Grandfathering Requirements

The SIP Program recognizes that some people have already attained the equivalent knowledge required for a specific Credential Level as a result of many years of experience in the industry, and that course attendance is not required to recognize these skills. Accordingly, the program has an initial grandfathering period where professionals can be recognized based on adequate documentation of their experience and ability, along with successful completion of the Credential Exam for each level. The exams are the same as the exams required of all non-grandfathered SIP Credential candidates.

There is a one-time grandfathering period for each level, ending as shown:

There are four requirements for grandfathering. These requirements are cumulative. You must complete each level before qualifying for the next level.

Credential Exam

Candidates for the Grandfathering provision will be allowed to take the exam for each Credential Level twice for the single fee. The first time will not be counted if it is not passed. If the candidate takes the exam more than twice, the re-testing fee will apply. If the candidate fails the exam a third time, he/she will be ineligible for the grandfathering alternative and must take the courses.

Once grandfathered for any level, individuals will be required to maintain the same Continuing Education requirements as those who have completed that Credential Level.