Certification
The PCGAA believes that by continuing your education you will be setting yourself apart from the average groomer by having credentials acknowledging your achievements and talents.
However, the PCGAA respects the wishes of groomers who do not wish to continue their education but would like to be members. All are welcome.
Working towards the title of CMCG is not a requirement for membership. Membership is open to all groomers regardless.
There is no time limit on how long it takes you to complete all phases of testing. If you would like to take (1) one written test one time and the next time you want to take (2) two, that's perfectly acceptable. There is no need to rush through the testing process. A thorough understanding of the contents of the courses is more important than rushing to get certified.
A total of 4 writtens exams, with a passing grade of 85% or higher, is required in order to obtain certification and title of Certified Master Cat Groomer. A grade of 97% is required if you are interested in becoming a Certifier for the PCGAA.
Certification of Feline First Aid and CPR is a requirement for the Certified Master Cat Groomer certification. Previous certification within the last 2 years will be accepted.
The exams are designed specifically to teach every aspect of feline grooming and not just the basics. We feel a specialized feline instruction and certification allows grooming professionals to expand their knowledge and their business. All teaching techniques are taught with the most humane treatment of felines.
Requirements for Testing:
- Purchase of Certification Guidelines
- Purchasing "Learn How To Professionally Groom Cats" manual is highly suggested, but not required.
Written Exams:
Each written exam is $45.00.
If retakes are necessary a charge of $35.00 will apply.
You will have one (1 1/2) hours to complete each test. If more than one (1) exam is being taken at the same testing site, each exam must be turned in prior to starting the next exam.
- Anatomy & Understanding the Feline Body Language
- Feline Medical Conditions & Zoonosis
- Breed Characteristics & Needs
- Humane Feline Handling Techniques/Groomer Safety Procedures
Clinical/ Practical Exams:
Each Exam $45.00
Re-takes are $35.00
1. Bathing and Drying
2. Long or Short Hair Comb-out and Style
3. Standard Lion and/or Modification Styles of the Lion Cut
4. Full Body Clip
Tests consist of:
1. Bathing and Drying Practical Exam:
should demonstrate skills in: Bath, shampoo, temperature of water, type of brushes used and technique, rinse, combing out technique, use and knowledge of dryers, de-matting technique, nail trimming and filing, pads (scissor or clippered), over all use of equipment, ear cleaning and handling of cat and teeth brushing. This may be demonstrated on any of the test cats.
2. Long or Short Hair Comb-out and Style Practical Exam:
includes comb out, face trimming & paw/pad trimming , sanitary, and belly styles
3. Standard Lion Cut and/or Modification Styles of the Lion Cut Practical Exam:
Modification Styles of the Lion Cut will be included in the Breed Characteristics & Needs study guides with full explanation of each. You may choose one (1) of the variations to be tested on.
4. Full Body Clip Practical Exam:
on a cat with Snap-On combs and scissor work
Note:
Sanitary Clips, Belly Smoothies, toe tuft trimming and any mat removal may be completed on either the Long Hair or Short Hair test cat.
All tests will be conducted at the PCGAA Headquarters, your salon, grooming schools and at other locations throughout the year.
A Note about Trade-shows:
Rules and regulations are different at all tradeshows. Their code of conduct must be honored. We will notify you prior to the test date if cats are allowed in the hotel rooms and/or tradeshow. If cats are not permitted at the site, other testing arrangements will be made on an as needed basis). If cats are allowed and you have cats accustomed to your grooming, please feel free to use those cats in your exams. Also, all of the above clinicals can be performed on 1 (one) Persian or Himalayan and 1 (one) short hair cat.
