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Technical Certification Program

Course materials will be provided in class

Aggregate Production Tester Certification (APTC)

Prerequisites for certification

  • No other certifications are required before this course, although field experience is recommended.

Expiration and recertification options

  • This certification does not expire. No recertification is required.

Class logistics

  • Learning mode: In person for classroom and lab
  • If you need to register: Learn about the certification process and then register for the class.
  • Logistics: See the Registration Confirmation and Class Reminder emails from Lake Superior College for class dates, time, location, and directions. Time will be provided for on- or off-site lunch. No meals or beverages will be provided.
  • Learning differences and accommodations: If you have a disability or learning issue, either permanent or temporary, which might affect your ability to perform in a class, the online exam, or the performance exam, contact Suzanne Johnsrud, 218-428-1002, to discuss possible accommodations.
  • Summary: APT Certification Summary (PDF)
  • Professional development hours (PDHs): 18
  • Lake Superior College course credits possible: 1 (you must complete an LSC course credit form)

What to bring to class

Hard copies of all course materials will be provided in class

Reference books/manuals to bring (hard copy or electronic)  

  • None

Also bring to class

  • Calculator
  • Paper and pencil/pen
  • Laptop/tablet (recommended)
  • Face mask (for health and safety, if needed)
  • Lunch and beverages to eat/drink if you plan on site  
  • Hard toed shoes and other safety gear for lab (recommended)

About the certification exams

Written exam process

  • You will have 120 minutes to complete the 60 question written exam online.
  • You must score 70% or higher to pass; if you score 60-69%, you may request a retest.
  • The exam will open for you at the end of the last day of class.
  • You must complete the exam within one week after it is open for you, meaning the same day the following week.
  • Find your exam to take it once it is open for you.

Written exam topics (approximate percentage of exam)

  • Section 1: Technical Certification Program (4% - 2 questions)
  • Section 2: Minnesota Roadways and Materials Testing (8% - 4 questions)
  • Section 3: Essential Knowledge and Skills (6% - 3 questions)
  • Section 4: MnDOT Resources and Processes (12% - 6 questions)
  • Section 5: Background Information about Aggregates (20% - 10 questions)
  • Section 6: Aggregate Sampling and Reduction (20% - 10 questions)
  • Section 7: Aggregate Gradation through Sieve Analysis (30% - 15 questions)

Materials allowed during the written exam

This is an open book exam. You may use the training manual and all other course materials during the exam. A calculator is provided within the online exam.

Performance exam

  • You will complete a performance exam on the second day of class.
  • The certification will not be awarded until the performance exam is complete and recorded.