The American Association for Laboratory Animal Science (AALAS) offers prestigious certifications for professionals working with laboratory animals. AALAS certifications are globally recognized as the gold standard in laboratory animal science and set you apart as an expert in the field. There are two main certification programs offered by AALAS – the Technician Certification Program and the Certified Manager of Animal Resources (CMAR) Program
Why Get AALAS Certified?
Here are some of the key benefits of getting AALAS certified
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Professional Credibility AALAS certification demonstrates your expertise and commitment to high standards in laboratory animal care and use. It gives you instant credibility with employers, colleagues and regulatory agencies.
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Career Advancement: Certification can open doors to career advancement opportunities and higher salaries. Many employers require AALAS certification for senior level roles. It shows you are serious about your profession.
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Industry Recognition: The AALAS certifications are globally recognized in pharmaceutical, biotech and academic research organizations that work with laboratory animals. It sets you apart from uncertified techs.
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Personal Growth: Preparing for certification helps you strengthen your knowledge and skills. The continuing education requirements also ensure you stay up-to-date on the latest advancements in the field.
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Sense of Achievement: Earning a certification is a major accomplishment that demonstrates your expertise and merits recognition from peers. It can give you immense pride and confidence.
AALAS Technician Certification Program
The AALAS Technician Certification Program offers three certification levels for animal care technicians and technologists:
- Assistant Laboratory Animal Technician (ALAT)
- Laboratory Animal Technician (LAT)
- Laboratory Animal Technologist (LATG)
Each level has its own eligibility criteria, exam content and continuing education requirements. The higher the certification, the more rigorous the requirements. Thousands of technicians have been certified under this flagship program since its inception in 1991.
Eligibility Requirements
To be eligible for each certification level, you must meet the minimum education and experience requirements:
ALAT: High school diploma or equivalent plus 6 months full-time employment (1020 hours minimum) or equivalent part-time employment providing husbandry care for laboratory animals.
LAT: High school diploma or equivalent plus 1 year full-time employment (1820 hours minimum) or equivalent part-time employment providing husbandry care and performing experimental techniques with laboratory animals.
LATG: Associate’s degree in a related science plus 2 years full-time employment (3640 hours minimum) or equivalent part-time employment providing husbandry care and performing experimental techniques with laboratory animals.
You must also be in good standing with AAALAC and free of convictions for animal welfare violations. Detailed eligibility criteria is provided in the Technician Certification Handbook. Work experience must be verified by a supervisor.
Exam Content and Format
Each certification exam covers domains relevant to that level:
ALAT Exam: Husbandry, care and handling of common laboratory species.
LAT Exam: Husbandry, technical support skills, regulations, occupational health and safety.
LATG Exam: Advanced technical skills, administration, supervision, regulations, education and training.
The exams contain multiple-choice questions and are administered on computers at designated Prometric testing centers. You can schedule the exam date after your application is approved.
Study Resources
AALAS provides detailed exam content outlines and reference lists to help you prepare for the exams. Some recommended study resources include:
- AALAS Technician Training Manuals
- Animal training videos
- JAALAS articles
- AALAS Learning Library
- AALAS webinars and publications
- Species-specific guides
- Professional experience
You can prepare on your own or join a study group. Hands-on practice and work experience in relevant areas is key. Some employers also provide exam prep courses.
Maintaining Certification
To maintain your certification, you must:
- Pay annual registry fee
- Accrue continuing education credits yearly through qualifying activities stated in the handbook.
- Adhere to the AALAS Code of Ethics and professional standards
Re-certification is required every 3 years by accruing 36 CE credits or re-taking the exam. Detailed recertification policies are provided in the handbook.
AALAS CMAR Certification
The CMAR certification recognizes expertise in managing laboratory animal care and use programs. It is ideal for facility managers, veterinarians, IACUC administrators and directors of animal research resources.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for the CMAR exam, you must:
- Hold a bachelor’s degree or higher
- Have 5 years full-time postgraduate work experience managing animal resources, including 3 years in a management role with budgetary, supervisory and program authority and responsibility.
Detailed requirements are in the CMAR Handbook. Related work experience must be verified by employer organizations.
Exam Content and Format
The CMAR exam covers five knowledge areas:
- Regulatory Compliance
- Animal Facility Management
- Animal Program Management
- Business and Financial Management
- Leadership and Professionalism
It contains 200 multiple-choice questions. You can schedule the exam after your application is approved.
Study Resources
- CMAR Study Guide
- Suggested reading list
- AALAS webinars and publications related to management
- JAALAS articles on management topics
- On-job management experience
- AALAS Learning Library
How to Apply for AALAS Certification
Follow these key steps to earn your AALAS certification:
1. Review the Handbook
Carefully go through every section of the Technician or CMAR certification handbook relevant to the exam you are applying for. Note the eligibility criteria, fees, exam content details, application process and deadlines.
2. Determine Eligibility
Review the education and experience requirements for the certification level and ensure you meet them. Track your animal experience and get your supervisor to verify your work history.
3. Prepare Application
Collect all required information and documentation. Fill out the application form completely. Provide details of your education, employment history and animal experience. Incomplete applications can cause delays.
4. Submit Application
Send the completed application and fee payment to AALAS. For technician certification, also submit the verified work experience form signed by your supervisor. All communication from AALAS will be via email so provide accurate contact information.
5. Schedule Exam
Once approved, you will receive an exam authorization email from AALAS. Follow the instructions to register with Prometric and schedule your exam date within the allotted window. Select a test center conveniently located for you.
6. Study and Take Exam
Now begin your exam preparation! Review the exam content outline and study resources. On exam day, reach the center on time and take the test. Bring required IDs. Avoid rescheduling or you may have to repay fees.
7. Maintain Certification
On passing, you will receive a certification packet from AALAS. You must meet annual requirements to maintain active certification status. Recertification is required every 3 years.
Following this application process ensures you meet all requirements for AALAS certification smoothly. Be organized, prepare thoroughly and demonstrate your expertise through certification!
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need AALAS membership to get certified?
No, you do not need to be an AALAS member to earn certification. However, members get significantly reduced application and exam fees.
How much does certification cost?
For 2022, ALAT/LAT/LATG exam fees are $175/$225/$275 for AALAS members and $250/$300/$350 for non-members. CMAR exam fee is $350 members/$525 non-members. Annual registry fees also apply to maintain active status.
When are exams offered?
Technician exams are offered on demand year-round through Prometric centers. You can test as soon as your application is approved. The CMAR exam is held twice a year – April and October.
How long is certification valid?
AALAS certifications are valid for 3 years. You must meet annual requirements and recertify at the end of the 3-year term to maintain active status. Lifetime certifications are not currently offered.
What accommodation is offered for disabilities?
AALAS works with Prometric to provide reasonable accommodations for disabilities that do not compromise exam integrity. Visit www.prometric.com to request accommodations.
Can the exam be taken outside the US?
Yes, the Prometric network has sites across the globe so you can test in your country if an approved center is located there. Ensure you have the proper ID and visa docs.
Are study materials provided by AALAS?
AALAS does not provide comprehensive study guides but does give content outlines, reference lists and suggested study resources. Many preparatory resources are available through the AALAS Learning Library.
What score is needed to pass the exam?
AALAS does not publish specific pass scores or cut
