When it comes to standing out in the court reporting, captioning, or legal videography professions, few things open doors quite like certifications. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to validate years of experience, NCRA certifications help you showcase your expertise, commitment, and professionalism. In this month’s edition of “Unlocking Your Benefits,” we’ll take a closer look at the certifications we offer and how they can advance your career.
As an NCRA member, you have exclusive access to a nationally recognized certification program designed by professionals, for professionals. With a suite of credentials that span multiple career paths and skill levels, certification is more than a title. It’s a signal to employers, colleagues, and clients that you take your craft seriously.
Why certification matters
NCRA certifications don’t just add letters after your name. They demonstrate:
- Accuracy and skill in real-world settings.
- Commitment to continued education and professional growth.
- Credibility that clients, agencies, and courts recognize and trust.
From entry-level designations to advanced credentials, each step offers measurable value to your career and reputation.
What you can earn
Here’s a quick look at NCRA’s core certification offerings:
Registered Skilled Reporter (RSR)
This entry-level designation helps stenographic professionals validate their beginning level of competency. The RSR tests your ability to write literary, jury charge, and testimony at speeds slightly lower than the RPR. Learn more.
Registered Professional Reporter (RPR)
The foundational certification for stenographic court reporters, the RPR tests your ability in literary, jury charge, and testimony dictation along with a written knowledge exam. Learn more.
Registered Merit Reporter (RMR)
A step up from the RPR, the RMR demonstrates excellence in speed and accuracy. It’s often seen as a marker of advanced experience and skill. It includes a literary, jury charge, and testimony skills exam at high speeds. Learn more.
Certified Realtime Reporter (CRR)
CRR is a highly respected certification that proves your ability and competency to provide accurate realtime. It’s prestigious and often recognized for merit increases. It includes a skills test for competency and accuracy. Learn more.
Certified Realtime Captioner (CRC)
Designed for entry-level captioners who wish to work in the broadcast or CART captioning fields. The CRC shows you can meet the unique demands of captioning in high-pressure, real-time environments. It includes a skills test and a written knowledge exam. Learn more.
Certified Legal Video Specialist (CLVS)
This credential is for those who work in legal videography and courtroom video documentation. It includes specialized education, a written exam, and a hands-on production component. Learn more.
Certified Reporting Instructor (CRI)
The Certified Reporting Instructor program for teachers of court reporting encourages excellence in the educational programs that prepare tomorrow’s court reporters. Get your CRI credential and take advantage of the growing opportunities available to teach court reporting. Learn more.
Registered Diplomate Reporter (RDR)
The highest level of certification offered by NCRA, the RDR demonstrates mastery across the profession and is pursued by experienced reporters seeking leadership roles. It includes a written knowledge exam. Learn more.
Make the most of your member advantage
As a member you receive:
- Discounted pricing on registration for both Skills and Written Knowledge Tests.
- Access to prep resources, including webinars and practice tests via the NCRA Learning Center.
- Credential recognition on your NCRA member profile and in the NCRA PROLink directory.
Whether you’re eyeing your RPR, CRR, CRC, or any of our specialized certifications, now is the time to start planning. Many members say earning a certification boosts their confidence, builds credibility, and leads to new opportunities.
Ready to take the next step?
The next registration window for Online Skills Tests is open August 1–20, 2025, for testing September 1–20. If you’ve been waiting for the right moment, this is it. Your certification journey starts with one decision, and your NCRA membership makes it more accessible than ever.
