Top 11 Training Instructor Certifications

Certifications for training instructors are important in the job market because they demonstrate a level of knowledge, experience and expertise in the field. They also provide potential employers with an assurance that the applicant has a certain level of competency and understanding of their subject matter. This can be especially beneficial when applying for positions that require specialized knowledge or skills. Additionally, certifications can help to give job seekers an edge over other applicants who may not have the same credentials. Lastly, certifications can provide credibility to an instructor’s resume and help them stand out from the competition.

The article reviews top certifications for Training Instructors and explains how they can enhance a training instructor's career.

What are Training Instructor Certifications?

Training instructor certification is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have demonstrated specialized knowledge, skills, and experience in the field of training instruction. Training instructors are responsible for providing guidance, support, and direction to learners as they acquire new skills and knowledge. Training instructor certification can help individuals demonstrate their proficiency in the field of training instruction by validating their expertise through an accredited program or organization. Certification can also serve as a valuable asset for those seeking career advancement or employment opportunities in the field. Additionally, certification can provide an additional layer of credibility to an individual’s resume and portfolio, which may help them stand out among other applicants. Furthermore, certified training instructors may be eligible for more competitive salaries and higher positions within organizations since they have been recognized as experts in their field.

Pro Tip: If you are looking to become a certified training instructor, make sure to research the requirements and qualifications of the certification program you are interested in. Different programs may have different prerequisites or require additional certifications in order to be eligible for the program. Additionally, look into any potential job opportunities that may be available after obtaining your certification.

Related: What does a Training Instructor do?

Top 11 Training Instructor Certifications

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

1. Certified Professional Trainer (CPT)

Certified Professional Trainer (CPT) is a professional designation that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of training and development. The CPT credential is awarded by the International Board of Certified Trainers (IBCT).

To become a Certified Professional Trainer, applicants must meet certain criteria, including having at least three years of experience in training and development, completing an approved course of study, passing an examination, and demonstrating knowledge in areas such as adult learning principles, instructional design, performance management, and evaluation.

The process to obtain the CPT credential typically takes 6-12 months. To get started, applicants must first complete an online application form to be considered for the program. Once accepted into the program, applicants must complete an approved course of study that includes topics such as adult learning principles, instructional design, performance management, and evaluation. After completing the coursework, applicants must pass a comprehensive exam to earn their CPT certification.

The cost for obtaining the CPT credential varies depending on which organization provides the coursework and exam. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD to become certified.

2. Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP)

Certified Training and Development Professional (CTDP) is a certification program designed to recognize the expertise of professionals in the field of training and development. It is offered by the International Board of Standards for Training, Performance, and Instruction (IBSTPI).

The CTDP certification is awarded to individuals who demonstrate their knowledge and experience in training and development. To be eligible for this certification, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in the field. They must also complete an approved course of study that covers topics such as instructional design, performance improvement, learning technologies, instructional delivery methods, evaluation techniques, and project management.

The CTDP certification process typically takes four to six months to complete. Applicants must first submit a completed application packet which includes a resume or CV, transcripts from any relevant courses taken within the last five years, three letters of recommendation from professional references, and a statement of purpose outlining why they are seeking the certification. Once accepted into the program, applicants will then need to pass an online exam which consists of multiple-choice questions covering all aspects of training and development.

The cost for obtaining the CTDP certification varies depending on several factors such as location and whether or not you are taking advantage of any discounts or special offers provided by IBSTPI. Generally speaking though, it can range anywhere from $400-$800 USD.

3. Certified Master Trainer (CMT)

Certified Master Trainer (CMT) is a professional certification offered by the National Board for Certified Trainers, Inc. (NBCT). It is designed to recognize trainers who have demonstrated excellence in their field and have achieved the highest level of professional development. The certification requires mastery of knowledge, skill and experience in the area of training and instruction.

To become certified as a CMT, applicants must complete an application process that includes providing evidence of their credentials, experience and expertise. They must also pass an examination that covers topics such as instructional design, adult learning theory, evaluation techniques and program management. The exam is administered by NBCT and typically takes 4-6 hours to complete.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also meet certain requirements related to continuing education credits. These include attending workshops or seminars on topics related to training and instruction; completing online courses; or participating in other types of professional development activities.

The cost of becoming a CMT varies depending on the type of training you pursue. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2,000 USD depending on the type of program you choose.

4. International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI) Performance Improvement Practitioner (PIP)

The International Society for Performance Improvement (ISPI) Performance Improvement Practitioner (PIP) certification is a professional credential that recognizes an individual’s expertise in performance improvement. It is designed to validate the knowledge and skills of practitioners who are responsible for assessing, designing, developing, implementing, and evaluating performance improvement initiatives.

It takes approximately 18 months to complete the requirements for the PIP certification. To be eligible for the PIP certification, applicants must have at least five years of experience in a performance improvement field. In addition, applicants must have completed at least three approved courses from ISPI or other approved organizations.

To get the PIP certification, applicants must submit an application to ISPI along with proof of their work experience and course completion. Once accepted into the program, applicants will need to pass a written exam as well as complete a portfolio review process. The portfolio review is conducted by a panel of experts who assess each applicant's ability to apply their knowledge and skills in real-world situations.

The cost of obtaining the PIP certification varies depending on whether you are an ISPI member or not. For non-members, it costs $1,000 plus applicable taxes and fees; members pay $750 plus applicable taxes and fees.

5. American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP)

The American Society for Training and Development (ASTD) Certified Professional in Learning and Performance (CPLP) is an internationally recognized certification program that demonstrates mastery of the knowledge, skills, and abilities related to training and development. It is a credential that recognizes individuals who have achieved a high level of expertise in the field of workplace learning and performance.

To become certified, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements, including having a minimum of five years’ experience in the field or three years’ experience plus a college degree. The CPLP also requires applicants to pass a comprehensive exam that covers topics such as instructional design, evaluation methods, performance improvement strategies, adult learning principles, and more.

The process for obtaining the CPLP typically takes about six months from start to finish. First, applicants must complete an online application and pay the associated fee ($495 for ASTD members; $695 for non-members). After submitting their application materials, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to access the CPLP Candidate Handbook and Exam Preparation Guide. Once they have reviewed these materials thoroughly, they can register for the exam through ASTD's website. The exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within four hours.

Once all requirements are met and the exam is successfully passed, applicants will be awarded their CPLP certification. This credential is valid for three years at which point it must be renewed by taking additional courses or passing another exam.

In total, obtaining the CPLP certification costs around $695 (for non-members). This includes both the application fee ($495) and the cost of taking the exam ($200).

6. Certified Technical Trainer (CTT+)

Certified Technical Trainer (CTT+) is a certification program offered by the Computing Technology Industry Association (CompTIA). It is designed to recognize and validate the skills of experienced trainers who have demonstrated proficiency in teaching IT-related topics. The CTT+ certification requires that candidates have at least two years of experience as an IT trainer, as well as knowledge and experience in the areas of instructional design, course development, delivery, evaluation and assessment.

The CTT+ certification exam consists of two parts: a multiple-choice section and a hands-on lab portion. The multiple-choice section covers topics such as instructional design principles, adult learning theory, technology integration, and assessment strategies. The hands-on lab portion requires candidates to demonstrate their ability to use various software applications related to training.

In order to become certified, applicants must pass both the multiple-choice section and the hands-on lab portion with a score of 70% or higher. Depending on your experience level and preparation time, it can take anywhere from three months to one year to complete all requirements for the CTT+ certification.

The cost for taking the CTT+ exam varies depending on your location; however, it typically ranges from $200-$400 USD. Additionally, you may need to purchase additional materials such as books or practice tests in order to prepare for the exam.

7. Microsoft Office Specialist Master Instructor (MOSMI)

Microsoft Office Specialist Master Instructor (MOSMI) is an advanced certification that recognizes experts in the Microsoft Office suite of applications. It is a globally recognized credential for those who have demonstrated their expertise in using and teaching Microsoft Office applications.

To become a MOSMI, you must first pass the Microsoft Office Specialist Expert exam. This exam tests your knowledge of the various applications within the Microsoft Office suite such as Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Access and more. Once you have passed this exam, you will be eligible to apply for the MOSMI certification.

The process to become a MOSMI typically takes around 6-12 months depending on how quickly you can complete all of the requirements. To get certified as a MOSMI you must complete two additional courses: The Microsoft Certified Educator (MCE) course and the Microsoft Office Specialist Master Instructor (MOSMI) course. Both of these courses are available online or through an approved training provider.

The cost of becoming a MOSMI varies depending on your location and training provider but typically ranges from $500-$2,000 USD.

8. Adobe Certified Instructor (ACI)

Adobe Certified Instructor (ACI) is a certification program for instructors who teach Adobe products. The ACI certification is awarded to instructors who have demonstrated the ability to deliver high-quality, engaging instruction in Adobe products. This certification requires that instructors demonstrate their knowledge of the product and their ability to effectively teach it.

To become an ACI, individuals must complete an online application and pass a written exam. The exam covers topics such as Adobe product features, teaching methods, best practices for instruction, and more. Once the application has been approved and the exam passed, individuals are awarded the ACI certification.

The cost of becoming an ACI varies depending on which Adobe product you are certified in. Generally speaking, it costs around $200-$400 USD per certification. It typically takes between two and four weeks to receive the ACI certificate after passing the exam.

9. Project Management Institute’s Project Management Professional-Trainer Certification

The Project Management Institute’s (PMI) Project Management Professional-Trainer (PMP-T) Certification is a globally recognized credential that demonstrates the individual’s expertise in leading and managing projects. The PMP-T certification is designed to help project management professionals become more effective and efficient at their job.

It takes approximately six months to complete the PMP-T certification program, which includes completing an online application, passing an exam, and attending a three-day training course. During the course, participants learn how to effectively manage projects from start to finish, including planning, scheduling, budgeting, risk management, and communication.

To get certified as a PMP-T Trainer, individuals must first have either a bachelor's degree or five years of experience in project management. They must also have completed 35 hours of professional development within the last five years and pass the PMP-T exam with a score of at least 70%.

The cost of the PMP-T certification varies depending on where you take the course. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $2,000 to $6,000. This includes the cost of tuition for the three-day training course as well as any additional materials needed for studying for the exam.

10. Association for Talent Development’s Instructional Design Certificate Program

The Association for Talent Development’s Instructional Design Certificate Program is a comprehensive training program that provides professionals with the skills and knowledge necessary to design, develop, and evaluate effective learning experiences. The program consists of five courses: Foundations of Instructional Design, Learning Content Development, Delivery Strategies and Technologies, Evaluation Strategies, and Advanced Topics in Instructional Design. Each course is offered online or in person at ATD locations across the United States.

The program takes approximately six months to complete. During this time students will gain an understanding of instructional design principles and practices, learn how to create engaging learning experiences, explore delivery strategies and technologies, develop evaluation plans to measure learning outcomes, and gain advanced knowledge in specific areas of instructional design.

To get the certificate, individuals must successfully complete all five courses within two years from the date of enrollment. Each course is offered online or in person at ATD locations across the United States. The cost for each course varies depending on whether it is taken online or in person; however, most courses range from $695 - $795 USD per course.

11. International Coaching Federation’s Professional Certified Coach Certification

The International Coaching Federation’s Professional Certified Coach (PCC) Certification is a credentialing program designed to recognize professional coaches who have achieved a high level of knowledge, skill, and proficiency in the practice of coaching. The PCC certification is based on the ICF’s Core Competencies for Professional Coaches and requires coaches to demonstrate their mastery of these competencies through an assessment process.

In order to become certified as a PCC, coaches must complete an application process that includes submitting documentation of their coaching experience, education, and training; completing an online assessment; and participating in an interview with an ICF-approved assessor. Once approved, the coach will receive a certificate from the ICF confirming that they have met all requirements for certification.

The entire process typically takes between two to three months from start to finish. To get started, applicants must first register on the ICF website and pay the applicable fees (which range from $50-$450 depending on which credential they are applying for). After registering, applicants will gain access to the online application form where they will be required to provide detailed information about their coaching experience and qualifications.

Once all documentation has been submitted, applicants will be invited to take part in an online assessment which consists of multiple-choice questions related to the ICF Core Competencies. After successfully completing this assessment, applicants will be invited to participate in a one-on-one interview with an ICF-approved assessor who will evaluate their performance against the Core Competencies.

Once all requirements have been met, applicants will receive their PCC certification from the ICF along with access to additional resources such as networking opportunities and discounts on continuing education courses. The cost for obtaining this certification varies depending on which credential you are applying for but typically ranges between $50 - $450 USD.

Do You Really Need a Training Instructor Certificate?

The short answer to this question is “it depends.” A training instructor certificate can be beneficial if you plan to teach or lead trainings in a professional setting. It may also be necessary for certain certification programs and job opportunities. However, not everyone needs a training instructor certificate to be successful as a trainer or facilitator.

If you are looking to work in the corporate world as an instructor, it is likely that you will need some kind of certification in order to demonstrate your qualifications and capabilities. A certificate can help show potential employers that you have the knowledge and experience required for the job. It can also demonstrate your commitment to continuing education and staying up-to-date with industry trends and best practices.

On the other hand, if you are simply looking to teach or facilitate workshops or classes on weekends or evenings, then a training instructor certificate may not be necessary. Many people who teach these types of classes do so without any formal qualifications or certifications – they simply share their knowledge and expertise with others in an informal setting.

In summary, whether or not you need a training instructor certificate depends on what type of teaching situation you plan to pursue. If you intend on going into the corporate world as an instructor, then it is probably best to get certified so that you can demonstrate your qualifications and capabilities effectively. However, if teaching is more of a hobby for you, then it may not be necessary for you to invest time and money into getting certified.

Related: Training Instructor Resume Examples

FAQs About Training Instructor Certifications

Q1. What are the requirements for becoming a certified training instructor?

A1. The requirements for becoming a certified training instructor vary depending on the organization or certifying body, but typically include completion of an accredited course, passing a certification exam, and demonstrating knowledge and skills in instructional design, adult learning principles, and facilitation techniques.

Q2. How long does it take to become a certified training instructor?

A2. The time to become a certified training instructor varies depending on the certifying organization or body; however, most require completion of an accredited course as well as passing a certification exam. Depending on the complexity of the course material, it can take anywhere from several weeks to several months to complete the program and pass the exam.

Q3. Is there any continuing education required to maintain a training instructor certification?

A3. Most certifying organizations require ongoing professional development activities in order to maintain their certification status. This could include attending conferences or workshops related to instructional design or adult learning principles or taking additional courses or exams related to skill development in these areas.

Q4. Are there any special qualifications required for those seeking certification as a training instructor?

A4. Most certifying organizations do not have specific qualifications that must be met; however, they may require applicants to demonstrate experience working with adults in an educational setting prior to applying for certification. Additionally, applicants may need to provide evidence of completion of college-level courses in instructional design or adult learning principles prior to receiving their certification designation.

Q5. What types of organizations offer training instructor certifications?

A5: There are many organizations that offer training instructor certifications including professional associations such as ATD (Association for Talent Development) and ASTD (American Society for Training & Development), universities and colleges offering certificate programs in instructional design or adult learning principles, and other private companies offering online courses or workshops designed specifically for those seeking certification as a training instructor