Academy Certification Exams (ACE) offers a Level II Direct certification pathway for experienced industry professionals who already meet the qualifications for Level II certification but have not previously obtained a Level I certification.
The Level II Direct pathway was developed to provide an option for individuals who have already gained significant field experience and training in the inspection, testing, and maintenance of water-based fire protection systems.
This pathway may be beneficial for:
Experienced inspectors transitioning into certification
Industry professionals with substantial field experience
Individuals who previously delayed certification but already meet Level II qualifications
Inspectors seeking a nationally recognized certification pathway without first testing for Level I
To qualify for the ACE Level II Direct pathway, candidates must meet the same work experience and training requirements required for standard Level II certification.
Current requirements include:
A minimum of 2,000 hours of documented inspection, testing, and maintenance-related work experience
A minimum of 32 hours of qualifying training completed within the previous 24 months
Training must include at least 24 hours directly related to NFPA standards or inspection, testing, and maintenance activities
ACE developed the Level II Direct option to better align certification opportunities with the realities of today’s workforce while maintaining established qualification standards.
Like all ACE certifications, the Level II Direct certification is designed around practical, real-world inspection and testing practices under NFPA 25 and related industry standards.
Additional information regarding eligibility requirements, documentation requirements, and upcoming exam dates can be found at Academy Certification Exams.