NCCER Tile
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ExploreAbout this exam
NCCER is a 1996-founded independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit educational foundation that describes itself as the nation's leader in construction industry education, assessments, credentials and accreditation. Its Tile craft training sits inside a broader catalog of industry-built programs delivered through accredited organizations, accredited training and assessment programs, and thousands of points of delivery, so most candidates encounter Tile as a modular apprenticeship curriculum plus a journey-level skills assessment rather than a single national paper exam. The material suits apprentices enrolled through high schools, postsecondary institutions, contractors, associations, corrections and government programs, and experienced tile setters who want their skills verified. Content spans four broad areas: craft fundamentals and safety; surface preparation and substrates; installation methods and materials; and layout, grouting and finishing. Preparation means working the modules in sequence with an instructor, practicing layout and substrate work hands-on, and confirming with your local accredited center which assessments and credentials they deliver. This page is independent study material and is not affiliated with or endorsed by NCCER; always verify current program details, fees and scheduling directly with NCCER or an accredited center.
What you'll study
About NCCER Tile preparation
Is there one national NCCER Tile exam I can just sign up for?
No single public sitting is described on NCCER's site. Tile training is delivered through accredited organizations and points of delivery, and candidates typically take module tests as they complete curriculum units, then a journey-level skills assessment. Contact an accredited center to confirm which assessments they offer and how to register.
What is the difference between a module test and a journey-level assessment?
Module tests check knowledge after each curriculum unit and are part of the training pathway. Journey-level assessments verify the skills of already-experienced craft professionals. NCCER lists both module tests and skills assessments as learner options, but the content, length and scoring of each are set by NCCER and should be confirmed with your center.
How hard is the Tile curriculum?
Difficulty tracks the level. Early modules cover safety, tools and basic materials, while later work assumes competent substrate preparation, layout math, and finishing. Candidates who never practice layout or waterproofing hands-on usually find those modules hardest. Budget regular shop time alongside reading rather than treating the modules as pure bookwork.
What if I fail a module test - can I retake it?
Retake rules are set by NCCER and your accredited training sponsor, and the public site does not publish a universal retake policy, fee or waiting period. Ask your instructor or center before you test so you know the local procedure. Do not assume a free immediate retest.
How long does the Tile program take?
NCCER does not publish a single duration for Tile on its site, and timing depends on whether you are in a high school, postsecondary or contractor program and how often you attend. Ask your sponsor for the schedule of modules and assessment dates. Many apprentices spread the levels across multiple terms while working.
In what order should I study the four content areas?
Follow the curriculum order: fundamentals and safety first, then surface preparation and substrates, then installation methods and materials, then layout, grouting and finishing. Safety and substrate knowledge underpin everything later, and layout errors are usually caused by weak substrate or materials knowledge rather than poor measuring.
What are the most common ways candidates lose points?
Typical failures are skipping safety fundamentals, rushing substrate prep, mixing materials to the wrong consistency, and starting layout without checking square and level. Grouting and finishing get rushed at the end, which shows in cleanup and joint consistency. Slow down on prep and check your layout lines before setting the first tile.
Does completing NCCER Tile training give me a certification?
NCCER issues industry-recognized credentials and certifications through its programs and accreditation system, and training completions are tracked. The specific credential you earn depends on the modules and assessments your sponsor delivers. Verify what you will receive, and how to verify it, with your center before enrolling.
Is this page affiliated with NCCER?
No. This is independent study material written for candidates searching this exam. It is not produced, reviewed or endorsed by NCCER, and it does not reproduce any official question bank. Use NCCER's own site and your accredited center as the authoritative source for program requirements, fees and scheduling.