Certified Remodeler (CR)
Ideal for remodeling business owners and managers whose company provides a full range of remodeling services.
Eligibility and Certification Process
Check if you're eligible
Before applying for CR certification, assure you meet the following certification requirements:
- Currently employed by or own a firm that derives at least 90% of its sales volume through remodeling work
- Minimum of five (5) years continuous experience in the remodeling industry
- Minimum of 16 hours of continuing education or attendance of a CR certification preparatory course.
Decide how to prepare for your exam
Before applying for certification, decide which of the following exam preparation paths fits your schedule and learning style:
- CR Online Certification Preparatory Course – Comprehensive, instructor-led, 12-week online class (95%+ of candidates select this option)
- You will be able to enroll in the CR online preparatory course as part of your certification application.
- You must enroll in certification in order to enroll in the preparatory course.
- In-Person Local NARI Chapter Courses – Preparatory classes may be offered in person by select NARI chapters (check with your local NARI chapter for availability)
- Self-Study – Use the program study materials provided upon enrollment to prepare for the exam.
Apply for certification
- Submit an online certification application demonstrating compliance with the prerequisites of the CR certification.
- You will be able to enroll in a preparatory course via the certification application.
- Certification and preparatory course fees are due at the time of application.
All applications are carefully reviewed by NARI Certification staff to confirm eligibility.
Take your certification exam
After you have enrolled in certification and attended the preparatory course or self-studied, you must complete and pass a 200 question, 4-hour, multiple choice, online exam proctored by a live online proctor to ensure examination integrity.
You can review the exam schedule and more detailed examination information here.
You have two years from the time you enroll in certification to take and pass your exam.
You get three tries at passing your certification exam. Your first try is included in your initial certification fee but a $50 retest fee applies if you need to retake your exam.
If you are unable to pass your exam within two years of your initial enrollment in the certification and within three tries, you will have to re-enroll in the certification program and pay the certification fee again, if you wish to continue to pursue the certification.
Don't forget to renew your certification
Certification is an ongoing commitment. You must renew your certification annually prior to its expiration date.
CR Renewal Requirements
- 10 hours of continuing education (10 CEUs) earned within the 12 months preceding your certification expiration date.
- Completion of the online CR renewal application
- Payment of your CR certification renewal fee
Check out NARI's On-Demand Educational Library for continuing education at your fingertips.
CR Certification Renewal Fee
NARI Member Renewal Fee: $94
Non-Member Renewal Fee: $188
Benefits of CR Certification
Managing a full range remodeling business requires a solid foundation in core business principles and specialized technical skills to ensure operational efficiency and long-term profitability.
- Enhance business performance – Strengthen your business management skills to improve profitability, increase project efficiency, and streamline operations.
- Deliver exceptional client value – Establish yourself as a trusted, go-to professional for clients seeking high-quality remodeling expertise.
- Demonstrate professionalism and integrity – Validate your commitment to excellence, ethical practice, and customer satisfaction.
- Stand out in the marketplace – Differentiate yourself and your business and increase visibility.
Certification Fees
Employees of NARI member companies receive significant discounts on NARI certification fees, prep course fees, and annual certification renewal fees.
| Certification Fee | Online Prep Course Fee | Annual Renewal Fee | |
| NARI Member | $600 | $349 | $94 |
| Non-Member | $850 | $499 | $188 |