To become a Certified Beekeeper, Applicants must:
- Be a member of the NCSBA.
- Pass a Written and Practical examination.
MBP tests can only be administered at sanctioned NCSBA events or by local chapters. There is no charge for taking any test offered by the NCSBA Master Beekeeper Program.
Written Tests
Written tests are offered at the Spring or Summer NCSBA conferences, often preceded by review sessions.
To offer Written tests locally, chapters should contact the MBP committee and request a testing date. A Proctor will be assigned to the test. The Proctor must provide the number of tests needed. Copies of the test will be sent to the Proctor and a test number assigned to the test.
Each individual paper test includes a cover page requesting the following information from the applicant: NCSBA Membership Number, Test Number, Name, Address, Phone Number, Chapter Name, Regional Director, and Proctor.
After testing, the Proctor will be responsible for grading and returning test results to MBP committee.
Certified Practical Tests
The form used for the Practical test is available online.
The Practical test will be up to the Applicant to arrange with the help of their local chapter. Applicants are responsible for their own suit and veil, smoker and hive tool to manipulate the bee hive. They are not required to use their own hives. Applicants should contact their local club for assistance in finding an Examiner to administer the Practical test.
The practical test may be administered by Journeyman, Master or Master Craftsman Beekeepers.
After testing is complete, the Examiner is responsible for returning the form to the MBP Committee.
What Happens Next?
After receipt, test results are entered in the MBP database. A certificate will be generated with the Applicant’s name once both the Written and Practical test results are received. It will then be signed by the NCSBA President and Chairman of the Master Beekeeper Program and mailed to Applicant.
Included with the certificate are a cover letter of congratulations and requirements for advancement to Journeyman Beekeeper.
The integrity of the Master Beekeeper Program is of the most importance to our organization. Your help as a Proctor in this process is a part of being a Master Beekeeper. Your integrity and professional presentation are a representation of what the program is all about. Thank you for your help.
Questions? Email mbp@ncbeekeepers.org.