Demonstrate a basic understanding and ability to apply NFPA 70E®, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace® requirements. Created to help mitigate hazards to personnel exposed to electrical risks on the job, this internationally recognized certification promotes professional development and provides evidence of competence in safeguarding work environments where electrical dangers are present.
Designed for electrical workers, HVAC technicians, solar and wind generator installer/maintainers, facilities management and maintenance personnel, and other skilled workers who are exposed to electrical hazards, CEST highlights an individual’s knowledge of and ability to apply the information found in NFPA 70E.
The goals of this program are to:
Announcements
NFPA is currently transitioning to a new Certification Management System to offer you an improved user experience and even greater control over your personal certification journey. Currently, only new applications and retest applications are being processed on this system. We have a separate interim process for recertifications. We apologize for any inconvenience. Updates will be posted here, so check back frequently. Thank you for your patience during this change.
How to apply
- Download the candidate handbook (PDF), familiarize yourself with the program, and determine if you are eligible
- Ensure you are signed in to your NFPA.org profile. If you are not, you will not be able to access the application portal.
- Enter the application portal via the Apply now button below
- Once in the application portal, follow the prompts to complete the application, upload any required documentation, and pay.
- Upon completion of your application and processing of your payment, you will receive an email with your eligibility number, and instructions on how to schedule your exam.
How to retest
If you originally applied before 5/16/22, click the “retest” button below, and follow the directions on the downloadable PDF. If you originally applied on or after 5/18/22, sign in to your nfpa.org profile and complete the retest application in the new certification management system.
How to recertify
Download the 3-year recertification form (PDF), and follow the instructions.
Program fees
- Initial Application/exam - $399
- Retest Exam – $199
- Recertification - $180
Program benefits
- Recognition as proficient in NFPA 70E practices and concepts
- Internationally recognized Certification by NFPA
- CEST certificate
Exam information
NFPA exams are available at hundreds of Prometric brick and mortar test centers around the world or in a remotely proctored environment that you can access on a personal or work computer through Prometric’s ProProctor application. To locate a test center near you, or for details on the remote proctored testing option visit www.prometric.com/nfpacert.
The CEST certification exam is a three hour, open-book, multiple-choice exam based on the 2021 Edition of NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace.
IMPORTANT NOTE REGARDING DESIGNATION AS A QUALIFIED PERSON
Per NFPA 70E Section 110.6, designation as a Qualified Person involves factors such as training on equipment and work methods that can be specific to a work site, job function, or employer. Therefore, earning the CEST credential alone does not make the certificant a Qualified Person. It is the responsibility of an employer or governmental agency having jurisdiction to outline the specific requirements necessary to become a Qualified Person for any given job or site. Employers and others may include this certification as one part of the requirements to become a Qualified Person.
Reference materials
The exam is based on the 2021 edition of NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace. It is the candidate’s responsibility to obtain this reference source for study purposes and to have present during the examination. It is the only reference source allowed in the examination room. If you would like to purchase this document, please go to the online catalog.
Contact CEST
NFPA Admin & Support Services
11 Tracy Drive
Avon, MA. 02322
adminsvcs@nfpa.org