How to Become Certified | How to Recertify | Frequently Asked Questions |List of Current Certificat Holders
SWANA Certification is recognized by numerous states as the standard for solid waste employees. Being SWANA Certified enhances your resume and distinguishes you as a leader in your profession.
Certification empowers you with the latest information, creates networking opportunities with fellow professionals, and identifies you as an asset to the industry.
The following certifications disciplines are offered:
SWANA Offers Three (3) Different Levels of Certification:
Certified Manager
- High School Diploma or GED
- At least five years experience in MSW Managment
(4-year degree in a related field can substitute for up to two years)
- Minimum of two years experience in management / supervisory position with direct responsibility for daily operations related to the discipline that you are seeking certification in
- Available for ALL Disciplines
Certified Technical Associate
- Involvement in the planning, design, implementation, operation or promotion related to the discipline, but does not fit into other certification categories (consultants, planners, vendors, engineers)
- Available for ALL Disciplines
Certified Inspector
- Available ONLY for Landfill and Construction and Demolitin Certifications
- High School Diploma or GED
- Minimum of two years experience as a MSW Landfill Inspector
- Able to issue official citations which require actions or impose penalties
Becoming Certified - Initial Certification
In order to become SWANA Certified, you must register to take the Certification Exam at any of our Training Centers, Symposia, Conferences, or local Chapter Events. For a list of upcoming events, please click here.
Remember, you can sign up for ANY Certification Exam, regardless of whether or not the course is being offered. Exams are offered at most SWANA Symposia, Training Centers, and of course WASTECON. Click here for Exam times and locations.
You must score a minimum of 70% on the exam in order to obtain your certification. Currently, SWANA offers Certification Exams for each of the eight disciplines. Applications for certification will be issued on the day of the exam and the "supervisor's signature" has been replaced by the "code of ethics" page.
Staying Certified - Recertification Process
Simply follow these three (3) easy steps:
1. Obtain 30 Continuing Education Units (CEU's) within a three year period
or
Retake the Certification Exam that you are certified in and score at least a 70%
2. Complete the one-page Recertification Application
3. Submit the Recertification Fee via check, credit card, or PO
You can fax your application to Attn: Certification Coordinator at fax number (301)589-7068, or you can mail your application to: SWANA, c/o Certification Coordinator, 1100 Wayne Avenue, Suite 700, Silver Spring, MD 20910.
Recertification is offered after attaining 30 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) in a three-year period. Earn CEUs by attending one of SWANA's many training centers. For more information on SWANA events that might offer CEUs, see these Upcoming Events.
FAQ's - Frequently Asked Questions
Does the SWANA Certification Program have a grace period? If so, what is it?
Yes, SWANA currently allows a 2 month grace period on all certifications. For a period of 2 months after their certification has expired the individual will have the ability to become recertified without penalties, provided they have acquired all 30 CEUs.
How can I get an extension for recertification?
If you are unable to obtain your 30 CEUs within the three year time period, you must submit the Request for an Extension Application. You must indicate which event you plan to attend to finish aquiring your CEUs. If you would like to earn CEUs online, simply visit the http://www.swanastore.com/ for Online Training Options. Individuals may fax the request to 301-589-7068 or mail to SWANA, c/o Certification Coordinator, 1100 Wayne Avenue, Suite 700, Silver Spring, MD 20910. Extensions are granted on a case by case basis and will not exceed a maximum of six (6) months.
How much does it cost to take a SWANA certification exam?
The current fee for taking a certification exam is US $150.00 for SWANA Members and US $275.00 for Non-members.
Do I have to pay for recertification?
Yes, the current fee for recertification is US $175.00.
I need an application. How do I get one?
You can obtain an Application in any of the following ways:
- Call 1-800-GO SWANA and request one be faxed or mailed to you
- Email SWANA at cert@swana.org to request an application and one will be emailed to you
- Or download it here
What is a SWANA CEU?
A SWANA CEU stands for Continuing Education Unit. To become recertified you need to receive 30 SWANA CEUs in 3 years, starting with the date of your certification. These are the hours individuals receive for attending training courses, events, conferences, etc. All SWANA CEU hours must be pre-approved by the SWANA Certification Coordinator prior to the event.
How many SWANA CEUs can I earn from non-SWANA related courses?
Hours are determined by the Certification Coordinator – usually on an hour for hour basis if the materials relate directly to a specific discipline. Individuals seeking to receive credit for non-SWANA courses must submit an agenda prior to the event and the Certification Coordinator will provide the individual with a CEU form. You can fax a copy of the agenda to: Attn: Certification Coordinator at fax (301)589-7068.
Do CEUs carry over from year to year?
Yes, during the 3 years prior to recertification. Once your recertification has been processed, the CEUs earned during the prior recertification years do not carry over.
I registered for WASTECON and paid my recertification fee. Why must I complete an application?
Each time you apply for recertification you are required to complete the recertification application in order to ensure that your SWANA records are current and accurate.
Your website has a list of certified people and I don’t see my name. What should I do?
If you do not see your name on the list of certified individuals, you should contact the Certification Coordinator at 1-800-GO-SWANA (467-9262) or via email at cert@swana.org.