Resume Certifications & Licenses Listing Example and Guide

Quick Overview

Many professionals make a mistake of focusing on experience and education only. As a result, they disregard any additional information, such as certifications they have in their field, that would enhance their qualifications and assure that they stand out from the competition.

Any professional certifications and licenses that impact your career and your ability to do your job should be listed on your resume. This concept is straight forward for those professionals who cannot actually perform their jobs without having a license to do so.

This is the case for teachers, counselor, accountant, real estate agents, medical professionals etc. If you are in a profession that requires specific certifications and/or licenses, your resume should contain a section specific to this information. You should list any certifications and licenses that you have acquired in reverse chronological order.

The heading should state:

• Licenses and Certifications
• or Professional Licenses
• or Professional Certifications

Listing Examples

• Chartered Financial Analyst (CFA), (2008)
• Certified Public Accountant (CPA), (2005)

The following is an example of licenses and certificates section in resume format.

However, it is a lot harder to consider this information and include it on your resume if your professional field does not require any certifications or licenses. For example, having a certificate from a seminar on managing multiple projects may not be required in order for you to do your job effectively. However, such a certificate can be very helpful in virtually any field, and if included on your resume, it can help you stand out from the crowd of available professionals and catch the employer’s attention.

How to List Licenses and Certifications?

Make the list of licenses and certifications as you do your professional experience; make a list, in reverse chronological order, and consider which of the items you listed are relevant to your professional goals. Your resume should have no more than five most recent certifications and licenses. List the date when the certificate or license was obtained; if you took a course over time, for example, indicate the completion date in form of month and year only. The exact name of the certificate or the license should be listed, along with an issuing organization. No additional information is necessary for this area of your resume. Additionally, make sure to highlight any certification and licenses in the cover letter if they promote your qualifications for the job you are seeking.

What to Do if I Have Many Licenses?

If the listing of licenses or certifications is lengthy, you can include this information on a separate sheet of paper. You should always list a few most recent items; however if the listing exceeds five items, let the potential employer know that additional information is available upon request. Your resume or your cover letter can point out this information, as well as highlight only those elements that promote you as the best candidate for the job.

Related Useful Resume Resources

• Chronological Resume – Find out what is a Chronological Resume including sample and template.
• Functional Resume – See what is a Functional Resume with downloadable sample, template and example.
• Resume Writing Software Reviews – Find out what is top rating Resume Writing Software programs as well as what is the most favorite one for other people.

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