Why Obtain the ISA Certification
The profession of arborist has greatly developed over the last decade, and significant knowledge is now necessary to practice this profession and perform according to the highest standards of professionalism. The certification for arborists from the ISA helps consumers identify competent and qualified professionals in tree care.
Undertaking the process to obtain arborist certification is a personal choice. 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 analyzed 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 exam 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 practice standards within the arborist profession, ISA certification holders must meet requirements to maintain their certification status.
To renew their title (valid for three years), holders of the ISA Certified Arborist certification must continue their education by undergoing training that allows them to accumulate Continuing Education Credits (CEUs). A certified arborist must therefore accumulate at least 30 CEUs during this three-year period in order to be eligible for renewal. 1 CEU is equivalent to 1 hour of continuing education.
The ISA grants CEUs 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 for the accumulation of CEUs.
As the certification expiration approaches, 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 CEUs in their record and must pay the renewal fees.
About the Certification
Who can apply for arborist certification?
Anyone with a minimum of 3 consecutive years of experience (36 months) in arboriculture (or a related field). The worker must be able to provide 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 receive recognition for their experience. A review of the file is necessary. The ISA certification committee decides on the equivalence in experience attributed to educational programs.
How to obtain certification?
To obtain the ISA arborist certification, a candidate must take a written exam consisting of 200 multiple-choice questions on arboriculture. The passing grade is 76% (passing grade 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 the supporting documents. The certification committee will determine if the participant is eligible. See details in the section “The Certification Exam”