Certified Apprentice Lighting Technician™ (CALT™)

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NALMCO provides the Certified Apprentice Lighting Technician™ (CALT™) certification, a home study program designed for technicians. The CALT covers fundamental lighting terminology and operations management, serving as a prerequisite for obtaining the Certified Senior Lighting Technician™ (CSLT™) designation. Enrolling in the CALT program includes receiving the electronic training manual, "Lighten Up!", access to the CALT computer-based exam, and a three-year certification certificate. Upon enrollment, participants must take the exam within 90 days.

The CALT exam covers:

  • Introduction to Lighting
  • Incandescent Lighting
  • Fluorescent Lighting
  • High-Intensity Discharge (HID) Lighting
  • LED Lighting
  • Lighting Controls
  • Service Basics
  • Safety Codes

Preparing for the Exam

The CALT certification is designed for self-study. Certain companies provide the option of group sessions where lectures are complemented by readings and discussions. Alternatively, technicians might independently study the training manual and then convene in person to review and ready themselves for the exam. Others may choose to study and prepare entirely independently. It's advisable to inquire with your company about available training programs.

Enrolling for the Exam

Purchase the Certified Apprentice Lighting Technician™ (CALT™) program by clicking "Apply" at the top of this page.

  • $225 per person for Non-Members | $165 per person for Members (Discount code required received when renewing or joining)
  • Each technician must register individually for the exam. Candidates must create an account on nalmco.org by clicking "Create Account" at the top of the page.
  • Exam information and training manuals are sent directly to the registered technician.
  • Technicians will receive an email regarding their testing session within 24-48 business hours, including their NALMCO Identifier and secure URL for online exam access.
  • Candidates have 90 days from online registration to complete the exam. The exam is a 60-minute timed exam.
  • Final scores are provided immediately after completing the exam. A passing score is 70% or higher.
  • NALMCO Headquarters receives candidate scores approximately one week after passing, with certificates issued within two weeks.
  • Examination retakes are available for $50. Click "Apply" at the top of this page to schedule a retake.

Recertification

Every CALT must undergo recertification every three years to uphold their certification status. Notifications for recertification will be sent via email and USPS mail. The renewal fee for CALT certification is $150. Additionally, nine (9) Continuing Education Units (CEUs) are necessary for renewal. Track your CEU hours through your NALMCO profile by logging in and using the CEU Tracker tool.