NABCEP Launches New “Board Eligible Status” Program for Solar Professionals

We’re excited to share some significant news from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners (NABCEP) that makes the path to becoming a certified PV Installation Professional (PVIP) more flexible than ever before.

What’s Changing?

NABCEP has introduced a new “Board Eligible Status” program that makes it easier for aspiring PV Installation Professionals (PVIPs) to complete the certification process. This new pathway allows candidates to complete their certification requirements in a more flexible order, making it easier for professionals to progress in their solar careers before gaining the necessary field experience.

How Does the New “Board Eligible” Program Work?

The Board Eligible Status program introduces a two-step approach to achieving full PVIP certification:

Step 1: Education and Examination

• Complete 58 hours of approved classroom learning, like HeatSpring’s NABCEP PV Installation Professional (PVIP) Certification Prep bundle, and OSHA 10 
• Pass the PVIP examination
• Upon passing, receive temporary “Board Eligible” status

Step 2: Experience Requirements

• Gain the required solar experience while in a decision-making capacity on installations
• Submit a Conversion Application
• Receive your full NABCEP PVIP Certification

How the Program Works

• Exam Timeline: Candidates have 1 year (or 4 attempts) to pass the PVIP exam after completing their coursework.
• Experience Window: Board Eligible professionals have 3 years from passing the exam to complete their experience requirements.
• Associated Fees: No additional fees required when converting from Board Eligible to Board Certified status. The standard $125 application fee and the $375 exam fee will still be required when candidates submit their application to sit for the exam.
• Universal Requirements: All applicants must complete the same requirements to be fully certified, regardless of background, education, experience, or location.

Important Notes for Candidates

• Board Eligible Status applies only to the PVIP Board Certification at this time.
• Digital Badge and Professional Directory listing are awarded only after achieving full certification.
• Application fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
• Like all NABCEP Board Certifications, recertification is required every three years to maintain active status.

Why This Matters

This new program addresses a common challenge we’ve heard from our community in the solar industry: the ability to progress toward certification before gaining hands-on experience. 

By allowing professionals to complete their education and examination requirements before fulfilling their experience requirements, NABCEP is making it easier for newcomers to enter the field, demonstrate their commitment and knowledge of theory, and work towards certification.

Next Steps

Ready to start your PVIP certification journey? Here’s what you can do:

1. Review the updated NABCEP handbook if you have questions specifically about Board Eligible status.
2. Complete 58 hours of advanced training and OSHA 10.
3. Submit your application to NABCEP via Certemy along with required fees.
4. Begin your journey to certification.

Still have questions? Email us at support@heatspring.com and we’ll be happy to help!