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General CUSP FAQs

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CUSP Exam FAQs
CUSP Recertification FAQs

General CUSP FAQs

Where can I find the CUSP application?

Click on this link to take you to the CUSP Application page on our website. Click on the green “CUSP Application” button to open the application online. You can create a login and save the application if you are unable to complete it in one sitting.

How do I submit my CUSP application?

Click on this link to take you to the CUSP Application page on the website. Complete the application in its entirety. You can create a login and save the application if you are unable to complete it in one sitting. 

Once you submit the application, your application will be reviewed for eligibility by the CUSP Application Review Committee and you will be notified by email of your application status within 7-10 days. 

This application is valid for one year.  You will need to reapply if you have not sat for the CUSP exams within that one year period.
There is an application fee that will need to be paid prior to being reviewed.
Is there a fee to submit my application?

After submitting your completed application, there will be a link directing you to pay the CUSP Application Fee ($80/USOLN non-member and $60/USOLN member) that is necessary for your application to be reviewed by the CUSP Application Review Committee.

Are CUSP exam preparation materials available?

You can find resources to help prepare for the CUSP exam on this page: Prepare for CUSP Exam.

How do I know if I should take the blue CUSP base exam or the green CUSP base exam?

You can review the CUSP eligibility requirements on this page: CUSP Eligibility. If you are still unsure, fill out the CUSP application select the CUSP base exam that is closest to your background. The CUSP application review committee will make the final determination of your exam eligibility.

Do I have to take an endorsement exam?

Yes, you will need to pass the CUSP base exam and one endorsement exam in order to become a CUSP credential holder.

When will I get my CUSP exam results?

You will be notified by email within 7 business days after taking the exam. You will be notified whether you passed or failed. Actual scores will not be provided.

What happens if I do not pass the CUSP Exam?

You must pass both the CUSP base exam (green or blue) and at least one CUSP endorsement exam in order to be awarded the CUSP credential. If you pass a base exam and not an endorsement exam, you would need to retake just the endorsement exam and vice versa. If you need to retake an exam, go to the “Exam Info & Fees” page and register for a retake exam.  There is a $100 exam fee per exam.

Should you apply to retest after one year, you will be required to re-submit an application and start the process again.

How do I register for the CUSP online exam?

After your application has been approved, go to the CUSP Exam Info & Fees Schedule page to review the fees information and register for the exam. 

How can I use the CUSP credential title that I have earned?

The CUSP credential is only for the authorized use of the individuals to which it has been awarded to.  You can display your CUSP title after your name on resumes, business cards, correspondence and email signatures.  Here are some examples:

  • John P. Smith, CUSP
  • John P. Smith, Certified Utility Safety Professional
  • John P. Smith, (request logo from USOLN at memberservices@usoln.org)

The CUSP credential is only authorized for use during the period the certification is valid; it expires if you have not met the recertification requirements and your CUSP credential is revoked.

I’m retiring soon. Is there an Emeritus Status available for CUSPs?

Yes, If you are retiring but are proud of the CUSP credential that you earned and would like to continue to use the designation, the USOLN now offers the CUSP Emeritus status.

Details and an application form are available here.

What is your privacy policy regarding my CUSP candidate and credential holder information?

The USOLN will keep all CUSP candidate and credential holder personal and examination records confidential and will obtain your approval before releasing information from your CUSP records other than the cases listed below:

  • The name only of each CUSP credential holder will be published in the CUSP Roster on the USOLN website.
  • If the USOLN receives an inquiry, we will provide verification of your certification to the public.
What is the difference between a certification and a certificate program?
A certification, such as the CUSP credential, is developed to assess an individual’s competence, i.e. knowledge, skills and abilities that they have gained through their job experience and education throughout their career against an established standard. A certificate program begins with education and training that is delivered and an assessment is done to document the achievement of the learning outcomes or mastery of the material.