Over one hundred thousand individuals have been nationally certified as Child Passenger Safety Technicians (CPSTs) and Instructors (CPSTIs)since the standardized curriculum and certification program began in 1997. CPS Technicians and Instructors put their knowledge to work through a variety of community based activities, including child safety seat checks where parents and caregivers receive education and hands-on assistance with the proper use of child restraint systems and safety belts.
The national standardized child passenger safety technician certification course is usually three to four days long and combines classroom instruction, hands-on work with car seats and vehicles, and a community safety seat checkup event. At the checkup event, students demonstrate skills learned during class, following event procedures and instructions, proper use and installation of child restraints and safety belts and the ability to teach parents and caregivers how to properly protect their family on the road. Successful completion of this course certifies the individual as a CPS technician for two years.
This certification is only valid for practice in the United States and its territories and on non-domestic U.S. military installations. Registration for all certification courses is $75, excluding any applicable late fees. A detailed fee table is available under Resources-FAQs then Fees.
The certification course is available in English only. All official written documentation, including correspondence with technician-candidates and certified individuals, and the Web site will continue to be in English. There are Spanish-speaking customer service representatives available to field inquiries and assist individuals in navigating the Web site.
The minimum age requirement for CPS certification is 18 at the time the course starts. Age 18 is the national age of majority; 18-year-olds are legally accountable for actions and are likely to have experience as a driver. Any individual who is under the age of 18 and attends a course will not be certified, and any certification granted under false pretenses will be immediately revoked. No refunds will be issued. Individuals under 18 will be eligible to take the course again when they are at least 18 years of age. Upon successfully completing all requirements, they will be certified.
Anyone who wants to become a CPST who will not be 18 years of age when the course starts may submit a written request using the standard Appeals Cover Page, available under Resources-FAQs then Forms.
To pass the course, you must participate in a community checkup event with families and children. If there is any reason you may be unable to meet this requirement, legal or otherwise, do not register for a course. You are not eligible to become a certified passenger safety technician. No refunds will be provided if you register but are not able to meet this requirement.