, applicants must have at least an associate’s degree in real estate or related field, possess at least two years of relevant experience, and pass a written examination.

2. How do I obtain my Right of Way Agent certification?

Answer: To obtain your Right of Way Agent certification you must be approved by your local jurisdiction and submit an application for certification with all required documents and fees. You may also need to pass a written exam that is administered by the jurisdiction in order to receive your certificate.

3. How long is a Right of Way Agent certificate valid?

Answer: The length of validity depends on the jurisdiction where you were certified; it can range from one year to five years depending on the state or county regulations. It is important to keep up with any renewals that may be required in order to remain certified as a Right of Way Agent.

4. What type of continuing education is required for Right Of Way Agents?

Answer: Continuing education requirements vary by jurisdiction but typically include courses related to real estate law, right-of-way acquisition processes, appraisal methods, engineering principles, surveying techniques, and other topics related to right-of-way management.

5. Is there an exam I need to take in order to become a certified Right Of Way Agent?

Answer: Yes, most jurisdictions require applicants for Right Of Way Agent certification to pass a written examination administered by their local agency before they can be approved for certification.