What’s the Difference Between the NABCEP PV Installation Professional and Installer Specialist Certifications?

Navigating the world of NABCEP certifications can be daunting for solar professionals, especially when faced with seemingly similar options. Many in our community have expressed confusion about the various certifications available, with the comparison between the NABCEP PV Installation Professional (PVIP) and PV Installer Specialist (PVIS) being particularly confusing. 

To help you make an informed decision, let’s break down the key differences between these two PV installation certifications. By the end of this article, you’ll have a clear understanding of which certification aligns best with your career goals and experience level in the industry.

Exam Content

Certification exams are built on a foundation known as the Job Task Analysis (JTA). A JTA is a comprehensive document that identifies the specific tasks, knowledge, skills, and abilities essential for effective job performance in a particular role.

The primary distinction between the PVIP and PVIS certifications lies in the scope of content covered in their respective exams and we can see that reflected in their JTAs.

The PVIP certification covers broader, more comprehensive content compared to the PVIS. In fact, the PVIP exam encompasses content from all three specialist exams – the PV Design Specialist (PVDS), the PV Installer Specialist (PVIS), and the PV Commissioning and Maintenance Specialist (PVCMS). In contrast, the PVIS certification focuses specifically on content related to PV installation.

To better understand these differences, let’s take a look at the high-level domains of the PVIP JTA and compare them to those of the PVIS JTA.

As you can see, the PVIP covers significantly more content than the PVIS. Here’s another way to visualize the relationship between the PVIP and the specialists exams.

Training Requirements 

Another distinction is the amount of advanced training required to sit for the exams. Being more comprehensive, the PVIP requires 58 hours of advanced training, while the more narrowly focused PVIS requires 24 hours of advanced training. 

HeatSpring offers training options tailored to both. You can learn more about the NABCEP PV Installation Professional Certification Prep bundle here and the NABCEP PV Installer Specialist (PVIS) Certification Prep bundle here. 

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Other Eligibility Requirements

The other eligibility requirements remain the same. Both the PVIP and PVIS require that candidates have their OSHA 10 as well as documented experience being in a decision-making role on installations that equal at least 6 Project Credits. 

Project Credits are allocated depending on the size of the PV system installed. 

• 1-999 kW = 2 Project Credits
• 1 MW+ = 3 Project Credits

Exam Details

Both the PVIP and PVIS application and exam fees total $500. Both exams are 4 hours long and include 70 multiple choice questions. Both exams have a passing score of 70. 

When you achieve a passing score for either exam, you are considered NABCEP Board Certified!  

Choosing Between PVIP and PVIS: Which Should You Choose?

The PVIP certification is widely regarded as the “gold standard” in the solar industry, offering a comprehensive assessment of solar expertise. Its broad scope makes it more challenging, but also more prestigious than the PVIS. Here’s how to decide which is right for you:

Consider the PVIP if:

• You aim to demonstrate mastery across multiple solar disciplines
• Your career goals include leadership or multi-faceted roles in solar
• You have broad experience and are willing to invest in more extensive preparation

The PVIS might be more suitable if:

• Your current or desired role focuses specifically on PV installation
• You’re looking to validate your installation skills without the broader scope
• You prefer a more targeted certification

Both certifications are valuable. The best choice ultimately depends on your experience level, career aspirations, and the time you can dedicate to preparation.

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