Category I CECH (minimum of 45)

Refers to CECH opportunities that relate to one or more of the Areas of Responsibility. These are activities preapproved by NCHEC (offered by designated providers.) You need at least 45 Category I CECH to recertify. However, you can complete all 75 CECH in this category. Category I credits are reported for you by the provider on a quarterly basis. There is no need to submit anything to NCHEC for Category I CECH. You can find a list of Category I events/courses on the NCHEC website.

Category II CECH (optional, maximum of 30)

Refers to opportunities that relate to one or more of the Areas of Responsibility, but have not been preapproved by NCHEC (offered by non-designated providers). You can claim a maximum of 30 Category II credits in your 5-year recertification cycle. You can find a complete list of activities that are eligible for Category II credits in the Policies and Procedures Handbook beginning on page 9. The Category II claim form is available through your online portal. It is an easy way to submit your Category II credits for review.

Continuing Competency Credits

 CHES® must complete 5 CECH of a “Continuing Competency Assessment,” as part of the total 75 CECH for recertification, which includes either:

1. A work performance assessment by a supervisor/ client (Category II). (I strongly encourage folks to complete the Category II performance assessment – there is no cost, and it can relate to the work you are currently doing in the field.) To read more about Continuing Competency and the performance assessment, go to the NCHEC website here.
2. A Category I continuing education activity that is pre-approved for Continuing Competency. To locate Category I Continuing Competency activities, use the search tool on our Credit Activities Page and make sure the box for Continuing Competency is checked.