NFPA Credentials

The NFPA Certified Electrical Safety Technician (CEST) is an electrical safety credential for skilled workers who are exposed to electrical hazards in the course of their job duties. Ideal candidates are HVAC technicians, solar installers and technicians, and facilities management and maintenance personnel who work on or around dangerous electrical equipment.

Completion of the credential highlights an individual’s knowledge of and ability to apply the principles found in the NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace.

Electricians and Electrical Testing Technicians are also eligible but may wish to look into the NFPA Certified Electrical Safety Worker (CESW) certification, as it is more technically rigorous and demonstrates a higher level of proficiency.

A candidate for the CEST certification must have the following qualifications:

• A high school diploma or equivalent
• 6 hours of training on NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace within the past 2 years

Candidates will be able to take the exam after their application to NFPA has been approved and the testing fees have been paid.

The CEST Exam is a 3-hour, 110 multiple-choice question exam. The exam is open-book so candidates can bring a copy of the 2021 NFPA 70E, Standard for Electrical Safety in the Workplace to their exam. The exam is available in a computer-based format at test centers throughout the world.

To keep certifications active, they must recertify every 3 years. CEST certification holders are required to demonstrate their continuing participation in professional development activities. NFPA awards points for different activities.

Ten points of professional development activities related to fire and life safety must be earned and submitted during the recertification cycle. Certification holders must complete the Summary of Recertification Points Form and submit to NFPA.