Highway construction projects on the National and State Highway Systems receive federal funding. The funding requires that each state has a program to certify individuals who sample and test materials.
The North Dakota DOT certification program is the Technical Certification Program (TCP) and includes certifications for sampling and testing aggregate, asphalt, concrete, and soils. In addition, this program offers the certifications required for Section 430 Asphalt Paving Projects.
Certifications are obtained by attending a course or series of courses during the fall/winter training season. Courses are scheduled through the TCP website or one of our training partner websites. The NDDOT works with the Dakota Asphalt Pavement Association (DAPA) and the National Centers for Asphalt Technology (NCAT).
For questions or comments contact Technical Certification Program.
Program Resources
The following videos demonstrate materials tests and procedures. Some videos lack audio.
Aggregate Procedures
- UGPTI YouTube playlist
- ND T 27, ND T 11, ND T 113, ND T 176, and ND T 304 are found at this site, as well as a sieve analysis worksheet explanation video for ND T 27.
- Sampling Aggregates
- Reducing Samples of Aggregate to Testing Size
Asphalt Mix Tests
- Asphalt Mix Testing YouTube playlist
- Contractor Coring
- Core frequency and location changed in 2020. The coring process shown is accurate, and the video is useful for instruction.
- Training in Your Pocket (NCAT)
- Variety of videos including balanced mix design tests.
Introduction to Asphalt Course
- Introduction to Asphalt YouTube playlist
- This link will open a playlist of 5 videos. Videos are from prior online courses (2021 - 2022).
Soil Field Testing Course
- Soil Field Testing Course
- This link will open a playlist of 5 videos that provide instructions on the soil tests, test frequency, and specifications. Videos are from prior online Soil Field Testing certification courses.
- UGPTI YouTube playlist of the soil tests ND T 191, ND T 217, ND D 2167, ND D 4363, and ND T 99/180
Worksheet Instruction (For Use in Class)
Certification
- Registry: View and Print a TCP Certification
- Select Temporary or 5-year.
- DOT Examiner List
FAQs
Individuals sampling or testing materials for acceptance on the National Highway System (NHS) or state highway system must be certified.
Certification for Section 430 QC/QA projects is specified for inspection, mix design, and mix control.
Certification as an Aggregate Sampler is offered for individuals who sample but do not test.
A certification listed as 2027 expires 12/31/2027 and is due for renewal during the 2027-2028 certification season.
If a project is in city limits, and is a route designated on the National Highway System the requirements for certification apply.
County projects do not fall under the scope of the Technical Certification Program. However, a county project may have federal funding that requires material testing. Counties may also elect to require certification.
Reciprocity (acceptance of other state certifications) is allowed for some certifications.
Certifications must be closely similar and current in the originating state. Each request is reviewed and then verified with the originating state.
The form to request reciprocity is found at this link.
It is the responsibility of the individual to maintain their certifications. If a certification has expired, you are required to repeat the classes.