The Society of Broadcast Engineers

The Association for Broadcast and Multimedia Technology Professionals

Certified Broadcast Technologist (CBT)

CBT Application

The Certified Broadcast Technologist certification can be obtained by meeting one of the following requirements:

  • By achieving a passing grade on the proficiency examination. There is no experience requirement to be eligible for the examination.
  • By holding a valid General Class Radio Telephone license with either two (2) years of continuous satisfactory service in broadcast engineering or related technology prior to the date of application, or a total of three (3) out of the last five (5) years of satisfactory service in broadcast engineering or related technology.
  • By holding a valid FCC Amateur Extra Class license or a Canadian Advanced amateur with either two (2) years of continuous satisfactory service in broadcast engineering or related technology prior to the date of application, or a total of three (3) out of the last five (5) years of satisfactory service in broadcast engineering or related technology.
  • By holding a valid license equivalent to one of the FCC licenses listed above, who meet the service requirement. (NOTE: This provision is for those who live in areas that do not operate under the rules and regulations of the FCC.)

The Certified Broadcast Technologist Exam: Exams are three hours and consist of 50 multiple-choice questions relating to either AM/FM or TV. Each exam is computer-selected from a pool of questions, and every exam is unique. Each correct answer will be worth two (2) points. The Broadcast Technologist multiple choice examination will consist of questions on:

  • electronic fundamentals
  • FCC rules pertaining to operating tolerances
  • safety