To become a Certified and Journeyman beekeeper, participants must take a written and practical examination. The written tests may consist of multiple choice, true/false, short answer, and matching questions. The practical tests contain multiple choice, true/false, and matching questions, but also include identification of hive parts, tools, and diseases/pests of honey bees.
Candidates must receive a 80% or higher on BOTH the practical and written examinations to achieve the next level in the program. Passing candidates will receive their certificate of accomplishment at the respective awards ceremony (Spring or Summer meetings) or by mail.
Generally, the certified test will cover the following subject areas:
- General beekeeping
- Honey bee biology
- Basic bee anatomy
- Honey production and products
- Pests and diseases (common names, causes and treatments)
- Beekeeping equipment use and terminology
- Important historical facts (especially people who contributed to the development of beekeeping).
Journeyman level testing will include all of the apprentice level subjects with the addition of the following:
- Scientific names of pests, diseases and honey bee species
- Pollination
- Native bee information and identification
- Pesticides
- Africanized bees
Be sure to review the materials in the reading list provided.
