Certified Landscape Specialist Training

Renewal and provisional certifications are available for 2025.

Certification/recertification courses

MnDOT Standard Specifications for Plant Installation (2571) requires landscape contractors performing work in MnDOT right of way have a Certified Landscape Specialist on the project site at all times to perform or directly supervise plant installation and establishment. Other government agencies may also require this certification. It is recommended that MnDOT and other agency or consultant inspectors become Certified Landscape Specialists when assigned landscape construction projects to help assure compliance of Spec 2571. Certification is achieved by participating in MnDOT classes and successfully passing MnDOT’s certification exam. Certification is valid for three years.

2025 MnDOT Certified Landscape Specialist Training Classes

New certification

For those seeking to be certified for the first time, it is required to attend an in-person class. Unfortunately our classes are full for this year. You may take the E-learning course for a provisional certification that is valid until April 30, 2026. To obtain a 3-year certification, you will need to attend an in-person class in the winter of 2026. Provisional certifications can not be renewed.

The cost for certification is $40.

Class dates for 2026 - Registration will open in November

Jan. 28, 2026: Shoreview Training Center, 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., lunch included
Feb.11, 2026: Shoreview Training Center, 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., lunch included
Feb. 25, 2065: St. Cloud Training Center, 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m., lunch included
E-Learning for renewals will be available after February 1. Materials will be sent at that time

Recertification

Those seeking to renew their certification may attend an in-person class or complete the series of E-learning modules and successfully pass an online exam. Recertification is for three years. The cost is $40.

Registration

Registration for the in-person and E-Learning classes is available. Please use the online form if you would like to pay electronically. Payments may be made by checking/savings or credit/debit card (American Express, Discover, MasterCard and VISA).

Please note: US Bank charges a separate service fee for all credit/debit card transactions. No service fee will apply to electronic check.

You may also download the registration form and send it along with a check. Please follow the form for mailing instructions.

MnDOT employees may register themselves by emailing this form to Michelle Huettl. There is no fee for employees.