CNLP Program - New Applicants
Who is this for: You haven't taken the CNLP exam yet and want to become certified.
Before you apply, you'll need:
- A degree in a horticulture-related field from a recognized two- or four-year college
OR...
- At least three years of experience in the horticulture industry
AND...
- A current CNLP willing to sponsor your application (don't have one? Let us know and we'll match you with one)
Steps:
- Complete the application and pay the fee. Download the CNLP Exam Application (PDF), fill it out, and list all qualifying education/experience. Send it to PlantNYS headquarters with the application fee — scan and email it with a credit card number, or mail it in with a check to PO Box 215, Cambridge, NY, 12816.
- Start Studying. Once we receive your application and payment, we'll send you a secure link to the current CNLP Manual (2022 edition) — the exam is based on this material. Some regions offer review classes before the exam (fees, if any are separate from your application fee). Check the current review sessions and exam date schedule for your region.
- Take the exam. Exams run in late winter / early spring. You'll be registered in your home region (or the nearest one offering an exam) unless you request otherwise. The exam has two parts — a written test and a plant ID test — and you must pass both. If you don't pass one or both sections, you can retake them for a small fee, either that year or the next. Please select the 'Retake Exam' option on the application form.
- Get Certified. Display your CNLP certificate and dacal, and start logging any continuing education you complete — it will count toward your first recertification cycle.
Becoming a CNLP FAQ:
How much does it cost to apply? The current fees are: $175 for PlantNYS Company Members, $350 for non-members. You can contact our office if you are not sure about your company's membership status or wish to join PlantNYS.
How long does the whole process take, from applying to getting certified? The typical timeline (once your application is submitted is 8 to 12 weeks (Review courses in Jan and Feb and testing in March).
I don't have a CNLP to sponsor me. Now what? No problem — let us know when you apply and we'll match you with a sponsor. You don't need to track one down yourself first.
What's on the exam? The exam is based on the current CNLP Manual (2022 edition), which you'll get access to after your application and payment are received. It has two parts: a written test and a plant identification test. You need to pass both.
Where and when is the exam? Exams run in late winter through early spring. You'll be registered in your home region, or the nearest one offering an exam, unless you request a different region. Check current review session and exam dates by region.
What if I fail a section? You can retake the exam for a smaller fee — either later that year or the following year, depending on scheduling.
Do I need to attend a review class? No, review sessions are optional. Some regions offer them in the weeks before the exam; fees for these (if any) are separate from your application fee.
What do I get once I pass? A CNLP certificate and decal. You can start logging continuing education right away. They will count toward your first three-year recertification cycle.
Who do I contact with questions? Your Regional CNLP Coordinator for local/regional questions, or the PlantNYS office at (518) 580-4063 of [email protected] for anything about your application.
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