Simply put, in the event a candidate fails his/her first attempt on the corresponding certification exam, a candidate can earn a Free 2nd Shot exam.
To qualify, the candidate must:
The 8570 requirements can be confusing to know what you need to be successful in the military and after you return to the civilian workforce. Click here to read more about the DoD Directive 8570 certification requirements and training courses.
Once you've decided which certification and exam is best for you, there may be questions about how to study and pass the exam. Below are some of the most common questions about 8570 certification exams.
Yes. The 8570.01 and 8570.01-M do not set a limit on the number of times a person may attempt to qualify for certification. Components must support at least one retest attempt, but may enforce a limit on the number of additional retests they will fund.
Ideally, you should make sure that you are fully prepared to take the exam and pass the first-time. This is where a good training course comes in.
If the individual's Component has set a limit on the number of retest attempts, an individual may take a subsequent test at their own expense. If they qualify for certification, then they would qualify to fill an IAT or IAM position (assuming they meet the other requirements such as background investigation, OJT, etc.). Remember, after CY 2010 a DoD military or civilian employee that has not completed the requirements and certifications outlined in the DoD 8570.01-M Manual is not authorized to fill an IAT or IAM billet (2011 for IASAE or CND SP).
You do not have to take a training course to sit a certification. However, you do have to prove you are prepared to take the exam and the DoD strongly encourages specialist exam preparation training.
Under DoD Directive 8570.01 and as specified in DoD 8570.01-M, you are not required to take specific training to prepare for the certification test. However, you should be able to demonstrate the ability to pass the test (e.g., take and pass a "pre-test" or assessment exam).
Your IAM may also require you sit a pre-exam or similar to prove your certification readiness. Unless you can satisfy your IAM of your readiness to pass the certification, they may not release the voucher needed to progress your certification process. Your IAM should verify that you are prepared to take the certification exam before authorizing you to request an exam voucher.
Yes. Chapter 101 of Title 10, United States Code has been amended to permit Services to use appropriated funds to pay for commercial certifications (tests) for uniformed personnel. The FY06 DoD Appropriations Bill gives uniformed personnel parity with civilians.
For training classes see IAM, IAT or contact your NHDoD specialist listed on NHDoD.com.