Recertification
Is recertification required for certification?
Yes, CCO requires recertification every five years (most programs) to ensure knowledge has been retained and to accommodate technical changes in equipment, technology, standards, and federal laws. Although recertification requirements vary slightly between programs, generally to be recertified a candidate must:
- Pass a written examination (all programs except Signalperson, which requires a practical exam but no written exam to recertify.
- Continue to comply with the Code of Ethics
- Continue to comply with CCO’s substance abuse policy
Some programs require that the certificant have a certain number of hours of documented experience during the certification period to avoid taking practical or initial exams. Please see the Candidate Handbook for the specific certification for more details on those hours and requirements if those hours have not been obtained.
How do I provide proof of hours for recertification?
Upon registering for the exam, you will sign an Attestation Statement on your recertification application, indicating that you have the required hours of related experience during your certification period; if hours have not been obtained you will check the appropriate box on the application. You are not required to submit documented paperwork to CCO.
What is the recertification application process?
Recertification may be completed via paper/pencil testing (PPT) or computer-based testing (CBT). Identify a Test Date and Location convenient for you, contact the Test Site Coordinator for that facility to make arrangements, and then apply for the applicable exams online using PPT application or the CBT application.
Do I need to submit a new photo?
If the photo on your original card meets current requirements (full face, no hats or dark glasses), a new photo is not required. If you wish to have a new photo on your card, you may email it to photos@nccco.org (be sure to include your full name and certification number).
Are there any reference materials to help study for recertification?
You will find a list of reference materials as well as comprehensive exam outlines on each certification program’s written exam page.
When does my certification expire?
Your certification’s expiration date appears on the front side of your certification card, below your designations. If you have lost your card, you may use the myCCO portal at my.ccocert.org to check your certification status. You can also contact CCO to check on your certification’s expiration date or use the Verify CCO Online system.
I am running out of time to recertify. Can I ask for more time?
Candidates must successfully complete the required recertification exam(s) during the 12 months before their certification expires. There is no “grace period” after the date of expiration. Candidates whose certification has lapsed must take the initial written and practical examinations (if required for initial certification) over again in order to be certified.
Do you offer computer-based testing (CBT) for recertification?
Computer-based testing (CBT) is currently available for all CCO programs requiring a written exams. Signalpersons must take a practical exam to recertify. Search for test dates and locations.
If I do not pass my exams, am I allowed to test again?
Yes. However, candidates who do not pass a written exam and need to retake the same exam in order to certify or recertify, must wait four (4) weeks to retake the same exam.
I failed my written exam required for recertification and my certification expires before I’m permitted to retest, what should I do?
Certificants who fail a written exam required for recertification and whose expiration date does not permit them to wait four (4) weeks to retest will be required to take the applicable written and practical exams to be certified again.
How do I add another certification?
You may take initial exams for other programs in the same sitting as your written exams for recertification at any of the Test Dates and Locations or via computer-based testing (CBT).
What’s on the written exam(s) required for recertification?
The written exams required for recertification are identical to the written exams required for initial certification.
How soon before my certification expires can I recertify?
You may take examinations for recertification up to one year prior to your certification’s expiration date. As long as you test within that one-year period, your new five-year certification period begins from your certification’s original expiration date. Candidates who recertify more than 12 months prior to their certification’s expiration date will begin their new certification period immediately, not from the end of their current certification period.
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