Exam

The Exam

The California Certified Florist Program, underwritten by CSFA, is a statewide certification program that evaluates and accredits the craftsmanship and professional skill level of florists in California. It is designed to certify a basic level of ability and knowledge that is necessary for personal success in the floral industry. The growing number of certified members form a network of support, ensure professional quality and maintain the standards within the floral industry of California.

Who becomes a California Certified Florist?

Retail Florist shop Owners * Retail Florist Employees * Independent Floral Designers * Free-Lance Designers * Event and Party Designers * AG Educators *Floristry Students

Why become a California Certified Florist (CCF)?

To be classified among the state’s most respected and knowledgeable florists; To develop and maintain industry standards promoting respectability, professionalism and service in our field; For the privilege of using the CCF accreditation and logo in advertising and promotions; To help raise the profile of our profession. Furthermore, CCF is recognized as an important step for designers preparing for AIFD certification.

How to become a California Certified Florist

Applicants may pursue certification independently or be sponsored by an employer. Sponsored participants who attain certification will automatically earn acertificate for their employer. Certification requires passing a written test and hands-on exam.

Upcoming Exams

CCF Hands-On Exam

• Friday, November 8, 2024
• 7:30 am – 1:00 pm
• Cal Expo Sacramento, CA

CCF Online Written Exam

• Thursday, November 21, 2024
• 6:30 pm – 8:30 pm
• Virtual

Registration

Early Registration

• $435 Exam Fee CSFA members
• $535 Exam Fee non-members

Registration rates after 10/15/24

• $475 CSFA Members
• $575 non-Members

Annual CSFA/CCF Dues are required to remain in good standing and retain CCF credentials.

Registration ends 11/4/2024

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

Upcoming Prep Classes

ZOOM Session

• Tuesday, September 24, 2024
• 4 pm – 5 pm

In-Person Hands-On Workshop

• Northern California
  • Friday, 10/04/ 2024
  • 7:30am-1pm
  • Flora Fresh, Inc.
    1127 Fee Dr
    Sacramento, CA 95815

The purpose of these classes is to give applicants and prospective applicants insight into how the exam will be administered, what to study, and what will be expected of them. The demonstration portion of the classes is intended to show applicants the quality of workmanship that the evaluators will be looking for and to give an introduction to the different parts of the exam and the schedule of the exam itself. The practical hands-on portions of the classes are intended to demonstrate the required level of craftsmanship and quality for the hands-on part of the exam. It is expected that the participants have already attained a basic level of knowledge and skill development.

Registration

Early Registration

• $190 CSFA Member
• $240 Non-Member

Registration after 9/9/2024

• $235 CSFA Member
• $315 Non-Member

Registration ends 9/23/24

Registration received in the CSFA Office after 5 pm on 9/09/24 is subject to a $45 increase.

CLICK HERE TO REGISTER

About the Exam

Written Exam:

Flower Identification

• From slide images, participants must write the common name of each and select the correct botanical name from a list. A list of 100 flower and plant names, of which 50 will be used in the test, will be provided upon registration.

Flower and Plant Care and Handling

• This section will be comprised of a combination of short answers, matching and multiple-choice questions.

Floral Design

• This section will be comprised of a combination of short answers, matching and multiple-choice questions on:
  • Design elements and principles
  • Color and light in floral design
  • Floral design concepts and styles
  • Considering the container
  • Techniques and mechanics

Hands-On Exam:

• Flowers to wear (Corsage with demonstration of wiring technique)
• Sympathy Arrangement (Standing Easel)
• Hand-tied Bouquet (Wedding Design)
• Designer’s Choice
• Duplication Design

Judging:

The completed arrangements will be judged according to:

• Design elements and principles
• Color and light in floral design
• Floral design concepts and styles
• Considering the container
• Techniques and mechanics

Download the Judging Worksheet.

The Day of the Exam – What to Bring:

All flowers, greens, containers and supplies needed to complete the required designs will be provided by CCF. Each candidate will receive identical materials.

Please bring your own tools to the exam. A recommended list will be included in the information packet. No dictionaries and/or other written and/or electronic aids are allowed during testing, unless specifically required by a disability.

Results:

The results of your exams will be sent to you by mail just as soon as possible, often 3-5 weeks after the exam. If you have passed the exam, your California Certified Florist Certificate of Distinction will be included.

Disclaimer: Flowers that are left will be donated the following day to the hospital, convalescent home or senior center of the exam committee’s choice.

 Preparing for the Exam

Study Materials:

• Download the CCF ID 100 List with 100 flower names for the Flower Identification Test
• Download the CCF ID Exam Master List with 200+ flower names
• The Art of Floral Design by Norah T. Hunter, Delmar Cengage Learning
• AIFD Guide to Floral Design: Terms, Techniques and Traditions by AIFD
• Principles of Floral Design by Pat Diehl Scace and James DelPrince
• Cut Flowers and Cut Foliage (2 books) By Su Whale
• Buying & Arranging Cut Flowers By Judith Blacklock
• Flower Arranging 2020 Edition By Teresa P Lanker
• CCF Study outline for Applicants