IFPS Membership vs. Certification FAQs

Many people ask about the difference between certification and IFPS membership. Here are answers to that question and others we are frequently asked.

Q: What is the difference between renewing my membership and my certification?
A: Membership and certification are two different entities. When you renew your membership, you are not renewing your certification. Recertification requires an online application. IFPS membership is not mandatory, but it is highly encouraged. 

Q: I took my certification test. Why do I need to recertify?
A: Because technology changes all the time and IFPS wants to make sure you are up to date with industry information. You wouldn’t want your doctor operating or making a diagnosis if they didn’t continue to stay current in their fields, would you? Therefore, the Fluid Power Certification Board requires ongoing experience, education, and training in the fluid power industry. The recertification process works on a system of professional development points, which can be earned in a number of ways:

• Work in fluid power field a minimum of three years.
• IFPS membership.
• Participate in fluid power committees/subcommittees.
• Participate in other fluid power organizations, such as FPDA, NFPA, NAHAD, SAE, and NAFA.
• Hold volunteer positions in fluid power organizations.
• Attend industry-related meetings.
• Attend vendor workshops, seminars, webinars, and in-house training.
• Present at a vendor workshop, seminar, webinar, or in-house training.
• Earn or teach industry-related college credits.
• Submit articles or technical papers to Fluid Power Journal.
• Submit a sample test question with required references and appropriate graphics and/or schematics to IFPS headquarters. 

Q: How do I recertify?
A: Log in to your IFPS account, visit https://www.ifps.org/certifications and follow the instructions. 

Q: What if I forget to recertify?
A: An IFPS certification is valid for five years, then it must be renewed. IFPS sends recertification reminders in emails, letters, and postcards; however, it is your responsibility to submit the required paperwork by the deadline. Please be sure to update your contact information by updating your account on our website. If you do not submit the paperwork by the expiration date, you may be required to retake the test, and you may no longer use the certification designation after your name. If you’re not sure if your certification has expired, check your profile on the IFPS website or email info@ifps.org.

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The Certification Committee chair is James O’Halek, CFPAI/AJPP, CFPMM, CFPMIP, CFPCC, of The Boeing Company. Vice chair is Steve Bogush, CFPAI/AJPP, CFPHS, CFPIHM, of Poclain Hydraulics. For more information, visit www.ifps.org.