NAEC CAT study plan
NAEC CAT · Give each week a clear focus.
8 weeks · About 6 hours per week
Certification Programs (CET, CAT, QEI)
Map the full NAEC certification landscape by listing each credential (CET, CAT, QEI) with its issuing body, purpose, and target audience
Identify the eligibility requirements (experience, education, references) for each credential and compare them side by side
Outline the exam structure, content areas, and question formats for each credential using publicly available NAEC materials
Create a personal eligibility gap analysis showing which credentials you currently qualify for and what remains
Your checkpoint
A one-page comparison table of CET, CAT, and QEI covering purpose, eligibility, exam format, and renewal requirements, plus a personal eligibility checklist.
Certification Programs (CET, CAT, QEI)
Explain the difference between certification, licensure, and accreditation as they apply to elevator and accessibility equipment professionals
Describe the CET certification pathway: prerequisites, application steps, exam domains, and recertification cycle
Describe the CAT certification pathway: prerequisites, application steps, exam domains, and recertification cycle
Describe the QEI certification pathway: prerequisites, application steps, exam domains, and recertification cycle
Your checkpoint
A 500-word written summary comparing the three certification pathways, including at least five specific differences and two similarities.
Certification Programs (CET, CAT, QEI)
Define the code and standard bodies relevant to each certification (ASME A17.1, A17.2, A17.3, A18.1, etc.) and state which exams test which documents
List the inspection and maintenance tasks that each certification authorizes a holder to perform
Identify the ethical and professional conduct requirements embedded in each certification program
Summarize the consequences of certification lapse, revocation, or disciplinary action for each credential
Your checkpoint
A reference sheet mapping each credential to its governing codes, authorized tasks, and code-of-conduct obligations.
Certification Programs (CET, CAT, QEI)
Complete a full-length practice exam for your primary target credential under timed conditions
Score the practice exam by domain and identify the three weakest content areas
Review every missed question and write a corrected explanation for each
Build a prioritized study list for weeks 5-6 based on the score breakdown
Your checkpoint
A scored practice exam report with domain-level percentages and a ranked list of weak areas with corrective notes.
Certification Programs (CET, CAT, QEI)
Drill the weakest content area from week 4 using focused review of the relevant code sections
Drill the second-weakest content area using scenario-based practice questions
Create flashcards for at least 40 code clauses, definitions, or inspection criteria that appear across the three credentials
Explain aloud, without notes, how the three certifications differ in scope and why a professional might hold more than one
Your checkpoint
A flashcard deck of 40+ items and a recorded or written five-minute explanation of certification scope differences.
Certification Programs (CET, CAT, QEI)
Complete a second full-length practice exam for your primary target credential and compare scores to week 4
Complete a shorter practice set for a secondary credential (CET or CAT) to test cross-credential knowledge
Review all new missed questions and update the flashcard deck
Practice the application process by drafting a complete sample application for your target credential
Your checkpoint
A second scored practice exam with a week-over-week improvement summary and a completed draft application.
Certification Programs (CET, CAT, QEI)
Review recertification and continuing education requirements for each credential and plan a 3-year CE cycle
Rehearse exam-day logistics: registration, identification, testing center rules, and timing strategy
Take a final timed mini-exam of 50 questions drawn from all content areas and score 80% or higher
Identify and resolve any remaining eligibility or documentation gaps before applying
Your checkpoint
A completed 3-year continuing education plan and a mini-exam score report showing 80% or higher.
Certification Programs (CET, CAT, QEI)
Complete a final full-length practice exam and achieve a score at or above the passing threshold
Review the flashcard deck in full and retire cards answered correctly three times
Write a one-page exam-day checklist covering documents, arrival time, and pacing rules
Submit or schedule the actual certification application or exam appointment
Your checkpoint
A final practice exam score at or above passing, a completed exam-day checklist, and proof of application submission or scheduled exam date.
Milestones
Week 4: You have completed one full-length timed practice exam, scored it by domain, and can name your three weakest content areas with specific corrective actions for each.
Week 6: Your second practice exam score has improved over week 4, and you have a completed draft application for your target credential.
Week 8: You have scored at or above the passing threshold on a final full-length practice exam, hold a 3-year CE plan, and have submitted your application or scheduled your exam.