PROFESSIONALISM THROUGH CERTIFICATION
The Institute for RFID Education, Research and Certification
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)
General Questions
What is the RFID Professional Institute?
The Institute is an autonomous, for-profit educational organization, dedicated to advancing the state-of-the-art in effective and appropriate application of radio frequency identification (RFID) technology in industry, government, and non-commercial organizations through technology-neutral, vendor-neutral, and independent RFID education and certifications.
It was originally formed as a not-for-profit organization called the International RFID Institute. It was renamed in 2014 to better reflect the Institute's emphasis on improving professionalism within the global RFID industry. Over time, the founding members had personal commitments that led to their inability to devote further time to the Institute, and in 2022, they voted to disband the organization and transfer its assets—that is, the curriculum for the exams, as well as the question banks—to RFID Strategies LLC, a consulting firm owned and run by Mark Roberti, a founding member.
Since then, Roberti has worked to revive and rebuild the institute. Its mission remains the same as at its founding—to promote the “public good” that comes from having industry and professionals achieve high levels of professionalism through the education and the development of technology- and vendor-neutral certification exams.
Why was the Institute formed?
A group of individuals concerned about the professionalism of RFID implementors and the success of RFID deployments came together in April 2012 to launch an effort to replace RFID+ Certification, which was retired by CompTIA in 2011. All individuals participating in the creation of the Institute donated their time and expertise for the betterment of the RFID industry.
Who are the founders?
The RFID Professioanl Institute was founded by several leaders in the RFID industry who believe an investment in forming such a not-for-profit organization focused on education, research, and certification will benefit both RFID professionals and the general public. While they are no longer involved in the Institute, we continue to recognize their contribution. You can view the list of founders here.
What technologies will be covered under the RFID Professional Institute’s certification program?
The Institute takes a broad view of the term “radio frequency identification” because it is essential that implementers understand all the tools at their disposal. We will also cover non-RFID technologies that might be part of or an alternative to an RFID solution, including a variety of Internet of Things technologies.
What certificates does the Institute offer?
The RFID Professional Institute currently has two certificates: The Associate Certificate, introduced in 2014, and the Professional Certificate, introduced in 2019.
More advanced certification levels will be introduced in the future.
What is a Subject Matter Expert?
A Subject Matter Expert (SME) is someone who has either academic or other expertise in an area, usually with real-world experience. Subject matter experts are recruited to help further the Institute's programs (e.g. developing materials for certification testing).
How can I become a Subject Matter Expert?
If you would like to become a SME, please see our SMEs section for more information.
If you would like to just see what experience & knowledge is required on our Qualification Guidelines page.
Membership Questions
Who are current RFID Professional Institute members?
The RFID Professional Institute membership includes both U.S.-based and international individuals and organizations covering the full spectrum of the RFID industry, including hardware and software suppliers, systems integrators, training organizations and media companies. We are working hard to expand membership around the world.
What membership levels are available?
There are three primary types of membership – Advisory Council Member, organizational Member and Individual member. Within these three categories, we have different pricing for companies, government agencies and nonprofits, and academics. For more details, visit our Membership section.
What is the cost of a yearly membership?
The cost of membership depends on whether you join as a company or individual and whether you join as an Advisory Council Member, Corporate Member, Government/Nonprofit Member or Academic Member. For more details, visit our Membership section.
Can I upgrade my membership level?
Yes, any organizational member can upgrade to Advisory Council level before their expiration of your annual membership. The additional cost will be prorated based on how many months in your membership remain. If less than six months remain, you will be required to sign up for another 12 months at the Advisory Council Member rate.
Can non-Advisory Council Members participate on the Advisory Council?
Yes, any member is eligible to participate on a council. The Board of Directors will decide how many people can participate and what role each individual can play in council activities. The Board can vote new members onto the Advisory Council.
Why should I consider becoming an Advisory Council Member?
Advisory Council Members have a leadership voice in the industry through the Institute and can help to shape the Institute’s Certification Program. Advisory Council members can nominate subject matter experts to participate in the development of certification tests and enjoy the enhance status of having subject matter experts on their staff. Advisory Council Members also get complimentary vouchers and discounts on testing. For more details, visit our membership page.
Why do you have individual memberships?
There are many individuals who have a great deal of knowledge and expertise that they can contribute to the Institute and the RFID industry. We created individual memberships to ensure that the Institute can benefit from their expertise and so that individuals can enjoy the benefits of membership and be recognized for their achieved level of professional knowledge regarding RFID.
Can non-U.S. companies join the Institute?
Do you have to be a member of the Institute to receive training and certification?
No, the RFID Professional Institute offers certification to members and nonmembers alike. Individuals who are employed by member organizations receive discounts and other benefits reserved for member organizations.
Where can I get more details about member benefits?
For more details on the types of memberships available and the benefits associated with each type of membership, visit our Membership section.