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FAQs
Q. I work for a company that installs automated gate systems, but I do not have direct installation experience. Am I eligible for the CGAD program?
A. Candidates are not required to have installation experience for the CGAD program. If you have one year of experience in the automated gate systems industry at any position, you are eligible for the CGAD program. If you do not have one year of experience, you may also attend the American Fence Association’s Gate Automation Designer School and the experience requirement will be waived.
Q. What kind of continuing education credits are valid for my CGAD recertification?
A. Any courses that relate to automated gates or access control topics are eligible.
Additional FAQs
Q. What is the difference between certification and accreditation?
A. Certification recognizes individuals. Accreditation recognizes companies.
Q. I don’t meet the experience requirements for a certification program yet. Can I still apply?
A. Yes! If you are within one year of meeting the experience requirements, you may sit for the certification exam. If you pass, your credential will be held until all other requirements are met.
Q. Can I test online?
A. Currently, ACI offers all certification testing in-person only.
Q. Does ACI offer education or training to go with its certification programs?
A. No. ACI is a credentialing body only and all programs are self-study. Other organizations do offer hands-on training courses that use the same study guides, but these courses do not “teach to the test” or have any knowledge of what material is included in exam questions.
Q. Do I have to keep track of all my continuing education credits for three years until my renewal application is due?
A. You will be required to enter your continuing education credits as part of your renewal application. However, you may enter them into your ACI profile as you earn them over the three-year period and they will be available to select as part of your renewal application when it is due.
Eligibility Requirements
The CGAD designation is ideal for designers, sales professionals, and consultants who plan automated gate systems. It proves you have the knowledge to design safe, compliant, and effective solutions for customers.
Applicants must have a minimum of one year of gate automation experience. If you do not yet meet the experience requirement, you may still take the exam and your credential will be awarded once the requirement is met.
Preparation
Applicants are encouraged but not required to attend AFA’s Gate Automation Designer School to strengthen their knowledge and improve exam success.
Topics Covered
The CGAD exam covers:
- Types of gates and operators
- UL 325
- ASTM F2200
- Manual on Uniform Traffic Control Devices (MUTCD)
- Electrical wiring
- Access control devices
- Vehicle detection systems
- Power fail options
- High security installations
- Other site considerations
Study materials are sent electronically following application approval.
Testing
The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice and scenario-based questions, testing both technical knowledge and application in real-world design.
Recertification
The CGAD certification is valid for three years. To renew, you must complete 12 hours of gate automation/access control-related continuing education within that period.
Accepted Continuing Education Includes:
Not eligible: Time spent viewing exhibits.
Reporting Your Education
When you submit your renewal application, you’ll need to include:
- Date(s) of session
- Session title
- Instructor name
- Organization providing training
- Proof of attendance with hours earned (certificate or signed letter; payment receipt not accepted)
You can add CEUs to your MyAFA Profile as you earn them – no need to wait until renewal. Just go to the Education tab, click “Add”, and follow the prompts.
Important Notes:
- Requirements are subject to change by the AFA Credentialing Committee.
- If you do not meet renewal requirements, you must reapply and retake the certification exam.
Stay Certified
Keep your credential active by tracking your education along the way.
Renew Now
FAQs
Q. I work for a company that installs automated gate systems, but I do not have direct installation experience. Am I eligible for the CGAD program?
A. Candidates are not required to have installation experience for the CGAD program. If you have one year of experience in the automated gate systems industry at any position, you are eligible for the CGAD program. If you do not have one year of experience, you may also attend the American Fence Association’s Gate Automation Designer School and the experience requirement will be waived.
Q. What kind of continuing education credits are valid for my CGAD recertification?
A. Any courses that relate to automated gates or access control topics are eligible.
