FALLS CHURCH, Va. - Candidates seeking Irrigation Association certifications will now have more flexible and convenient testing options with today’s launch of computer-based testing.

“Available through hundreds of testing centers across North America, the new format allow candidates to select a nearby testing center and schedule a time that suits their needs,” said Wayne Eckas, chair of IA’s Certification Board. “This will eliminate the need to wait months to take an exam or travel long distances, which will also reduce the time commitment required to test.”

All certification exams are now available with the exception of the step four exams for certified irrigation designer (both agriculture and turf/landscape). These final exams are expected to be released in the following 30 days.

Scheduled to gradually replace pencil-and-paper testing, the computer-based tests will also expedite results reporting, and streamline and secure the testing process.

While IA will continue to partner with members, other associations and trade shows to offer education classes to prepare certification candidates, exams will be given at these sites only on a limited basis. The Irrigation Show will continue to offer certification testing.

The move to computer-based testing will also make the Select Certified program easier to administrate and advances its long-term goal of accreditation by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies.