Why Obtain the ISA Certification
The profession of an arborist has significantly developed over the past decade, and substantial knowledge is now required to practice this profession and perform according to the highest standards of professionalism. The ISA arborist certification helps consumers identify competent and qualified professionals in tree care.
Undertaking the process to obtain arborist certification is a personal choice. The certification demonstrates that a professional possesses the appropriate knowledge, and thus shows a great interest in their profession and community. ISA certified arborists understand the importance of continuing education and how it contributes to making the world better, one tree at a time.
Want to register for the exam, see the section “The Certification Exam” for registration procedures.
The Value of ISA Certified Arborist Certification
The ISA Certified Arborist certification is a globally recognized certification program that allows consumers to know that a professional possesses a high degree of knowledge regarding the care and maintenance of trees.
The Certified Arborist examination was prepared by a group of experts from all fields of arboriculture in the United States and Canada. The questions are constantly reviewed by the ISA Certification Committee, which uses the latest statistical techniques. These experts conduct a thorough analysis of the tasks to be accomplished, then prepare an examination that encompasses the defined competencies. The study, training, and knowledge derived from it form the expert and reflect the professional skills sought by leaders in both public and private sectors, including universities and government agencies.
Certification Requirements, Accumulation of Continuing Education Credits, and Renewal
In order to improve the level of knowledge and standards of practice within the arborist profession, holders of ISA certification must meet requirements to maintain their certification status.
To renew their title (valid for three years), ISA Certified Arborist holders must continue their learning by undergoing training that allows them to accumulate continuing education credits (CECs). A certified arborist must therefore accumulate at least 30 continuing education credits (CECs) during this three-year period to be eligible for renewal. 1 CEC is equivalent to 1 hour of continuing education.
The ISA awards CECs for events that have structured and measurable learning objectives and that directly relate to the fields of arboriculture and urban forestry. Workshops, conferences, webinars, online learning modules, podcasts or quizzes, training, and safety meetings are regularly approved and offered to allow the accumulation of CECs.
As the certification nears expiration, holders will receive a renewal notice by email. The certification does not renew automatically. To be eligible for renewal, the holder must have accumulated 30 CECs in their record and must pay the renewal fees.
About the Certification
Who can apply for the arborist certification?
Any person with a minimum of 3 consecutive years of experience (36 months) in arboriculture (or a related field). The worker must be able to submit proof of their experience with their application.
Note: An individual who has not accumulated 36 months of experience but holds a college or university degree in arboriculture (or a related field) may obtain recognition of experience. A review of the file is necessary. The ISA certification committee decides the equivalence in experience attributed to education.
How to obtain the certification?
To obtain the ISA arborist certification, a candidate must take a written exam of 200 multiple-choice questions on arboriculture. The passing score is 76% (passing score subject to change without notice, refer to the candidate guide).
How to register for the exam?
The participant must complete the electronic form and submit it with all supporting documents. The certification committee will determine if the participant is eligible. See details in the section “The certification exam”