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Certification Questions
Recertification Questions
Membership Questions
General Questions


   

-Is the test included in the price of training?
Yes, the cost of the training includes: a training manual, the training itself, the test, and the certification materials you receive upon passing.

-What is the minimum score on the exam needed to pass?
To pass, you must score an 85% or better on the exam.

-How do I find training near my location?
To find a training site near you click on the tab labeled "Certification" and browse our current schedule.

-What if I cannot find a class in my area?
If you do not see a class in your area, please keep in mind that the schedule is not final; it is updated frequently so you might have to wait a short period before finding a class in your area.  In some instances, travel will be required.
Click here for a list of regional trainers.

-Will I get my certification number at the end of the class?
No.  The tests will first be sent to our offices where SBCA staff will grade and assign certification numbers.  Once this is done you can access your certification number and certificate online by clicking on the link below "NSTP Online Results" located on the NSTP HOME tab.  You will need your test number.  If you do not have your test number fax a copy of your driver's license to 202-349-3621 or email a copy to browan@sbca.org.

-Does my certification expire?
Yes, certifications are valid for two years from the month the test was taken.

-What happens if I fail the test?
You are entitled to one retake at no charge.

-Can I take the class again?
The free retake is good for the test only, you may be charged an additional price for the class should you decide to take it again.

-What happens if I fail my retake?
If you fail your retake, you will have to attend the training again at the initial price.

-Is my certification number the same as my member number?
No.  When you are certified, that does not mean that you are a member of the SBCA.  SBCA member numbers are assigned to those that pay annual dues.


-My certification is about to expire, how do I get recertified?
Recertification is an online process; you do not have to attend a class again.  Click on the tab labeled "Recertification" to find out more on the recertification process.

-Do I need to know my SBCA certification number to recertify?
Your certification number will not be necessary for the recertification process.  Once your order has been placed the SBCA will verify your information and certification status.

-I have a certification for MDU/SMATV Essentials, do I have to renew my Satellite Fundamentals certification number?
No, once you have obtained MDU/SMATV Essentials certification, you only have to keep that number current.  It would be the same for MFH2 Technology certification.  You need only keep current the highest level of certification.


-Who qualifies as a member of SBCA?
Members of SBCA pay annual dues to the association and the benefits extend to all
direct, full-time employees of that company.  Independent contractors who do business with member companies do not fall under the umbrella of membership.

-How do I become a member of the SBCA?
Applications for membership can be found HERE.


-I have been installing for years, can't I just take the test?
The members of the industry have determined that due to the significant amount of information being provided in the certification courses they must be given in a class room setting.

-How many certification levels are there and what are they?
There are currently the Satellite Fundamentals Course (formerly Residential), MDU/SMATV Essentials (formerly Commercial), and NAS MFH Technology

-I have an FSS 1&2 certification, is that the same as the SBCA certification?
No. Field Service Specialist (FSS) is an Echostar certification and deals with DISH Network exclusively, and does not address industry wide issues. 

-Do I have to take the Satellite Fundamentals Course before taking the MDU/SMATV Essentials Course?
Yes, residential certification is a prerequisite to taking the Commercial Course.

-Do the platform providers track my certification number?
Yes, the platform providers and installation firms have the ability to verify a technicians' certification.

- Does the SBCA provide a list of certified installers?
No. We do not provide or distribute a list of those who are certified to anyone.  Your contact information and affiliation are confidential. 

-If I am certified, can anyone else use my certification number?
No.  Your certification number should be kept secure.  Giving your number out for others to use is grounds for revocation of certification.  SBCA certifies only the individual who attended the class and passed the examination.

-I need to get my certification number, how do I go about doing that?
If someone needs their certification number, for security purposes, they must  fax or email a copy of their  driver’s license or photo ID to 202-349-3621 or browan@sbca.org
The SBCA does not use or keep track of Social Security Numbers nor will it be asked as a means for verification.

-Can I get all of my certification materials reprinted and sent to me?
Should you need your materials reprinted for any reason, there is a $20 reprinting charge.  Click HERE to request materials be reprinted. 

-How can I become an SBCA certified trainer?
The SBCA is currently not taking applications for trainers.

-Are there Spanish training materials available?
Yes.  We do have training materials and the Residential exam translated in to Spanish.  Please make your trainer aware of your need for these materials when signing up for the class.

-Does the SBCA offer C-Band, DIRECWAY,  Starband, or WildBlue training?
No.  Our course does not focus on C-Band or broadband.  You will have to contact those companies regarding their specific training.

-I just ordered a manual from the online store, how long does it take to receive it?
Typically manual orders are processed within 24 business hours upon receipt and shipped via FedEx 3 day standard delivery.