The RV Technical Institute’s gold-standard training program develops skilled technicians capable of performing a range of RV repairs. If you’re a discerning RVer who would like more information on the qualifications of RVTI-certified technicians, below is an overview of the curriculum that all RVTI technicians completed before entering the field. 

Background

Established in 2019 by the RV Industry Association and RV Dealers Association, the RV Technical Institute's training program is the only industry-backed training program. This means it offers standardized courses developed by experts from all sectors of the RV industry, including manufacturers, suppliers, dealers, and industry experts. Program participants can choose to learn online or in person. RVTI also provides its attendees with an option to train with Authorized Training Partners (RV dealerships, schools, and public entities who deliver RVTI’s training at the local, regional, or national level). 

Additionally, all of RVTI’s educational materials adhere to national safety standards , as well as RV industry standards. 

Curriculum Overview

• Training Level 1 (Inspection): This first level focuses on the “core systems” of an RV: propane, electrical, plumbing, appliances, body, generator, and chassis. The structure of this level has seven courses, 11 modules, 39 learning outcomes, and 32 practical labs, with a duration of around 32 hours online or 1 week on-site. Once achieved, Level 1 certification is good for life. To become Level 1 certified, trainees must pass written and practical exams, including a pre-delivery inspection. 

   

• Training Level 2 (Diagnostic and Repair): The second level of training focuses on the same seven core systems as Level 1. However, it adds more complex problem-solving to the mix. A student who completes this level can perform basic diagnostics, troubleshooting, and repairs on the seven systems.

   

  Level 2’s structure consists of seven courses, 28 modules, 184 learning outcomes, and 111 labs. The length of this level is around 120 hours for online trainees and three weeks for in-person or twelve weeks for hybrid. To receive a Level 2 certification, a trainee must pass exams at Levels 1 and 2. The certification is valid for five years and can be renewed by completing 24 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) during that time.

   

• Training Level 3 (Specialty): Level 3 training offers supplier training on specific types of components: electrical, chassis, electronics, appliances, and slideouts. Technicians who complete training will have the ability to perform advanced diagnostics, troubleshooting, and repairs on those systems and components. Training for each speciality must be led by supplier vendors (which are part of the Authorized Training Partners mentioned above). 
  
  The required number of training hours to become certified in each specialty is as follows: electrical (24 hours); chassis (15 hours); electronics (15 hours); appliance (24 hours); and slide-out (15 hours). 

   

  To become Level 3 certified, an RV technician must already hold a Level 1 and Level 2 certification, as well as complete the specific number of training hours in their chosen specialty.  Each Level 3  certification is valid for five years. To renew the certification, the technician must complete 24 hours of continuing education credits (CEU). Eight of the 24 hours of CEUs must be directly related to the specialty held. A technician can hold more than one Level 3 certification.

   

• Training Level 4 (Master Technician): The final level of certification is obtained by trainees who have finished all five Level 3 specialties and have an expert-level skill set within the core RV systems: propane, electrical, water, appliances, generators, chassis, and body. The Level 4 Certification is good for 5 years. Over this period, the technician must acquire 24 hours of continuing education credits (CEUs) of approved hands-on or online training. These trainings can include participation at the RV Technical Institute or other industry-approved activities such as curriculum development, train-the-trainer programs, and leadership training. 

   

Final Thoughts

RVTI’s training program is designed to train participants to become experts in every stage of their career as an RV technician. Through its detailed courses, RVTI aims to offer technicians a quality learning experience, empowering them to skillfully repair RVs and get travelers back to enjoying the great outdoors. Your RV is in good hands with technicians who have been certified through this gold-standard curriculum!