FAQ

How long does IPC certification take?

Course length depends on which course you are taking.

Here are the lengths of the classes, including CIS (operator) and CIT (trainer):

  • IPC-A-610 CIS: 3 days for full certification; 1.5 days for recertification

  • IPC-A-610 CIT: 4 days for full (all modules) certification; 1.5 days for recertification

  • J-STD-001 CIS: 5 days 10 hrs/day  for full certification; 2 days  10hrs/day for recert

  • J-STD-001 CIT: 5 days for full (all modules) certification; 2 days for recert

  • IPC-A-620 CIS: 3 days for full certification; 1.5 days for recertification

  • IPC-A-620 CIT: 4 days for full (all modules) certification; 1.5 days for recert

  • 7711/7721 CIS: 5, 10-hour days for full certification; 2, 8-hour days for recertification

  • 7711/7721 CIT: 5, 8-hour days for full (all modules) certification; 2, 8-hour days for recertification

  • IPC-A-600 CIS: 2 - 3 days for full certification; 1 - 1.5 days for recertification

  • IPC-A-600 CIT: 3 days for full (all modules) certification; 1.5 - 2 days for recertification

How do I become an IPC trainer?

The IPC "trainer" level or CIT requires certification from a master training center like BEST. If the a student successfully completes the instruction the person will be granted a 2 year transferable certification in order to certify other technician-level (CIS) candidates.

What does "IPC" stand for?

"IPC" is the "Association Connecting Electronics Industries." This industry-based non profit provides internationally-accepted standards for the electronics and associated manufacturing industries.

How do I become re-certified as an instructor?

The IPC CIT trainer level certifications require re-certification every 2 years. This can be accomplished with a simple challenge test or a complete re-certification class. The re-certification is a "review" of the materials and is recommended to those who may not have been teaching the material very frequently or are not comfortable with their skills. A "challenge" re-certification is designed for those who instruct ALL of the time or who have been certified for many years and are VERY knowledgeable with the material.

What is the difference between Class 2 and Class 3 products? How is the training different?

Class 2 products require continued performance and extended life, with uninterrupted service being desirable but not critical. Examples of such products include computers, industrial automation equipment, and process controls. Class 3 products demand continued high performance or require performance on-demand, both being critical, with equipment downtime that cannot be tolerated. The end use environment may be uncommonly harsh and the equipment must function when required. Some examples of Class 3 products are found in life support systems, aeronautical devices, and in certain military applications.

When training at the CIS and CIT levels, IPC certification is no different for the different Classes of products. At BEST, we always welcome questions on the specific Classes of products you may be working on or training others on. BEST instructors will take extended questions on the standards offline or after class if they feel that the overall class may not benefit from such a detailed discussion on a specific class.

Why Should I get IPC certified?

When you obtain an IPC certificstion it will help associates find work in the electronics assembly and test industry as it verified several skills to the potential employer. Firstly, it rtells the employer that you understand how to use nd interpret the industry’s most widely-used specifications, methods and handbooks. Secondly it tells the potential employer thst you are able to comprehend instructions, specifications as well as know the proper terminology when speaking with colleagues, customers, vendors and management. Clear communication is good communication.

The market for electronics manufacturing services is expected to reach over $650 billion by the year 2026. As we connect more things to different networks-especially diverse “ioT” devices , the need to expand the network as well as having devices to be connected to expands the market and need for soldering , wire harness and electronics assembly technicians. With engineering salary’s on average in the electronics manufacturing space growing to over $85K/yr the IPC credentials will help to differentiate the various candidates as well.

What does certification to IPC-A-610 mean?

Operators, instructors and subject matter experts certified in the IPC-A-610 means that they are officially recognized by the IPC as having achieved a level of understanding of the contents of the specification and a level of proficiency in its use and application.

What does it mean to be “trained to the IPC-J-STD-001 standard”?

Training to the IPC-J-STD-001 document provides candidates with a working knowledge of the IPC-J-STD-001 specification. Students trained are able to utilize the document to ensure quality in their own work.

What does being certified to the IPC-J-STD-001 mean?


Students certified to the IPC-J-STD-001 means that they are officially recognized by the IPC as having achieved a level of understanding of the contents of the specification and a level of proficiency in its use and application. The candidates have passed a knowledge an skills test in achieving this certification.

What are the differences between the different levels of IPC certifications?

IPC currently provides four levels of certification to the IPC Standards for individuals working in the electronics industry. Depending on your experience within the industry, you can become certified at the highest level, a Master IPC Trainer (MIT), or at the operator/entry level as a Certified IPC Specialist (CIS). Choosing the right level of certification for you is important. Becoming certified allows individuals to provide keen insight to your company on IPC standards and how they are applied within manufacturing. The certification provides industry recognition not only to yourself but also to your company. Speaking the same language is critical to the success of companies within the electronics industry.

Master IPC Trainer (MIT)

Only full-time, part-time, or contracted employees of Licensed Training Centers can be an MIT. MITs receive their certification from the IPC Certification Program Office. The MIT credential is directly tied to a single employing Training Center unless otherwise approved by IPC.

Certified IPC Trainer (CIT)

CITs may be employees of companies that train only within their parent company. Faculty members of education and training institutions, such as technical schools or community colleges that train a variety of current and future workers. Members of a Licensed Training Center when that individual has not yet met the criteria for being an MIT. Independent consultants who work with a variety of companies. Conductors of CIS or CID training for any organization that desires such training and in accordance with the Policies and Procedures defined by IPC.

Certified Standards Expert (CSE)

The Certified Standards Expert (CSE) is a subject matter professional with a high level of knowledge and understanding of a specific IPC standard or group of standards. The role of the Certified Standards Expert may vary by organization. Learn more about the CSE program here.

Certified IPC Specialist (CIS)

CIS training and certification is appropriate for any individual that will benefit by having a consistent understanding of the criteria in a standard. Line operators, engineers, quality engineers will find this training and certification beneficial for their knowledge in the electronics industry.

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