> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.uplifter-curling.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# What are volunteer certifications?

> Require a credential for a volunteer role, record who holds it, and how this differs from the staff Certifications catalog.

<Note>
  **Must know**

  * There are two separate certification systems. **Volunteer certifications** live on **Members → Volunteers → Certifications** and are part of Volunteer Management. The **My Organization → Certifications** catalog is for staff and coach credentials, is unrelated to volunteer roles, and is available when a superadmin enables **Certifications** for your club.
  * A role that lists **Required certifications** blocks member sign-up with **Certification required** or **Certification expired**. An admin who assigns the member directly bypasses the check.
  * Expiry is derived from the certification's validity window; you record the issue date only.
</Note>

<Steps>
  <Step title="Create the certification">
    On **Members → Volunteers → Certifications** click **New certification** and enter a **Name** and **Validity (months, blank = no expiry)**. The **Catalog** panel then shows each certification with "\{n} mo validity" or "No expiry", how many members hold it, and how many roles it gates.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Record who holds it">
    Click **Record for member**, pick the member and **Certification**, and enter **Issued**. "Expiry derives from the certification's validity window." The **Member records** panel lists every record.
  </Step>

  <Step title="Require it on a role">
    Edit or create the role and tick it under **Required certifications**.
  </Step>
</Steps>

The staff catalog, by contrast (**My Organization → Certifications**, button **Add Certification**), has a **Renewal Period**, an **Evaluation Method** (Pass/Fail or Point Scale) and **Required For (Scopes)** — Programs and Events. It is assigned from a staff profile and stops an uncertified staff member being assigned to an event or program. Use it for coaches and instructors, not for volunteer roles.

**Related:** [How do I create a volunteer role?](/club/volunteers/how-do-i-create-a-volunteer-role) · [How do I post a volunteer shift?](/club/volunteers/how-do-i-post-a-volunteer-shift) · [What is the Features page?](/club/get-set-up/what-is-the-features-page)


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