Certification is optional for buyers and purchasing agents. It is rarely required for employment or advancement. Certification is a sign of experience and good skills.

Several types of certificates are available. They all require passing exams and meeting experience requirements. In private industry, the Certified Purchasing Professionals (CPP) title is offered by the American Purchasing Society.

Buyers who work for the government can become Certified Professional Public Buyers (CPPB) or Certified Public Purchasing Officers (CPPO). This certificate is available from the National Institute of Governmental Purchasing.

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