Certifications are given out by the National Association of Rocketry (NAR) and the Tripoli Rocketry Association (TRA). There are 3 levels available, and each allows you to purchase higher-impulse rocket motors. For all certification levels, the rocket must be built by the flier. There are also restrictions on pre-built fin cans, etc. In order to get certified, you must be a member of the organization you are being certified for. (NAR is less focused on HPR, but NAR clubs are more widespread and commonly hosting launches. Sometimes you see NAR/TRA joint launches as well.)
| Certification | Additional Impulse classes available for purchase | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| None | 1/4A - most G (some F & G motors are high-power and require L1) | |
| Level 1 | H, I | |
| Level 2 | J, K, L | |
| Level 3 | M, N, O |
The certification processes are very similar for Level 1 and 2 between NAR and TRA. For Level 1, the flier must build a rocket for an H or I motor and fill out a short application. Two Level 1 fliers or a single Level 2 or 3 flier must witness the flight and will sign the application if it is sucessful. For Level 2, the applicant fills out a second form, and takes a test on the safety code, rocket building, and rocket flight. The rocket for L2 can be the same as L1, but it's usually better to build a new one or build some rockets between L1 and L2 to gain some experience. This flight must be signed off by a single Level 2 or 3 flier.
Level 3 is more extensive. The flier must follow a stricter set of guidelines for the build, requires upper-level members of NAR/TRA to witness portions of the rocket build, and a technical report on the rocket. Construction of the rocket can not start until the flier has attained Level 2 and contacted his certification board.
More information on the certification processes are at these links: