What is Certification?

• A. The action or process of providing someone with an official document attesting to a status or level of achievement by a non-governmental organization.
• B. The action or process of registering or being registered.
• C. The granting or regulation of licenses, as for professionals; a governmental agency grants permission to an individual to engage in a given occupation upon finding the applicant has attained the minimal degree of competency necessary.
• D. The renewal or maintenance of a professional credential.

Answer: (A)

Certification is the process of awarding an official document by a non-governmental organization that proves a person has demonstrated a defined level of knowledge or skill in a particular area. It is usually voluntary and often requires meeting standards through exams, demonstrated experience, and ongoing education. This credential signals competence within the field and is recognized by employers and professional communities.

This differs from registration, which is simply being listed in a registry or database and does not by itself attest to competence. It also differs from licensing, which is granted by a government authority and gives legal permission to practice a profession, typically tied to mandatory minimum competency and legal authority to work. Finally, renewal or maintenance refers to keeping a credential active through recertification or ongoing requirements to show continued competence. In summary, certification is a voluntary, externally awarded credential from a non-governmental body confirming specific expertise.