Agriculture Certifications

Certified Agricultural Irrigation Specialist

Manage agricultural irrigation systems with confidence.

✓ USDA Technical Service Provider pathway

Certification demonstrates expertise in managing on-farm irrigation systems to improve water efficiency and crop performance. A CAIS credential can help you:

  • Demonstrate your technical expertise.
  • Build credibility with customers and employers.
  • Expand career opportunities in agricultural irrigation.
  • Qualify to become a USDA Technical Service Provider.

CAIS Overview

Certified Agricultural Irrigation Specialists manage and operate on-farm irrigation systems. They demonstrate expertise in:

  • Managing surface and pressurized irrigation systems, including microirrigation and sprinklers
  • Evaluating crops, water availability and irrigation requirements
  • Applying soil-water-plant relationships and salinity management principles
  • Selecting appropriate irrigation methods and equipment
  • Developing efficient irrigation schedules that meet crop water requirements

How to become a Certified Agricultural Irrigation Specialist

1. Prepare for the exam

Field experience managing and operating on-farm irrigation systems is recommended. Intermediate math skills are also recommended to help you succeed on the exam.

Explore study resources

2. Pass the Agriculture Irrigation Specialist exam

The three-hour multiple-choice exam includes 100 questions covering:

  • Soil-plant-water relationships
  • Irrigation methods
  • Basic hydraulics
  • Efficiency and uniformity
  • Irrigation scheduling
  • Water quality, salinity and drainage
  • Climate monitoring and control
  • Chemigation
  • Irrigation management

Register for an exam

3. Maintain your certification

To remain certified, you must:

  • ✓ Follow the Select Certified Code of Ethics.
  • ✓ Earn 20 continuing education credits every 2 years.
  • ✓ Pay the annual certification renewal fee.

Review certification maintenance requirements

Exam Fees

Fee IA Member Nonmember
Agriculture Irrigation Specialist Exam $200 $450
Exam Retake $150 $275
Annual Renewal* $75 $125

*Additional certifications are $25 each.


Candidate Handbook

See the Certification Candidate Handbook for complete exam policies, specialty exam details and international testing fees.