Top 11 Validation Technician Certifications

Certifications are an important asset for validation technicians in the job market, as they demonstrate a certain level of knowledge and expertise that employers look for. Certifications can prove to employers that a validation technician has the skills necessary to perform their job duties effectively and safely, which is essential in many industries where safety is paramount. Additionally, certifications show that a validation technician has kept up with new technologies and best practices, which can be invaluable in an ever-evolving industry.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Validation Technicians and explains how they can help to further a validation technician's career.

What are Validation Technician Certifications?

Validation technician certification is an important credential that provides validation professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to ensure the quality, safety, and effectiveness of complex systems. Validation technicians are responsible for validating processes, products, equipment, and software used in a wide variety of industries such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, biotechnology, food processing, and aerospace.

By gaining certification as a validation technician, individuals can demonstrate their ability to perform validations on time and within budget. Certification also provides validation technicians with the necessary knowledge to develop comprehensive validation plans and protocols that meet industry standards. Additionally, certified validation technicians have access to specialized training courses that cover topics such as regulatory compliance, data analysis, risk management, and process optimization.

Having a certification in this field can help individuals stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs in the industry or when seeking promotions at their current place of employment. It also allows employers to know they are hiring qualified personnel who possess the skills necessary to properly validate processes and products. Ultimately, having a validation technician certification can help individuals advance their career by demonstrating their commitment to excellence in the field of process/product validation.

Pro Tip: Make sure your validation technician is certified by a reputable organization. Certification is an important indicator of the technician's knowledge and experience in the field, as well as their commitment to staying up-to-date on best practices in validation.

Related: What does a Validation Technician do?

Top 11 Validation Technician Certifications

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

1. Certified Validation Technician (CVT)

Certified Validation Technician (CVT) is a certification program designed to provide validation professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary to perform validation activities in regulated industries. The certification program is offered by the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE).

The CVT certification requires candidates to have a minimum of three years of experience in validation activities, including two years of experience in the pharmaceutical or biotechnology industry. Candidates must also pass an exam that covers topics such as risk management, regulatory compliance, and validation principles.

The exam can be taken either online or at an ISPE-approved testing center. It takes approximately 3 hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. The cost for taking the exam is $450 USD for ISPE members and $550 USD for non-members.

Once a candidate passes the exam, they are awarded the CVT certification and can use it to demonstrate their expertise in validation activities. The certification is valid for three years from the date of issue and must be renewed every three years by passing a recertification exam or completing continuing education credits.

2. Certified Quality Validation Technician (CQVT)

Certified Quality Validation Technician (CQVT) is a certification that validates an individual’s knowledge and expertise in quality validation. The CQVT certification is issued by the American Society for Quality (ASQ). It is designed to demonstrate the ability of individuals to perform independent quality assurance activities on products, processes, and services.

The CQVT certification requires passing an exam which consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as risk management, quality systems, process validation, statistical analysis, and auditing. To take the exam, applicants must have at least two years of experience in quality assurance or related fields.

The exam takes approximately three hours to complete and costs $395 USD. The cost includes the exam fee and study materials. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their CQVT certificate within 8-10 weeks.

In order to maintain the CQVT certification, individuals must complete continuing education credits every three years. This can be done through attending seminars or online courses related to quality assurance.

3. Certified Medical Device Validation Technician (CMDVT)

A Certified Medical Device Validation Technician (CMDVT) is a professional who has been trained and certified to perform medical device validation activities. The certification is offered by the International Association for Medical Device Validation (IAMV). It is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of medical device validation principles and practices, including risk management, design control, process control, software validation, and testing.

The certification requires applicants to have at least two years of experience in the medical device industry or equivalent training. Applicants must also pass an online exam that covers topics such as regulatory requirements, validation methods, and quality assurance processes. The exam can be taken at any time during the year and takes approximately two hours to complete.

In order to become certified as a CMDVT, applicants must submit an application form along with their resume and proof of experience or training. Once the application is approved, applicants will receive an email with instructions on how to access the online exam. After successfully completing the exam, applicants will receive their CMDVT certificate within four weeks.

The cost for becoming a CMDVT varies based on whether you are an IAMV member or not. For non-members, it costs $395 USD while members pay $295 USD.

4. Certified Automation Validation Technician (CAVT)

Certified Automation Validation Technician (CAVT) is a certification program that provides validation and verification of automation systems. It is designed to give professionals the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to validate and verify automation systems.

The CAVT program takes approximately 3-6 months to complete. The program consists of three parts: a written exam, practical exercises, and an on-site assessment. The written exam covers topics such as automation system architecture, software development life cycle, system testing, configuration management, and validation techniques. The practical exercises involve hands-on experience with various automation systems such as PLCs and SCADA systems. The on-site assessment involves a review of the candidate’s work by a qualified assessor.

To get certified as a CAVT, you must first meet the eligibility requirements for the program. These include having at least two years of experience in automation system validation or verification; having completed at least one year of college or university coursework in engineering or related fields; passing the written exam; and successfully completing the practical exercises and on-site assessment. Once all these requirements have been met, you will be issued your certification.

The cost of becoming certified as a CAVT varies depending on where you take the courses and exams. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD depending on your specific needs.

5. Certified Pharmaceutical Validation Technician (CPVT)

Certified Pharmaceutical Validation Technician (CPVT) is a professional certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated excellence in the field of pharmaceutical validation. The CPVT program is administered by the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE).

The CPVT program is intended to provide recognition to those individuals who have achieved a level of expertise and proficiency in the area of pharmaceutical validation. It also serves as an assurance that those certified have met established standards of knowledge, experience, and performance.

In order to become a Certified Pharmaceutical Validation Technician (CPVT), an individual must pass an examination administered by ISPE. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions covering topics such as validation principles and practices, regulatory requirements, risk management, and quality assurance. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete.

In addition to passing the exam, applicants must also meet certain educational and work experience requirements in order to be eligible for certification. Applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree in science or engineering from an accredited university or college; at least three years of relevant work experience; and completion of at least one approved training course in pharmaceutical validation.

The cost for taking the CPVT exam is $450 USD for ISPE members and $550 USD for non-members.

6. Certified Software Validation Technician (CSVT)

Certified Software Validation Technician (CSVT) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in software validation and verification. The certification is intended to demonstrate that the individual has the knowledge and skills necessary to perform software validation activities in accordance with industry standards and best practices.

The CSVT certification is offered by the International Association for Software Testing (IASST). It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the CSVT program, depending on how much time an individual can dedicate to studying and preparing for the exam. To get certified, an individual must first pass a written examination that covers topics such as software development life cycle, requirements engineering, testing techniques, risk management, and quality assurance. After passing the exam, an individual must then complete a practical project that demonstrates their ability to apply their knowledge of software validation principles.

The cost of getting certified as a Certified Software Validation Technician (CSVT) varies depending on where you take your exam. Generally speaking, it costs around $500-$600 USD for the application fee plus any additional fees associated with taking the exam.

7. Certified Process Validation Technician (CPVT)

Certified Process Validation Technician (CPVT) is a certification program designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills required to perform process validation in a regulated environment. The CPVT certification is offered by the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE).

To obtain the CPVT certification, candidates must complete an online training course that covers topics such as process validation principles, regulatory requirements, risk management, and quality assurance. Upon completion of the course, candidates must pass an exam with a score of 70% or higher. The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and takes approximately two hours to complete.

The cost of the CPVT certification is $595 USD for ISPE members and $795 USD for non-members. The fee includes access to the online training course and exam. After passing the exam, candidates will receive their CPVT certificate within 8-10 weeks.

8. Certified Industrial Validation Technician (CIVT)

Certified Industrial Validation Technician (CIVT) is a professional designation awarded by the International Society of Automation (ISA). It is designed to recognize and validate the knowledge, skills, and abilities of individuals who work in the industrial automation field. The CIVT certification demonstrates an individual’s commitment to excellence and their dedication to staying abreast of the latest technology and trends in industrial automation.

The CIVT certification process takes approximately six months to complete. To become certified, applicants must first pass an online exam that covers topics such as safety, system design, programming, networking, troubleshooting, and maintenance. After passing the exam, applicants must then complete a hands-on project that involves developing a working system using industrial automation components. Upon successful completion of both the exam and the project, applicants will receive their CIVT certification.

The cost for taking the CIVT exam varies depending on where you take it. In most cases it will cost between $200-$400 USD. Additionally, there may be additional costs associated with completing the hands-on project such as purchasing materials or renting equipment if necessary.

9. Certified Electronics Validation Technician (CEVT)

Certified Electronics Validation Technician (CEVT) is a certification program offered by the International Society of Certified Electronics Technicians (ISCET). The CEVT certification validates a technician’s knowledge, skills and abilities in electronics validation. This certification is designed for technicians who work in the electronics industry, especially those involved in product validation and verification.

To become certified as a CEVT, individuals must have at least two years of experience working with electronic systems. They must also pass an exam that covers topics such as electrical safety, troubleshooting and repair, design/manufacturing processes, system integration, and quality assurance.

The CEVT exam takes approximately four hours to complete and consists of multiple-choice questions. The cost of the exam is $250 USD. After passing the exam, individuals will receive their CEVT certification which is valid for three years. To maintain their certification status, they must complete 16 hours of continuing education every three years.

10. Certified Calibration and Measurement Validation Technician (CCMVT)

Certified Calibration and Measurement Validation Technician (CCMVT) is a professional certification program designed to help technicians demonstrate their knowledge and skills in the field of calibration and measurement validation. The CCMVT certification is offered by the International Society for Measurement and Control (ISMC).

The program requires applicants to complete a series of courses, pass an exam, and submit a portfolio demonstrating their experience in the field. The courses cover topics such as metrology, instrumentation, calibration methods, data analysis, uncertainty analysis, traceability, and quality assurance. Upon successful completion of the program requirements, applicants are awarded the CCMVT certification.

The program typically takes between 6 months to 1 year to complete. To get started with the program, applicants must first register with ISMC and pay the registration fee. After registration is complete, applicants will receive access to course materials and instructions on how to proceed with their studies. Once all course requirements have been completed and passed, applicants must submit their portfolio for review by an ISMC-approved evaluator. If approved by the evaluator, applicants will be awarded their CCMVT certification.

The cost of obtaining the CCMVT certification varies depending on where you are located; however it typically ranges from $500-$1000 USD.

11. Certified Laboratory Equipment Validation Technician (CLEVT).

Certified Laboratory Equipment Validation Technician (CLEVT) is an internationally recognized certification program designed to provide laboratory personnel with the knowledge and skills necessary to validate laboratory equipment. It is a comprehensive program that covers all aspects of validation, including the development of a validation plan, installation qualification (IQ), operational qualification (OQ), performance qualification (PQ), and other related topics. The certification is valid for three years and requires renewal every three years.

In order to become certified, individuals must complete a training course offered by an accredited provider. Training courses can range from one day to several days depending on the complexity of the validation process. The cost of the training course varies depending on the provider and can range from $500 to $3,000 or more. After completing the training course, individuals must pass an exam administered by the International Society for Quality Assurance in Laboratory Testing (ISQA). The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and costs approximately $200.

Once certified, CLEVT professionals are expected to maintain their certification through continuing education activities such as attending seminars or workshops, taking additional courses or classes, or participating in webinars or online courses related to laboratory equipment validation. They must also renew their certification every three years by submitting proof of continuing education credits along with a renewal fee which typically ranges from $100-$150.

Overall, obtaining Certified Laboratory Equipment Validation Technician (CLEVT) certification requires completing a training course and passing an exam administered by ISQA at a cost ranging from $700 to over $3,000 depending on the provider and scope of training required.

Do You Really Need a Validation Technician Certificate?

Whether or not you need a Validation Technician Certificate really depends on what kind of job you are seeking. For example, if you are looking for a job in the medical field that requires FDA compliance and validation, then having a Validation Technician Certificate would be very beneficial. It would show potential employers that you have the necessary skills and knowledge to ensure safe and effective products.

On the other hand, if you are looking for a job in another industry where validation is not required, then having a Validation Technician Certificate may not be necessary. In these cases, it would depend on the specific skills and qualifications needed for the position.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a Validation Technician Certificate will depend on the type of job you are seeking. If it is in an area where validation is necessary, then it can be beneficial to have this certification as it will demonstrate your expertise to potential employers. If not, then your other qualifications may be enough to get the job without needing this certificate.

Related: Validation Technician Resume Examples

FAQs About Validation Technician Certifications

1. What is a Validation Technician Certification?

A Validation Technician Certification is a certification that demonstrates an individual has the knowledge and experience to perform validation activities for pharmaceutical, medical device, biopharmaceutical, and other regulated industries. It is granted by organizations such as the American Society for Quality (ASQ) or the International Society for Pharmaceutical Engineering (ISPE).

2. What are the requirements to become a Validation Technician?

In order to become a Validation Technician, you must have completed an accredited training program in good manufacturing practices (GMPs), risk management processes, and/or validation principles and techniques. You must also have experience in performing validation activities in a regulated environment.

3. How long does it take to get certified as a Validation Technician?

The amount of time it takes to become certified as a Validation Technician will vary depending on the organization providing the certification and your prior experience with validation activities. Generally, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete all of the necessary coursework and obtain your certification.

4. What are the benefits of having a Validation Technician Certification?

Having a Validation Technician Certification allows individuals to demonstrate their knowledge and expertise in performing validation activities for regulated industries such as pharmaceuticals, medical devices, biopharmaceuticals, etc. This certification can help individuals stand out from their peers when applying for jobs or promotions in these industries and may open up more opportunities for career advancement.

5. How much does it cost to get certified as a Validation Technician?

The cost of obtaining your certification as a Validation Technician will depend on which organization you choose to receive your certification from and what type of courses you need to complete in order to be eligible for certification. Costs can range anywhere from $500-$3000 USD depending on these factors.