Credential of Learning Achievement FAQ's
A Credential of Learning Achievement (CLA) is issued by the International Code Council to those individuals who complete a training program on a specific subject and pass an assessment (examination) based on such training program.
An ICC Credential of Learning Achievement is awarded after completion of an ICC designated training program on a specific subject and passing an assessment (typically an examination) based on the training. It is a method of achieving a credential which has value including education and assessment. Professional Certifications certify a professional or occupational competency based on an examination developed by the ICC Exam Development Committee based on a job task analysis. An ICC Credential of Learning Achievement distinguishes an individual as being committed to professional development on important areas of building safety.
Yes and No. ICC does not have legal authority to mandate the CLA. ICC credentials however are often mandated by entities and jurisdictions for hiring, continued employment or promotion.
Yes. The When Disaster Strikes Institute is a training element required by FEMA for individuals to be able to be deployed, but FEMA and other local jurisdictions might also have additional requirements, such as licensing or ICC professional certifications, for actively deploying individuals for damage assessment. Individuals who complete this training element however, will now be able to take another step by passing the related assessment and obtain an important ICC credential and its related digital badge.
The length of training depends on the subject matter and the complexity of the topic. Currently the CLAs have training components that range from 2 to 12 hours in total.
Training may be in different formats such as in-person, online or self-paced. The same topic may be offered in multiple formats to accommodate learning styles.
Each CLA has 30 exam questions and there is no time limit to finish the exam.
All CLA assessments are online, self-paced and available 24/7 from any location with an internet connection.
The assessment is in the form of an online examination.
The fees vary based on the Credential of Learning Achievement.
Most CLA's require a 75% to pass, but the Firestopping CLA requires an 80%.
In most cases there will not be any required publications and resources, but there will be codes, standards and other publications or resources that will be helpful as a supplement to the training activity. Each CLA description will identify such resources that may be beneficial.
All CLA assessments will be open book.
Yes, the exam must be taken within 365 days after the exam or training/exam bundle purchase date. Since the assessment is based on the completed training, it is always most effective if the assessment is taken soon after the training activity while the information retained is still fresh.
Yes. There will be flexible options for purchasing the training and assessment as a bundle or separately. However, even if the bundle was purchased, the training must be completed prior to taking the assessment.
This will depend on the specific CLA. Since the CLAs are on specific subjects, in many cases general knowledge and experience in some aspects of building safety industry will be needed. For certain CLAs, credit will be given to previous credentials and less training may be required if the previous credentials are related to the CLA subject.
You will be able to take the test as many times as necessary to achieve a passing score.
Yes, all CLAs are required to be renewed to be considered active. Renewal is required every three years from the date of CLA issuance. Renewal depends on the CLA - as you may need to complete additional training and/or take a short quiz upon expiration.
Your results will display immediately. If you have passed the exam, you will gain access to your Certificate of Completion and badge. If you did not pass the exam, retake the exam until you pass.
Upon completion of the program you will be able to download the Certificate of Completion through you myICC or learn.iccsafe.org within 24 hours of completing the test.
ICC is also issuing digital badges to showcase the credibility and proof of your accomplishment in a digitally shareable format.
Yes. Go here and in the "Certification Type" select the CLA you would like to explore and any other search criteria you have, then click Search.
No, an individual can participate in as many CLAs as they wish. There is no limit on the number of active CLAs held by an individual.