Already Trained? Now Get Certified.
You've invested in your mediation education. Now take the next step toward professional recognition with NACM's Initial Mediator Certification Examination.
Designed for individuals who have already completed at least 40 hours of advanced mediation training.
Upon successful certification, eligible members in good standing can participate in NACM's professional community and membership benefit programs.
Initial Mediator Certification
Certification examination and accompanying materials.
- Online certification study guide
- Online certification examination
- Certification documents upon successful completion
- Minimum passing score of 70%
- Requires proof of 40 hours of advanced training
- Access to eligible NACM membership benefits upon successful certification and while in good standing
Already completed your training? This pathway is for you.
Two Pathways. One Professional Goal.
Whether you're beginning your mediation career or have already completed your professional training, NACM has a pathway for you.
$399 Mediator Certification Examination
Best for: Experienced individuals who have already completed a minimum of 40 hours of advanced mediation training.
Instead of repeating an entire training program, you can demonstrate your existing knowledge through the NACM certification examination.
- Requires prior qualifying training
- Certification study guide included
- Certification examination included
- No repeat of the full 40-hour course required
- Certification upon successful completion
- Eligible membership benefits
Complete 40-Hour Mediator Certification Course
Best for: Beginners, aspiring mediators, and professionals who haven't yet completed the required mediation training.
This is the comprehensive training route. Learn essential mediation concepts, practice techniques, and develop foundational skills before completing your certification requirements.
- No prior mediation experience required
- 40 hours of mediation education
- Instructional videos and lessons
- Practice exercises and learning activities
- Certification examination
- Coaching and course support as advertised
Which NACM Program Should You Choose?
The primary difference is simple: one program evaluates your previous mediation training, while the other provides the training itself.
| Feature | $399 Examination | 40-Hour Course |
|---|---|---|
| Designed For | Previously trained mediators | New and aspiring mediators |
| Prior Training | Minimum 40 hours required | No experience required |
| Full Instruction | Not included | Included |
| Study Materials | Certification study guide | Comprehensive course materials |
| Practice Activities | Not a full training program | Included in the course |
| Live Coaching | Not included in this examination offer | Advertised course coaching support |
| Certification Exam | Included | Included |
| Certificate | Upon successful completion | Upon successful completion |
| Professional Community | Eligible NACM membership benefits | Alumni community and course support |
| Primary Purpose | Certify existing mediation knowledge | Build mediation knowledge and skills |
Specific membership benefits are subject to good standing, eligibility, and program availability.
Get Certified in Four Steps
A straightforward process for applicants who have already completed their mediation training.
Enroll
Register for the initial certification examination and pay the $399 fee.
Verify Training
Upload proof of at least 40 hours of qualifying advanced mediation training.
Pass the Exam
Review the online study guide and pass the certification examination with 70% or higher.
Become Certified
Complete the requirements and receive your certification documents. Explore eligible NACM membership benefits.
More Than a Credential. A Professional Community.
Certification is an important milestone. NACM also provides professional networking, visibility, resources, and development opportunities for eligible members in good standing.
Professional Networking
Connect with fellow mediators, develop professional relationships, and participate in NACM's private membership community.
Public Member Directory
Promote your mediation services, connect with other members, and provide a place for prospective clients or employers to verify your listing.
Recognition Opportunities
Opportunities for member spotlights, organizational recognition, and celebrating accomplishments within the mediation community.
Career & Business Resources
Access professional resources, career guidance, and opportunities to learn more about building a mediation practice.
Continued Learning
Explore additional certifications, flexible learning opportunities, professional events, and educational content.
Member Discounts
Opportunities for discounted merchandise, advanced mediation courses, trainer programs, and business mentoring.
16 Ways NACM Supports Your Mediation Journey
Following successful certification, members in good standing may participate in the applicable benefits below. Some initiatives are planned or offered as opportunities, rather than guaranteed services.
01 Networking Opportunities
Build meaningful relationships within the mediation profession. NACM's private mediator community provides opportunities to meet fellow professionals, exchange ideas, and develop connections.
02 Organizational Awards
NACM plans to recognize members whose service and contributions strengthen the mediation community.
- Long-standing members
- Active event and meeting participants
- Members contributing volunteer hours
- Trailblazers in the mediation profession
03 Member of the Month
NACM plans to highlight members through its website or newsletter.
- Recognition for active contributions
- Member stories and introductions
- Randomly selected member features
- Member-nominated recognition
04 Featured Member Profiles
Members may have opportunities to be featured on NACM's membership website.
- Celebrate professional achievements
- Introduce your mediation practice
- Share business and career milestones
- Help fellow members get to know you
05 Member Coupons & Discounts
NACM plans to offer member discounts on selected products and programs.
- NACM merchandise: View apparel
- Marketing for Mediation courses
- Train-the-Trainer courses
- Mediation business mentoring
Discounts are subject to the offers available at the time of purchase.
06 Career Advice & Support
Access professional development resources and career-related support.
- Educational videos and courses
- Professional publications
- Useful reference resources
- Mediation business mentoring opportunities
07 Public Member Directory
NACM maintains a public directory where members can enhance professional visibility and connect with others.
- Build professional relationships
- Connect with mediators sharing your interests
- Promote mediation services or a practice
- Provide a directory listing for credential verification
08 Job Postings & Career Opportunities
NACM plans to provide job-board opportunities for its members.
- Discover relevant job postings
- Explore professional opportunities
- Stay informed about openings
- Connect employers and professionals
09 Online Membership Community
Connect with members, volunteers, staff, and other participants through NACM's online community.
- Participate in professional conversations
- Share educational resources
- Exchange industry news
- Stay informed about association updates
10 Member Event Calendar
NACM plans to offer an accessible calendar of association activities.
- Virtual, hybrid, and in-person events
- Member meetings
- Important deadlines
- Webinars and live training sessions
11 Free Virtual Events
Eligible members may have opportunities to participate in free virtual professional-development events.
- Educational webinars
- Panel discussions
- Live training sessions
- Mediation case studies
Event offerings depend on the NACM schedule.
12 Exclusive Member Content
NACM plans to publish valuable professional content for members.
- Blogs and educational articles
- Member newsletters
- Periodic publications
- Educational videos
- Podcast content
13 Annual Virtual Conference
NACM plans to offer a virtual conference designed for professional learning, networking, and the exchange of ideas.
- Keynote speakers
- Educational workshops
- Networking sessions
- New ideas and emerging practices
14 Flexible e-Learning
Members may explore professional learning opportunities designed to accommodate different schedules and learning preferences.
Self-paced education can help mediators continue developing their knowledge while managing existing obligations.
15 Additional Professional Certifications
NACM offers pathways for continued professional specialization and development. Additional certification programs may help members:
- Develop skills for a new professional role
- Add services to a mediation practice
- Prepare for different professional projects
- Expand knowledge and responsibilities
Additional certifications may require separate registration and fees.
16 Digital Membership Identification
NACM describes a digital membership identification card for smartphone access, including Apple and Android devices.
Card access and app availability should be confirmed through NACM's current member instructions.
Membership Benefit Information: Benefits are available to eligible members in good standing and are subject to current NACM offerings. Some features described above are planned initiatives or recognition opportunities, and are not guaranteed to every member. Certification does not guarantee employment, clients, or acceptance by every court or organization.
Questions About Certification?
Is the $399 certification the same as the 40-hour course?
No. The $399 certification examination is designed for individuals who have already completed at least 40 hours of advanced mediation training. It provides a certification study guide and examination, not the full foundational training course.
What if I have never taken mediation training?
We recommend beginning with NACM's complete 40-Hour Mediator Certification Course, which provides foundational education, practical activities, and the certification pathway for new mediators.
Can previous mediation training qualify?
Applicants must provide proof of completing at least 40 hours of advanced mediation training. If you're uncertain whether your prior program qualifies, contact NACM before registering.
What is the passing score?
Applicants must score at least 70% on the NACM certification examination.
Are the membership benefits available after certification?
NACM describes membership benefits for individuals who have successfully completed certification and remain members in good standing. Individual benefits depend on current availability and applicable membership requirements.
Can certification help me develop my mediation business?
Certification can document your completion of NACM's requirements. Member directory visibility, networking, professional education, and business resources may also support your professional development. Results depend on your individual efforts and market conditions.
Is NACM certification accepted by every court?
Courts, states, employers, and mediation programs can establish their own qualifications. Confirm the requirements of your intended jurisdiction or employer before enrolling.
You've Completed Your Training. Now Take the Next Step Toward Certification.
Demonstrate your mediation knowledge, earn your NACM certification upon successful completion, and explore professional membership opportunities.