Introduction
CMVA Certification is built on ISO 18436-2 and awarded under ISO/IEC 17024 guidelines. We certify vibration analysts in Categories I, II, and III through a transparent, standardized process that defines clear performance objectives for each level.
Whether you’re starting with data collection or advancing to complex diagnostic program management, CMVA ensures your skills are internationally aligned and professionally recognized.
Why Get Certified?
Certified vibration analysts help companies reduce unexpected downtime, extend machine life, and optimize maintenance — increasing both reliability and profitability.
Benefits for Individuals
- Better job opportunities
- Career advancement
- Clear technical benchmarks
- Trust and credibility
Benefits for Employers
- Skill-based hiring criteria
- Structured training planning
- Demonstrated competency
- Confidence in service quality
Certification Requirements
Note: If you’re missing experience, you may still write the exam and be issued a certificate later once experience is verified.
Certification Levels
Category I
Personnel classified to Category I shall at least:
a) know of the basic principles of vibration and recognize the different units of measurement;
b) be able to collect reliable data ensuring appropriate standards of repeatability;
c) be able to identify errors in collected data;
d) be able to retrieve pre-defined measurement settings for use with VA equipment and transfer data from an analysis system to a computer-based system;
e) be able to compare overall or single-value vibration measurements against pre-established alert settings;
f) be able to identify deviations from the norm for single-value vibration values and trends
g) report on visual observations of equipment
They shall not be responsible for:
the choice of sensor, test method or technique or for any analysis or diagnosis to be conducted;
the assessment of test results, other than identifying conditions against pre-established criteria, such as acceptance, alert, alarm, shutdown, etc
Category II
Personnel classified to Category II require all the knowledge, experience and skills expected of Category I, and in addition they shall at least:
a) be able to define the measurement activities to be undertaken by a category I individual in the course of routine data collection;
b) be aware of and capable of using the basic principles of signal analysis and, as such, can define acquisition and analysis settings to collect data appropriate to the machine(s) monitored;
c) be able to perform basic (single-channel) impact tests to determine natural frequencies;
d) be able to interpret and evaluate test results from routine analysis and acceptance tests in accordance with specifications and standards;
e) be able to diagnose common fault indications and recommend basic corrective actions commensurate with their area of machinery experience including carrying out single-plane balancing of rigid rotors with or without phase;
f) be able to provide technical guidance to and instruct Category I
Category III
Personnel classified to Category III require all the knowledge, experience and skills expected of personnel classified to Categories I and II, and in addition shall at least:
a) be able to design, direct and establish routine condition monitoring programmes and non-routine investigations for the purpose of fault diagnosis;
b) be able to specify the appropriate vibration instrumentation hardware, software, and processing for portable monitoring systems, permanently installed surveillance systems, and equipment protection systems
c) have an in-depth knowledge of the principles and techniques of machinery VA and be able to make initial diagnoses of suspected faults beyond the range of commonly encountered This should include, but not be limited to, the use of frequency spectra, time waveforms and orbits, transfer functions, basic operating deflection shapes, and acceleration enveloping under both steady state and transient conditions with or without a phase trigger;
d) be able to manage such condition-monitoring programmes, evaluate the alarm sets, write working procedures and specify vibration acceptance testing procedures;
e) be able to initiate and validate machinery corrective actions including in situ two-plane rigid rotor balancing;
f) be able to recommend restrictions to machine operation;
g) be able to understand and direct, when necessary, alternative condition monitoring technologies to verify or investigate issues raised through routine data collection;
h) be able to provide technical guidance to and instruct Category I and II personnel, and, subject to agreement with the employer or client, deem them competent to carry out certain duties which would normally be outside the scope of those competencies.
It is the responsibility of the employer or client to ensure that Category III personnel have the necessary competency in the required management skills, e.g. creating budgets, preparing cost justifications, and managing personnel development.
Note: CMVA does not currently certify for Category IV. Details about Category IV can be found here.
Performance Objectives
Category I Performance Objectives
Category I certification focuses on fundamental data collection skills, including sensor placement, data acquisition, and basic measurement techniques. Candidates must demonstrate proficiency in operating vibration monitoring equipment and understanding basic vibration principles.
Category II Performance Objectives
Category II certification covers basic fault analysis and interpretation of vibration data. This includes identifying common machine faults, understanding frequency analysis, and making basic diagnostic recommendations based on vibration signatures.
Category III Performance Objectives
Category III certification encompasses advanced diagnostics and program management. This includes complex fault analysis, program design and implementation, advanced measurement techniques, and comprehensive reporting capabilities.
All performance objectives are based on ISO 18436-2 Annex A, Table A.1, and developed by CMVA’s Training and Certification Committee.
Certification Validity & Renewal
Certification is valid for 5 years.
Important Rule Change: As of June 1, 2020, membership is no longer required to maintain certification—but renewal fees apply unless membership is continuous.
Renewal Options:
- 💸 Renewal fee: $450 (for non-members)
- 🆓 Waived for continuous members: No fee if you maintain active CMVA membership
This change ensures certified professionals can maintain their credentials regardless of membership status while encouraging continued engagement with the CMVA community.
Impartiality Statement
CMVA certifies without commercial, financial, or political bias. We uphold ISO/IEC 17024 impartiality and transparency at every step.
The Canadian Machinery Vibration Association (CMVA) is committed to maintaining the highest standards of impartiality in all certification activities. Our certification process is designed to be fair, objective, and free from any conflicts of interest that could compromise the integrity of our assessments.
We ensure that all certification decisions are based solely on documented evidence of competence against established criteria, without influence from commercial, financial, or other pressures that could affect the outcome.
Our commitment to impartiality extends to all aspects of our certification process, including application review, examination administration, and ongoing surveillance activities.