Why ISA certification?
The arboricultural profession has developed significantly over the past decade, and significant knowledge is now required to practice and perform to the highest standards of professionalism. ISA arborist certification helps consumers identify competent, qualified tree care professionals.
Undertaking the process to obtain arborist certification is a personal choice. Certification demonstrates that a professional possesses the appropriate knowledge, and by the same token that he or she is dedicated to his or her profession and community. ISA-certified arborists understand the importance of continuing education and how it contributes to making the world a better place, one tree at a time.
If you'd like to register for the exam, see “ Become Certified ” for registration procedures.
The value of certification
ISA Arborist Certification is a globally recognized certification program that lets consumers know that a professional has a high degree of knowledge about tree care and maintenance.
The Arborist Certification Exam has been prepared by a panel of experts from all areas of arboriculture in the U.S. and Canada. Questions are constantly analyzed by the ISA Certification Committee, using the latest statistical techniques. These experts carry out a complete analysis of the task in hand, then prepare an examination that encompasses the defined competencies. The resulting study, training and knowledge shape the expert and reflect the professional skills sought by leaders in the public and private sectors, including universities and government agencies.
Certification requirements, accumulation of continuing education credits and renewal
In order to raise the level of knowledge and standards of practice within the arboricultural profession, ISA certification holders must meet requirements to maintain their certification status.
In order to renew their title (valid for three years), ISA arboriculturist certification holders must continue their apprenticeship by taking courses enabling them to accumulate continuing education credits (CFC). A certified arborist must therefore accumulate at least 30 continuing education credits (CFC) during this three-year period to be eligible for renewal. 1 CFC is equivalent to 1 hour of continuing education.
ISA awards CE credits for events that have structured, measurable learning objectives and are directly related to the fields of arboriculture and urban forestry. Workshops, conferences, webinars, e-learning modules, podcasts or quizzes, safety training and meetings are regularly approved and offered to earn CFCs.
As certification nears expiry, holders will receive a renewal notice by e-mail. Certification is not automatically renewed. To be eligible for renewal, the holder must have accumulated 30 CFCs and must pay the renewal fee.
About certification
Who can apply for arboricultural certification?
Anyone with a minimum of 3 consecutive years' experience (36 months) in arboriculture (or a related field). Workers must be able to submit proof of their experience with their application.
Note: Individuals who have not accumulated 36 months' experience, but who have college or university-level training in arboriculture (or a related field), may be granted recognition of experience. A file review is required. The ISA Certification Committee decides on the equivalence of experience attributed to training courses.
How to obtain certification?
To obtain ISA Arborist certification, a candidate must pass a 200-question multiple-choice written exam on arboriculture. The pass mark is 76% (pass mark subject to change without notice, please refer to the Candidate Guide).
How to register for the exam?
The participant must complete the electronic form and send it with all supporting documents. The Certification Committee will determine if the participant is eligible. See “The certification exam” for details.