What This Certification Is and Why It Matters

The International Masonry Institute (IMI) offers a range of certifications focused on various aspects of masonry, including bricklaying. IMI is a labor-management cooperative of the International Union of Bricklayers and Allied Craftworkers (BAC) and the contractors who employ its members. These certifications validate skills and knowledge required for entry-level to advanced brickmasonry positions. When architecture, engineering and construction professionals want to assure craftworkers on their projects are uniquely qualified to perform the work, they include IMI certifications in their project specifications, signaling a high level of expertise.

Prerequisites and Eligibility Requirements

Eligibility depends on the specific IMI certification track. For the Historic Masonry Preservation Certificate, candidates must:

  • Be classified as a Journeyman
  • Have 10 years of trade experience (5 years beyond apprenticeship)
  • Be a member of the BAC in good standing

For other IMI certifications like the Grouting and Reinforced Masonry Certification and Advanced Certifications for Tile (ACT), requirements typically include being a BAC journeyworker or advanced apprentice. The Instructor Certification Program requires at least five years of journey-level craft experience and current employment by a local union as an instructor.

Step-by-Step Process to Obtain Certification

The process varies by certification type:

  • Advanced Certifications for Tile (ACT): Candidates take both written and hands-on tests. Each certification takes four to eight hours and requires several days of study time. Study guides are provided, including installation instructions and current industry standards.
  • Grouting and Reinforced Masonry Certification: An eight-hour program covering fundamentals of structural masonry building, codes and standards, reinforcement and connectors, grout placement requirements, and safety. Candidates must attend the class and demonstrate competency in hands-on training.
  • Flashing Certification: An eight-hour program covering the latest techniques in masonry flashing systems and materials, including masonry cavity wall drainage systems and code requirements.
  • Historic Masonry Preservation Certificate: A 50-hour program covering the role of craftworkers in preservation projects, including theory and history behind craftsmanship and contemporary methods and materials for masonry preservation repairs.

Costs

The search results provided do not include specific dollar amounts for training fees, exam fees, or renewal costs. IMI programs are funded by contributions collectively bargained by BAC members and their contractors, which may affect pricing for union members versus non-members. Contact IMI directly or your local BAC union for current fee schedules.

State-by-State Differences

The search results do not identify state-specific differences in IMI bricklayer certification requirements, additional licenses, or reciprocity agreements. IMI certifications are nationally recognized and administered through the International Masonry Institute Training Center in Bowie, Maryland. For state-specific masonry licensing requirements, contact your state's construction licensing board or apprenticeship office.

Renewal and Continuing Education Requirements

The search results provided do not specify renewal timelines or continuing education requirements for IMI certifications. Contact IMI or your local BAC union for details on credential maintenance.

Where to Apply or Register

IMI certifications and training programs are administered through the International Masonry Institute. BAC members can access information through their local union or the BAC website. Non-union workers should contact IMI directly or inquire through signatory contractors in their area. IMI also offers specification language for project requirements, allowing architects and engineers to specify IMI-certified workers on construction projects.

Typical Timeline

Timeline varies significantly by certification. Advanced Certifications for Tile take four to eight hours of instruction plus several days of study. The Grouting and Reinforced Masonry Certification is an eight-hour program. The Historic Masonry Preservation Certificate is a 50-hour program. Most certifications can be completed within weeks to months, though prerequisites like journeyman status and years of trade experience may extend the overall timeline to years.