The National Marine Electronics Association’s Certified Marine Electronics Technician (CMET) program began in the 1980’s.  It’s main goal is to elevate the best and brightest marine electronic technicians in the industry.  Ultimately assure the boat owner that they have received the highest quality of design, installation and service. It was the vision of Don Berryberry who coined the term CMET and envisioned a gold bar standard for the professional marine dealer. 

The 2011 CMET Certification program tests the knowledge base and experience of the marine electronic professional.  The test includes a variety of questions from the Federal Communication Commission General Radio Operators License to the NMEA Installation Standard.  The CMET program is the pre-eminent certification program in the marine industry. The marine electronic technician who has been tested, passed and awarded the CMET certificate:

• shows to have acquired the knowledge base to diagnosis the most significant  marine electronic issues on board
• exhibits the ability and knowledge to solve most marine electronic issues on board with effective and efficient trouble shooting
• demonstrates an ability to design an integrated marine electronic system
• provides the highest level of professional service

Achieving CMET recognition is no easy task.  It requires in-depth knowledge of theory, practical experience on a vessel and a high level of professionalism.

In general, there is no prequalification required.  However, it is still required for resident United States applications to have their FCC GROL license until further notice.

It is expected that a CMET Applicants should posses a general set of qualifications as below:

CMET is a Marine Electronic Generalist of highest grade and should at a minimum be able to perform the   following:

• Design a marine electronics integrated system with proper installation
• Verify proper installation
• Identify the source of a marine electronics product problem
• Troubleshoot and repair over a wide range of disciplines
• Analyze marine electronics systems conflicts
• Demonstrate Professional Customer service skills
• Understand where to get additional expert support from OEM venders and other industry sources when appropriate
• Ability to provide proper documentation
• Able to install marine electronics utilizing the NMEA Installation Standard.  This person is a technician as opposed to an installed.
• Must be knowledgeable in maritime rules and regulations
• Technically competent to pass the GROL or equivalent exam
• Should own the proper tools to perform all of the requirements to analyze and trouble shoot marine electronics systems

WHAT IS DIFFERENT FROM PREVIOUS CMET

1. The requirement to hold an FCC GROL license has been eliminated for the NMEA CMET for all international applicants.  It is still required for United States applicants until further notice.

2. Advanced CMET, Senior CMET and Lifetime CMET are still in effect but will not be offered in the future.

3. No prior marine dealer or industry work experience is required

4. Renewals are required except for Lifetime CMETS.

Download the CMET Renewal Form