What It Is and Why It Matters

The Mason Certification (NCMA) refers to credentials from the National Concrete Masonry Association (NCMA) or North Carolina Masonry Contractors Association (NCMCA), primarily for professionals in concrete masonry. NCMA offers certifications like those for segmental retaining wall (SRW) installers and manufactured stone veneer (MSV) products, validating skills via education, testing, and experience to differentiate services and ensure quality. NCMCA provides individual certifications (CMP for middle management, CME for executives) and company certifications, requiring classes on safety, materials, codes, and business practices. These boost credibility, demonstrate expertise, and are required for some contracts.

Prerequisites and Eligibility

For NCMCA CMP/CME: 5+ years masonry/construction experience or equivalent (e.g., 4-year degree +1 year experience; 2-year degree +3 years). Actively employed in masonry. For NCMA: Varies by program; SRW requires education, testing, work experience. No age minimum specified. MCAA Masonry Certified Craftsman needs skills in blueprints, laying, codes.

Step-by-Step Process

  • Create free NCMA account at ncmahq.org or contact NCMCA at ncmca.com.
  • Submit application with resume, transcripts (if applicable), via profile tabs.
  • Complete required classes (NCMCA: 8-10 daylong sessions with exams; MCAA: earn credits).
  • Pass certification exam (e.g., MCAA: 100 multiple-choice, 80% to pass; open book).
  • Audit may review CPE/docs.

Costs

Application fees set by boards (not specified exactly). NCMCA class fees vary. MCAA exam/renewal: $500 every 3 years. Credits require course payments (e.g., certificates, proofs needed). Ranges: $500-$2,000+ total for training/exams based on programs.

State Differences

Primarily national (NCMA/MCAA), but NCMCA is North Carolina-focused. No broad state licensing for masons; some states require contractor licenses (e.g., via state boards). Check local boards; no reciprocity noted. NCCER masonry levels 1-4 available nationally.

Renewal and Continuing Education

NCMCA: Annual CE credits minimum. MCAA: 75 CE credits for primary (every 3 years, $500 renewal); supervisors 15 credits. NCMA: Track CPE in profile; audit-based, maintain docs. Submit via NCMA tab.

Where to Apply

Typical Timeline

Application review: 15 business days. Classes: 8-10 days over 3 years (NCMCA). Exam prep/study variable. Total: 6-36 months depending on experience/classes.