Must-Have Certifications for Solar Jobs in the US in 2025
Introduction
Dreaming of a job where you can work with your hands, enjoy the sunshine, and build a solid future? Solar energy is booming in the southwest US—Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas—and it’s a perfect time to jump in. If you’re new to the trades and eyeing entry-level solar gigs like installing panels or helping on sites, you’re probably wondering: What certifications do I need to get started?
We’ve done the legwork for you, scouring job boards like Indeed, union sites like the International Brotherhood of Electrical Workers (IBEW), and industry reports to pinpoint what employers want. In this report, we’ll show you the top certifications, how often they pop up (with percentage guesses), and which ones you can grab online—because who’s got time for extra travel? You expected OSHA 10 to lead the pack, and it does, but there’s more to the story. Let’s get you ready to power up your career!
Methodology
We zeroed in on entry-level solar jobs—think installers, apprentices, and technicians—in Arizona, New Mexico, Oklahoma, and Texas. We checked out postings on Indeed and union pages, plus insights from groups like the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA). Since we didn’t tally every single ad, we estimated how common each certification is based on trends, state rules, and solar industry vibes. Our mission? Give you a straightforward roadmap to kick off your solar journey, no fancy degree required.
Findings: Certifications Required for Entry-Level Solar Jobs
OSHA 10: The Safety Must-Have
First up, OSHA 10. This 10-hour course from the Occupational Safety and Health Administration teaches you how to stay safe on the job—spotting risks like falls, electrical zaps, and tool mishaps. Solar work often means rooftops and construction zones, so it’s a big deal.
- Prevalence: We figure OSHA 10 shows up in 70-80% of entry-level solar job postings across the southwest. Listings on Indeed often demand it for roles like “Solar Installer” or “Apprentice,” especially with bigger outfits or union crews. It’s the safety baseline employers can’t skip.
- Why It Matters: Bosses want you safe (and out of legal trouble). It’s quick, cheap, and you can do it online. You’ll walk away with a card that says, “I’ve got this.”
- Online Option: Totally online! Takes 10 hours, costs $60, and ships you a wallet-sized DOL card.
NABCEP PV Associate: Your Solar Edge
Next, the NABCEP PV Associate Certification from the North American Board of Certified Energy Practitioners. It’s a beginner credential that proves you get solar photovoltaic (PV) systems—how they’re built, installed, and maintained. Not every job demands it, but it’s a standout.
- Prevalence: We estimate 20-30% of postings either require or favor it. You’ll see it in ads from companies like Sunrun or local firms in Texas and Arizona, tagged as “preferred” for installers. Solar Energy International (SEI) (NABCEP Training) calls it the “gold standard” for newbies, and we agree—it’s trending up.
- Why It Matters: It’s like a VIP pass—shows you’re serious about solar and not just there for the paycheck. Plus, it sets you up for bigger certifications down the road.
- Online Option: Yes! SEI’s online courses (like PVOL101) prep you for the exam, which you can take online with a proctor or at a center. Plan on 40-58 hours of study, depending on your pace.
CPR/First Aid: Ready for the Unexpected
Solar jobs can get wild—think heights, wires, and heat. CPR/First Aid certification teaches you to handle emergencies, from minor cuts to serious stuff like heart issues.
- Prevalence: Appears in 15-25% of postings, especially for outdoor or riskier gigs. It’s bigger in states like New Mexico, where safety’s a hot topic, but not as universal as OSHA 10.
- Why It Matters: It’s peace of mind for you and your crew. Employers dig it because it shows you’re prepared, not panicked.
- Online Option: Mostly online—do the lessons through places like the Red Cross, then pop in for a quick hands-on test. Takes a few hours, costs $30-$50.
Driver’s License: Hit the Road
Solar work isn’t stuck in one spot—you might be on a roof in Phoenix one day, a field in Oklahoma the next. A driver’s license isn’t a “cert” in the classic sense, but it’s a gotta-have for many jobs.
- Prevalence: Shows up in 50-60% of postings, especially for field installers or techs. It’s less about skill and more about getting you to the action.
- Why It Matters: No ride, no job. If you’ve got it, great; if not, it’s an easy fix at your DMV.
- Online Option: Not really—study for the written part online, but you’ll need to test in person.
Other Certs: Bonus Points
There’s also stuff like Photovoltaic System Installation (PVSI) from UL or generic Solar PV Certification. These zoom in on solar skills but aren’t huge for beginners.
- Prevalence: Less than 10% of entry-level postings call for them. They’re more for electricians crossing over or later-stage roles.
- Why It Matters: Nice to have if a job asks, but not your first move.
- Online Option: PVSI has some online training via UL Knowledge Services—check details. Solar PV depends on the provider.
Prevalence Table
Here’s how often these show up in southwest solar job ads:
| Certification | Estimated Prevalence | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| OSHA 10 | 70-80% | Safety’s king—most jobs need it, all online. |
| NABCEP PV Associate | 20-30% | Solar know-how that pops, online training rocks. |
| CPR/First Aid | 15-25% | Emergency-ready, mostly online with a quick check. |
| Driver’s License | 50-60% | Gotta roll to the site—super common. |
| Other (PVSI, Solar PV) | <10% | Rare for starters, some online bits available. |
Discussion: Why These Certifications Matter
OSHA 10’s the champ—solar’s hands-on, and employers won’t mess around with safety. The OSHA doc says it’s about dodging hazards, and with solar’s rooftop and wire work, that’s clutch. Online access makes it a slam dunk.
NABCEP PV Associate isn’t everywhere, but it’s your ticket to shine. The BLS (Solar PV Installers) predicts 22% job growth by 2033—way above average—so extra cred helps you stand out. SEI’s online courses fit your life, no excuses.
CPR/First Aid and a driver’s license are real-world wins. Solar’s physical, and being able to drive or step up in a pinch keeps you in play. Those niche certs? Hold off unless a job screams for them—you’ve got enough to start strong.
Recommendations for Aspiring Solar Workers
Here’s your game plan, plain and simple:
Snag OSHA 10:
- Jump on OSHA 10, pick the Construction course, and finish it online in a weekend. Cheap, fast, and unlocks most jobs.
Chase NABCEP PV Associate:
- Hit up Solar Energy International for courses like PVOL101. Study online, ace the exam (proctored or local), and you’re solar-ready. Takes a bit, but it’s worth it.
Pick Up CPR/First Aid:
- Try the Red Cross for online lessons, then do a quick in-person check. Small effort, big backup for on-site surprises.
Lock Down a Driver’s License:
- Got it? Cool. Need it? Check your DMV’s site, prep online, and get rolling. It’s a must for site-hopping.
Jump into an Apprenticeship:
- Team up with IBEW or outfits like IEC (IEC Apprenticeship) for paid training. They often toss in OSHA 10 and more while you learn the ropes.
Explore Opportunities with Tradez
Ready to roll? Check our Jobs Board at https://thetradez.com/jobs—over 10,000 skilled trades gigs refreshed daily, matched to you. Then, hit https://thetradez.com/certifications for OSHA 10, NABCEP prep, and more—built to get you hired quick. Join Tradez and turn sunlight into cash!
Conclusion
Solar’s your shot at a hot career in the southwest US—jobs are growing, and you can start without years of school. OSHA 10 (70-80% of postings) is your entry key, easy online, and keeps you safe. NABCEP PV Associate (20-30%) boosts your solar cred, also online-friendly. Add CPR/First Aid (15-25%) and a driver’s license (50-60%), and you’re golden. Grab these, hook into an apprenticeship, and you’ll be powering up homes fast. The trades need you—get certified and light the way!