Pet groomers are not required to hold any official certification in most states, and grooming is largely an unregulated industry. This means anyone can buy a set of clippers and scissors and call themselves a professional groomer.
Several organizations offer groomers the opportunity to seek continuing education and earn certification voluntarily. Some schools also provide their graduates with their own form of accreditation, but there is no one umbrella organization that educates and certifies people in our industry.
So, what should groomers do if they want to improve their knowledge and skills and earn accreditation to prove they are serious about their work? The answer can be found in one word:research.
The most well-known industry certifiers are:
- International Society of Canine Cosmetologists (ISCC)
- National Dog Groomers Association of America (NDGAA)
- International Professional Groomers, Inc. (IPG)
What you need to know is that each organization has its own standards and requirements, but all three offer teaching and testing that cover a wide blanket of required knowledge for groomers. By researching each group, you can find which one best matches your educational and career goals. Some groups offer programs that allow you to do testing via internet connection meetings rather than traveling sometimes long distances to perform in-person grooming skills demonstrations. Depending on where you live, this can make certifying a much more reasonable proposition.
Beyond the more recognizable “big three” certifiers, many other groups offer their own brand of focused, specific educational opportunities that come with a certificate of completion. Some examples of these are the Fear Free Groomer Certification Program, Certified Canine Esthetician, Pet Tech, and many more. If you have the interest and desire, you can add a whole alphabet of certification letters after your name as you pile on the knowledge.
Why would a groomer consider becoming certified?
- Increased knowledge - Even a groomer with years of experience can learn much by becoming certified.
- Recognition - A professional certification indicates your commitment to your career and willingness to perform your work to high standards.
- Increased employability — Employers will give certified groomers more credence when hiring and will most likely offer higher wages to accredited groomers.
- If the industry does become one that requires a license, having prior certifications may work in your favor.
While there is currently no mandatory certification for pet groomers, achieving one or more programs can be a tremendous asset for groomers who are serious about their careers.
