1. How do I become a National Certified Master Groomer?
In order to become a National Certified Master Groomer, you must complete a series of 4 in-person practical evaluations at approved evaluation events, and 4 online exams. These exams focus on identifying dog breeds, understanding their structure, identifying their breed standard cuts, and knowing the correct grooming tools to use on each breed. The in-person practical examinations require dog groomers to groom specific dogs from each group: Sporting, Nonsporting, Long-Legged Terrier, and Short-Legged Terrier. Dogs must be groomed in a specific timeframe, using specific techniques, and groomers are graded on their ability to demonstrate knowledge of the breed standard and fault correction. Specific evaluation guidelines can be found in the Breed Profile Guidelines book linked on our homepage.
2. What is the difference between a certified dog groomer and an NCMG?
The dog grooming industry is unique in that it does not have a regulatory board or specific entry requirements. While this does make the industry accessible for people without access to formal credentialing or curriculum, it also poses issues for industry professionals who wish to hold themselves to a higher standard. As a client, or prospective dog groomer, it is important to understand what each credential means in practice. The NDGAA prides itself on administering one of the most prestigious and well-respected industry certification pathways, the NCMG. Being an NCMG signifies that a groomer has gone through a series of rigorous tests, proving their knowledge and expertise.
Some groomers also chose to specialize in certain breeds or groups. For those groomers, we offer the option of completing just a portion of the NCMG pathway, and becoming a certified Terrier, Sporting, or Nonsporting groomer.
3. Can I complete NCMG written exams online?
Yes. The written exams are exclusively online at AKC Canine College.
4. How long does NCMG certification take?
Because the NCMG pathway requires completion of several in-person elements, the completion timeline varies from participant to participant. Typically, participants space their testing over the course of 1-2 years, but it is not uncommon for it to take longer. Participants are also required to provide their own dogs, and those dogs must have a specific length of coat. This can also cause fluctuations on how quickly someone completes their testing, as access to suitable dogs varies.
5. Do I need to attend a workshop to become an NCMG?
Yes, workshop attendance is mandatory to complete the NCMG pathway. Workshops can be completed at any point in the testing journey.
6. How much does NCMG certification cost?
The testing bundle, which includes all online exams, and the recording fees for all in-person practical exams can be purchased for $350.00 on AKC Canine College. In-person practical opportunities and workshops are hosted by our NCMG evaluators, who set their own prices. Typically, most evaluators charge about $100.00- $150.00 for practical evaluations conducted at public grooming events.
Private testing is also available through certain evaluators, who often require travel and a day rate to be paid.