RCDD ®

Certification
Handbook

Version 15
Applications submitted after 1 July 2024
 Congratulations on your decision and commitment
to become an RCDD. You are on your way to earning
an information and communications technology
(ICT) design certification that is globally recognized
and highly respected in the industry.
Dedicated ICT professionals such as yourself recognize and understand that
holding a BICSI credential makes a difference in your career and the ICT industry.
After earning the Registered Communications Distribution Designer® (RCDD®)
credential, you will be recognized as an elite professional, knowledgeable
and experienced in leading-edge ICT design principles. We appreciate your
professional commitment in demonstrating the highest, global standard by
acquiring an RCDD certification.

We develop and deliver the highest-quality credentialing programs

that validate mastery in the field of ICT and contribute to the continued
improvement of individual and organizational performance. We work closely
with ICT professionals around the world to ensure that our programs are up to
date and relevant for today’s competitive business environments.

This handbook provides an overview of the RCDD credential, including eligibility

and recertification requirements. You will find detailed information to help
guide you through the entire certification process.

We wish you much success,

David M. Richards, RCDD, NTS, OSP, TECH, CT

BICSI Board President

John H. Daniels, CNM, FACHE, FHIMSS, CPHIMS

BICSI Chief Executive Officer
For more information:
bicsi.org/credentialing

Questions:
Phone: +1 813.979.1991 or 800.242.7405
(USA & Canada toll-free)
Email: [email protected]

Page 2
Table of Contents
BICSI Core Values...................................................4 Phase 4: Test..................................................... 19-21
About the RCDD Credential...............................5-7 Request for Special Accommodations.....................19
RCDD Definition........................................................................... 5 Appeal of Denial of Request
What You Need to Know About the RCDD for Special Accommodations.........................................19
Credential....................................................................................... 6 How to Schedule.......................................................................19
RCDD Credentialing Process Overview...................... 6 Rescheduling or Cancellation Policy..........................19
Exam Delivery Statement.....................................................7 Exam Fee........................................................................................19
Non-Discrimination Policy...................................................7 Exam Identification & Conduct Requirements...20
Sanctioned Countries.............................................................7 Confidentiality............................................................................21
Contact Information................................................................7 Passing Score.............................................................................21
Name, Address, and Email Information......................7 Results..............................................................................................21
Retest Information...................................................................21
RCDD Credentialing Process......................... 8-24 Comments....................................................................................21
The Five Phases.......................................................................... 8 Phase 5: Recertify.......................................... 22-24
Scope of a Registered Communications Status Definitions................................................................... 22
Distribution Designer (RCDD)........................................... 8 RCDD Credential Registration Period....................... 22
Phase 1: Decide................................................... 9-11 Recertification Requirements........................................ 22
Eligibility Requirements......................................................... 9 Recertification Fees............................................................. 23
Definitions and Examples...................................................10 Recertification Audit............................................................ 24
Reasons to Become an RCDD.........................................10
RCDD Bid Requirements....................................................... 11 After Becoming an RCDD.............................. 25-26
GI Bill Information...................................................................... 11 Use of the Designation...................................................... 25
U.S. Military Financial Assistance Program.............. 11 Digital Credential.................................................................. 25
Phase 2: Prepare.............................................. 12-16 RCDD Stamp............................................................................. 25
RCDD V15 Exam Blueprint.............................................12-16 Credential Verification...................................................... 25
Exam Copyright.........................................................................16 Records Retention................................................................ 25
Suggested Study......................................................................16 Recertification Suspension Policy.............................. 26
Exam Specifics...........................................................................16 Reinstatement Policy for Lapsed
Phase 3: Apply.................................................. 17-18 Credential Holders.................................................................26
Application Process................................................................ 17
Application Processing........................................................ 17 General Policies and Procedures.................27-28
Fees.................................................................................................... 17 Code of Ethics........................................................................... 27
Payment Methods................................................................... 17 Professional Obligations................................................... 27
Incomplete Applications.....................................................18 BICSI Credential's Appeal Process............................ 28
Application Denials.................................................................18 Appeals Panel............................................................................28
Refund Policy...............................................................................18 Antitrust Statement......................................... Back Cover
Legal Name..................................................................................18
Eligibility Dates...........................................................................18
Waiting Period............................................................................18
Terms and Conditions..........................................................18

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 BICSI CORE VALUES

BICSI is a professional association supporting the advancement of the ICT profession and
currently serves more than 26,000 members and credential holders. BICSI is the preeminent
resource for the Connected World. Headquartered in Tampa, Florida, USA, BICSI membership
spans nearly 100 countries.

Integrity • Service • Excellence

Integrity is defined as the quality of being honest • 
Self-control: We do not behave in a way that
and having strong moral principles and moral would discredit ourselves, our association, or
uprightness. Integrity defines who we are as a the ICT profession.
professional association. Some of the moral
principles include traits such as courage, honesty, • 
Loyalty: We are faithful to our BICSI
responsibility, accountability, openness, self-respect, commitments and voluntary obligations.
and humility. Integrity is also defined as the state of
• 
Inclusion: We all help create an environment
being whole and undivided. BICSI staff, volunteers,
free of fear, discrimination, harassment,
members, credential holders, affiliates, and all other
intimidation, or unfair treatment.
stakeholders must strive to do the right thing for the
organization, even when no one is looking. Integrity is
first because it is critical to BICSI’s success, “… just as Excellence defines how BICSI strives to do everything
strong beams are critical to a house. If the beams it does, from beginning to end and everywhere in
are not whole, sound, or complete, if rotten is mixed between. BICSI staff, volunteers, members, credential
with good, if termites have eaten the insides, then holders, affiliates, and all other stakeholders all have
individual beams will break under stress; beams will a role in ensuring BICSI provides the highest quality
fail in their relationship to other beams; nails will training and education, maintains highly credible
pull out and the house will fall.”1 credentialing programs, provides highly valued
membership programs that meet member needs,
Service to the profession is important. However, BICSI and provides responsive customer care that exceeds
takes it one step further by encouraging service service expectations. No matter what role we have,
before or above self because it reminds us that we we are all responsible for doing our personal best
are all part of something bigger than ourselves, and and providing a good example to others.
that is the BICSI mission. It defines what we do as a
professional association. BICSI staff, volunteers, BICSI will make integrity a daily practice through
members, credential holders, affiliates, and all service above self, underpinned by excellence in
other stakeholders demonstrate the following everything we do to advance the information and
attributes, among others: communications technology (ICT) profession.

• 
Stewardship: We plan and manage the 1
Vriesenga, M. P., Maj. (n.d.). Thinking about Core Values [Scholarly
project]. Retrieved November 13, 2020, from https://www.airuniversity.
resources entrusted to us with great care af.edu/Portals/10/ASPJ/journals/Chronicles/michaelv.pdf
and responsibility.

• 
Self-discipline: We adhere to policies and
procedures such as the BICSI Code of Ethics/
Professional Obligations.

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 ABOUT THE RCDD CREDENTIAL

ICT encompasses the design, management, BICSI established its credential programs to provide
integration, and installation of pathways, spaces, a level of assurance to the industry and to
optical fiber- and copper-based distribution consumers that an individual has knowledge in a
systems, wireless-based systems, and designated area of ICT design or installation. Our
infrastructure that supports the transportation of professional designations are valued globally and
information and associated signaling between and are recognized throughout the ICT industry.
among communications and information-
gathering devices. Established in 1984, the RCDD is the gold standard of
all BICSI credentials. Those who achieve the RCDD
Through courses, conferences, publications, and designation have demonstrated their knowledge in
professional credentialing programs, BICSI staff and the creation, planning, integration, execution, and/
volunteers assist ICT professionals in delivering or detail-oriented project management of
critical products and services and offer telecommunications and data communications
opportunities for continual improvement and technology.
enhanced professional stature.

RCDD Definition
ICT Distribution Design is the creation, planning, integration, execution, and/or detail-
oriented project management of information and communications technology.

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 ABOUT BICSI AND THE RCDD CREDENTIAL

What You Need to Know About the RCDD Credential

Pinnacle designation in the ICT field Enhances credibility

Recognized by the ICT community and employers Recognized globally

Required in bids and job requirements Built with your career in mind

Uses the latest technologies, methods, and best practices Meets the highest standards

Opens doors and new opportunities for career growth

RCDD CREDENTIALING PROCESS OVERVIEW

Application Submission Application Approval Exam Eligibility

Approval can take up to 30 You have one year from the
days. approval date to test for
the RCDD.

Credential Credential Certification Cycle

Recertification Maintenance Your certification cycle
You can complete the You are required to earn begins the day you pass
recertification process 45 approved CECs and one the exam.
once you have met all the qualifying conference credit
recertification requirements. (conference CECs are included
in the total) to recertify.

Credential Suspension Credential Expiration

Occurs 90 days after the Occurs one year after
credential expiration date your expiration date
if you have not fulfilled the if your recertification
recertification requirements. requirements
Credential is inactive have not been met.
and you are unable to use it.

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 ABOUT BICSI AND THE RCDD CREDENTIAL

Exam Delivery Statement

Pearson VUE is the exam delivery provider of BICSI exams. Pearson VUE is the world’s
largest learning company with more than 35,000 employees working across the
globe. They are the leader in computer-based testing, with testing centers
located globally.

Non-Discrimination Policy
It is the policy of BICSI and Pearson VUE that no individual shall be excluded from
the opportunity to participate in the BICSI RCDD Credentialing Program on the
basis of gender, ethnic origin, national origin, religion, age, or disability.

Sanctioned Countries
BICSI is committed to conducting business in compliance with the U.S. State
Department of Foreign Assets Control (OFAC) Sanctions Programs and Country
Information and the Specially Designated Nationals (SDNs) and Blocked Persons
List. This includes any individual with a residence or a nationality of Iran, Syria,
Crimea, Cuba, or North Korea.

Individuals who present approved candidate identification during the admissions

process showing a non-sanctioned country permanent residence may test and
receive certifications. For more information, click here.

Contact Information
All questions and requests for information about the BICSI RCDD Credentialing
Program should be directed to:
BICSI, 8610 Hidden River Pkwy., Tampa, Florida 33637
Phone: +1 813.979.1991 or 800.242.7405 (USA & Canada toll-free)
Email: [email protected]

All questions and requests for information about exam scheduling should be
directed to:
Pearson VUE, 5601 Green Valley Dr., Bloomington, Minnesota 55437
Phone: 866.904.4432 (USA & Canada toll-free)
Web: pearsonvue.com/bicsi

Name, Address, and Email Information

BICSI will send you important information through email and text. It is your
responsibility to keep the contact information on your online BICSI Profile at
bicsi.org current and up to date.

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 RCDD Credentialing Process

THE FIVE PHASES

Decide Prepare Apply Test Recertify

Scope of a Registered Communications Distribution Designer (RCDD)

The RCDD designs communications distribution systems, supervises the execution of the design,
coordinates activities with the design team, and assesses the overall quality of the completed
communications distribution system that supports ICT solutions.
Definitions
Design is the definition of requirements, creation, planning, and production of drawings and
documentation to show the look and function of ICT systems.
Supervision is the observation and monitoring of the execution of a communications distribution
system design throughout the implementation process.
Coordination is interfacing with multiple vendors, trades, design teams, and/or stakeholders to
effectively satisfy the requirements of the design.
Assessing is verifying the quality and completion of the communications distribution systems
installation in accordance with the requirements and intent of the design.

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PHASE 1: DECIDE Option #3 - Definitions and Examples of ICT
Experience
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the ICT experience encompasses the design,
management, integration, and installation of
following eligibility options in order to pathways, spaces, optical fiber and copper-based
apply for the RCDD certification exam. distribution systems, wireless-based systems, and
infrastructure that supports the transportation of
Option #1: information and associated signaling between and
Two years of verifiable full-time work among communications and information-gathering
experience in ICT design AND a current devices.
BICSI certification holder as BICSI ICT-related work experience includes three or more
TECH™, RTPM®, DCDC®, or OSP™. the following examples:

Option #2: • ICT job foreman

Two years of verifiable full-time • Lead technician
equivalent work experience in ICT design • ICT project manager
AND completion of two years of higher
education course work in ICT. Two years • ICT installation trainer
of higher education course work in ICT • Technician hands-on experience
may include: • ICT installation field experience
• STEM or trade school • Laying out telecommunication spaces
• Two-year degree
• Laying out pathways
• ICT and industry-related programs,
apprenticeships, or certifications • Working with ICT designs
• Military training equivalent • Calculating distances and/or loss
Evidence of completion of higher o Cable distances
education course work includes: o Cable pathway capacity
• Certificates o Penetration capacity
• Diplomas o Backboard/rack space
• Registrar’s documentation
o Optical fiber loss
• Other bona fide documents
• Reviewing and understanding ICT test results
Option #3: • Applying ICT standards and codes
Five years of verifiable ICT experience.
• ICT quality assurance and control
• Reviewing and understanding ICT-related drawings
• Intelligent building installation
o AV
o Security
o Lighting
o BMS/BAS
o Access control
o Fire alarm
• Specifying bill of materials (BOMs)
• Writing and responding to ICT specifications
equivalent

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 RCDD CREDENTIALING PROCESS

Definitions and Examples

ICT design-related work experience includes the
following:
• User requirements and needs analysis
• Site surveys
• Operational requirements, schematics, or At several points in my career, the
conceptual drawings RCDD has been a requirement for
• Coordinate with architects, professional the position. With this designation, I
engineers (PEs), authorities having jurisdiction am immediately brought to the top
(AHJs), vendors, trades, design teams, and/or of the list of potential candidates.
stakeholders
• Review and comply with standards, codes, – Bob Ellis, RCDD, DCDC,
and AHJ requirements Project Design Engineer,
• Review and/or creation of: Johnson Controls, Inc. –
• Request for proposal (RFP) Building Wide Systems Integration,
• Request for qualification (RFQ) Townsend, Massachusetts, USA
• Scope of work (SOW)
• Detailed design, specifications, and
drawings including:
• Structured cabling systems and pathways
• Rack positioning and layout drawings
• Grounding and bonding systems Examples of ICT degree or course work could include,
• Telecommunications spaces but are not limited to:
• Project documents, including but not limited to: • Electrical
• Design drawings • Engineering technology
• Project specifications • Computer science
• Bill of materials • Telecommunications
• Bid documents and pricing • Information systems
• Record drawings (as-builts) • Network systems
• Automation and electronic systems
• Support and assess the installation process
• Network and communications management
• Management/technical management with
Evidence of completion of higher education course specialization in information technology
work includes:
• Security systems
• Certificates
• Diplomas Any submitted degree or education course work will be
• Registrar’s documentation evaluated and qualified against the job task analysis
• Other bona fide documents for relevancy.

Reasons to Become an RCDD

Positive impact on professional image Higher salary possibilities

Recognized by the ICT community Expands ICT career field

New job and promotion opportunities

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 RCDD CREDENTIALING PROCESS

RCDD Bid Requirements

You can expect an RCDD to follow current
standards and best practices for improved quality
and performance, including standards established
and/or contributed to by: BICSI, I honestly don’t know where I would
Telecommunications Industry Association (TIA),
American National Standards Institute (ANSI), be today had I never discovered BICSI
National Electrical Contractors Association (NECA), or taken advantage of all the training
American Institute of Architects (AIA), and classes and certifications, especially
Construction Specifications Institute (CSI). the RCDD. Thanks to BICSI, my
family and I can relax and enjoy my
RCDDs are required to demonstrate proficiency
across a wide range of areas within structured retirement and financial security.
cabling systems, including network, outside plant,
wireless, and electronic safety and security design,
data centers, and building automation systems
(BAS). This expanded knowledge enables the
RCDD to advise the owner/end user of the – Terry Colegrove, RCDD, NTS, OSP, WD,
appropriate IT, AV, and security requirements. The Retired, Communication Infrastructure
RCDD has learned to perform the design tasks Designs, Inc., St. Charles, IL, USA
related to these systems, including construction
drawings and specifications.

The U.S. Courts Design Guide1 requires that GI Bill Information

pathways and spaces be designed by an RCDD. The BICSI RCDD exam may be eligible for GI Bill
Both the U.S. Defense Department’s Unified reimbursement for those who qualify. The VA pays only
Facilities Criteria (UFC)-Telecommunications the exam costs, or up to $2,000 for each exam. Payment
Building Cabling Systems Planning and Design2 and
is issued after you submit proof of payment to the VA.
the Army’s Technical Criteria for the Installation
Information Infrastructure Architecture3 require an The VA will pay for exams, even if you are unsuccessful in
RCDD to provide design services. your attempt to earn a certification. For more
information, including an application for reimbursement
During the Expansion of the Abu Dhabi of exam fees, please visit the "Get paid back for test
International Airport4 in the United Arab Emirates it fees" webpage by clicking here. Please note that BICSI
was required that the Testing Field Supervisor be an
exam requirements and retest policies still apply.
RCDD and that cabling installers have an RCDD on
staff.
U.S. Military Financial Assistance Program
1
U.S. Courts Design Guide, Judicial Conference of the Through the Credentialing Opportunities Online
United States, 2007 (with 2008 revisions), Chapter 15: Program, qualifying U.S. military members can use their
Building Systems, Communications Systems section, p.
15-15. 2 UFC-3-58-01, 01 June 2016, Chapter 2 – Design ICT-related installation, design, and project
Requirements, p. 3. 3Department of the Army-United management experience toward earning a BICSI
States Army Information Systems Engineering credential. Recognized worldwide, our certification
Command-Fort Huachuca, Arizona 85613-5300,
programs help you position yourself as an expert in the
Technical Criteria for the Installation Information
Infrastructure Architecture, Chapter 2.0 – Building ICT industry and prepare you for a lifelong career in an
Telecommunications Cabling Systems (BCS) in-demand industry.
Specifications, p. 2. 4Contract: Midfield Terminal Building
– General Contractor, WBS 1.2.3.3 Tender Document:
More information on the five available assistance
Volume 3 of 4, SPECIFICATIONS Book 12 of 24 –
Division 27 - January 2011. programs can be found online at bicsi.org/COOL.

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 RCDD CREDENTIALING PROCESS

PHASE 2: PREPARE
RCDD V15 EXAM BLUEPRINT
RCDD v15 EXAM BLUEPRINT % OF EXAM
Define Scope of Project 10%
Design ICT Solutions 63%
Support ICT Bid/Tender Process 11%
Support ICT Installation Process 16%
Total 100%

DEFINE SCOPE OF PROJECT 10%

Identify the scope of work to be performed to have a clear understanding of client ICT requirements and what is
in scope.

Design ICT systems based upon applicable codes, standards per the authority having jurisdiction, and client
requirements and established order of precedence to ensure minimum performance specifications and legal
compliance.

Estimate ICT project costs based on scope of work to provide the owner (e.g., client, company) the necessary
information for an ICT project suitable to the clients' performance and budgetary expectations.

Estimate ICT project timeline schedule based on scope of work to provide the owner (e.g., client, company) the
necessary information for an ICT project suitable to the clients' time frame expectations.

Assess ICT current conditions as required to determine design solutions by conducting a site survey and reviewing
record documentation.

DESIGN ICT SOLUTIONS 63%

Produce ICT design project documentation that includes the specific scope, constraints, risks, budget, and
technical design for stakeholder (i.e., client, installers) review, approval, and implementation.

Locate and size ICT telecommunication spaces by reviewing drawings and/or coordinating with the
project stakeholders to ensure standards compliance and/or client requirements are met.

Coordinate ICT design with other services (e.g., electrical, heating ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC))
to ensure interdependencies between systems are met and to avoid interference among services.

Coordinate ICT work area outlet locations with project stakeholders to ensure standards compliance and/
or client requirements are met.

Specify ICT work area outlet products to ensure a design with performance-based requirements and/or
client requirements from the project scope are met.

Specify ICT horizontal transmission media to ensure a design with performance-based requirements
and/or client requirements from the project scope are met.

Calculate (size) ICT horizontal pathways to ensure standards and code compliance and/or client
requirements are met.

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 Specify ICT horizontal pathway types to ensure standards and code compliance and/or client requirements
are met.

Coordinate ICT horizontal pathways with project stakeholders to ensure standards compliance and/or client
requirements are met, and to avoid interference with other services.

Specify ICT Outside Plant (OSP) backbone transmission media to ensure a design that meets performance-
based requirements and/or client requirements from the project scope.

Calculate (size) ICT OSP backbone pathways to ensure standards and code compliance and/or client
requirements are met.

Specify ICT OSP backbone pathway types to ensure standards and code compliance and/or client
requirements are met.

Coordinate ICT OSP backbone pathways with project stakeholders to ensure standards compliance and/or
client requirements are met, and to avoid interference with other services.

Specify ICT premise backbone transmission media to ensure a design that meets performance-based
requirements and/or client requirements from the project scope.

Calculate (size) ICT premise backbone pathways to ensure standards and code compliance and/or client
requirements are met.

Specify ICT premise backbone pathway types to ensure standards and code compliance and/or client
requirements are met.

Coordinate ICT premise backbone pathways with project stakeholders to ensure standards compliance
and/or client requirements are met, and to avoid interference with other services.

Incorporate ICT telecommunication space system requirements (e.g., server, switch, Private Branch
Exchange (PBX)) into the design to ensure there is space and supporting infrastructure.

Advise the projects' electrical engineer on the ICT telecommunication space electrical requirements in order
to coordinate the minimum lighting, equipment load, equipment locations, and backup power needs to
ensure the systems' availability as per the client’s needs.

Advise the projects' mechanical engineer on the ICT telecommunication space's HVAC and plumbing
requirements in order to coordinate the minimum needs per governing codes, standards, and the client
requirements.

Specify ICT telecommunication space's Structured Cabling System (SCS) components (e.g., patch
panels, racks, enclosures) to ensure a design that meets performance-based requirements and/or client
requirements from the project scope.

Design ICT telecommunication spaces to ensure standards compliance and/or client requirements are
met.

Calculate (size) ICT telecommunication space pathways to ensure standards and code compliance and/or
client requirements are met.

Specify ICT telecommunication space pathway types to ensure standards and code compliance and/or
client requirements are met.

Coordinate ICT telecommunication space pathways with project stakeholders to ensure standards
compliance and/or client requirements are met and to avoid conflicts with other services.

Produce ICT design documents and bill/list of materials (BOM/LOM) for the project stakeholders per the
project scope (i.e., drawings, specifications, calculations).

Evaluate ICT design (e.g., Quality Assurance (QA)) to ensure standards and code compliance and/or client
requirements are met.

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 Review ICT design documents with client (e.g., drawings, specs) and provide documented feedback.

Specify ICT grounding, bonding, lightning, and surge protection requirements to ensure standards and code
compliance and/or client requirements from the project scope are met.

Specify ICT system administration and labeling requirements to ensure standards and code compliance
and/or client requirements from the project scope are met.

Specify ICT system testing requirements to ensure standards and code compliance and/or client
requirements from the project scope are met.

Specify ICT firestop and penetration requirements to ensure standards and code compliance and/or client
requirements from the project scope are met.

SUPPORT ICT BID/TENDER PROCESS 11%

Generate ICT Request for Proposal (RFPs) or Request for Quote (RFQs) for project stakeholders based on the
required design to provide clear direction to prospective bidders based on project requirements and expected
deliverables. 11%
Respond to ICT RFP or RFQ based on the required design and stakeholder requirements to provide a clear
response on design intent and how contractual requirements are met.

Generate ICT Request for Information (RFIs) to gather further clarification of design intent or installation
concerns.

Respond to ICT RFI to provide further clarification of design intent or installation concerns raised by bidders.

Review ICT proposals for completeness based on the RFP.

Participate in additional bid/tender activities (i.e., bidders’ conference, meetings, site walks) as required.

SUPPORT ICT INSTALLATION PROCESS 16%

Produce ICT submittals for approval (i.e., product submittals, shop drawings) to ensure the defined installation
documents are coordinated with stakeholders, are constructible, and deliverables comply with contract. 16%
Review ICT submittals (i.e., product submittals, shop drawings) to approve, reject or comment as necessary
based on design criteria.

Revise ICT submittal based on a rejection or comments.

Participate in the procurement of ICT materials to ensure the materials match the submittals.

Coordinate ICT installations with other services to ensure interdependencies between systems are met and to
avoid interference.

Conduct ongoing ICT inspections to ensure standard and code compliance, design intent, and/or client
requirements are met.

Conduct final ICT inspections to ensure standard and code compliance, design intent, and/or client
requirements are met.

Produce ICT close-out documentation to the owner.

Review ICT close-out documentation with the owner to ensure it is accurate and complete.

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 KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS NEEDED AT CERTIFICATION
Time management skills
Knowledge of project timelines
Budgeting skills
Skill to identify the obstacles that impact the design of pathways and spaces (i.e., interior design)
Knowledge of estimating principles
Basic knowledge of liability and risk
Knowledge of all applicable codes and standards (i.e., local, building, national, federal)
Knowledge of data networking and cloud computing principles
Knowledge of telephony systems and principles
Knowledge of mobile and wireless computing principles (i.e., WIFI)
Knowledge of client project applications (i.e., federal, commercial, residential, industrial)
Knowledge of TV systems (i.e., Community Antenna (or Access) Television (CATV), Master
Knowledge of AV systems and principles
Knowledge of electronic security and safety
Knowledge of paging systems and sound masking
Knowledge of design drawings & specs (i.e., Construction Specifications Institute (CSI) Master Format)
Knowledge of architectural design process (i.e., Schematic Design, Design Development, Construction
Documents)
Knowledge of computer software (i.e., Office, Revit Microstation, AutoCAD)
Knowledge of industry-related and currently used products
Knowledge of impact of converged systems on Structured Cabling System (SCS)
Knowledge of virtualization impact (i.e., server, network) on SCS
Knowledge of electromagnetic interference and compatibility
Knowledge of physical security concepts
Knowledge of Integrated Building Technology (IBT)
Knowledge of fiber to the x (any network)
Knowledge of the different media types (i.e., copper, fiber, wireless) and converters
Knowledge of transmission principles and associated electronics
Knowledge of distributed antenna systems (i.e., DAS)
Knowledge of system integration
Knowledge of Power over Ethernet (POE), POE+, and POE++technologies
Knowledge of building automation systems
Knowledge of electrical principles
Knowledge of pathways and spaces (i.e., types, sizes, where they can be used)
Knowledge of passive optical networks
Knowledge of fire suppression and detection
Knowledge risk/gap analysis
Knowledge of environmental factors (e.g., seismic, hazardous materials)

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 Knowledge of sustainability
Knowledge or clash detection
Knowledge of lighting
Knowledge of data center design
Presentation skills
Written communication skills (i.e., emails, reports, specification writing, technical)
Oral communication skills
Electrical terms knowledge
Knowledge of services terminology (e.g., structural, architectural, civil engineering)
Knowledge of market conditions
Problem solving skills
Collaboration skills
Skill to review the designs of other services (i.e., electrical, architectural)
Skill to coordinate with service providers/carriers
Knowledge of basic project management
Knowledge of measurement and testing

Exam Copyright
All exam questions are the copyrighted property of BICSI. Any attempt to reproduce all or part of an exam is strictly
prohibited by law. Such attempts include, but are not limited to, removing materials from the exam room, aiding others
in reconstructing any portion of an exam by any means, or selling, distributing, receiving, or having unauthorized
possession of any portion of an exam. Alleged copyright violations will be investigated and, if warranted, prosecuted
to the fullest extent of the law. It should also be noted that exam scores might be invalidated in the event of this type of
suspected breach.
Suggested Study
No two candidates come to the exam with the same knowledge base, as ICT experience and educational backgrounds vary;
therefore, it is not possible to train for or teach to the exam in its entirety. The best way to prepare is to review and study each
functional area of the exam content outline for the RCDD Exam, as well as the suggested materials below:

MID-CAREER (Two to five years of experience) ADVANCED CAREER (Five-plus years of

experience)
• DD101 (or the pre-assessment): Best Practices • DD101 (or the pre-assessment): Best Practices
for Telecommunications Distribution Design for Telecommunications Distribution Design
(BICSI CONNECT online course) (BICSI CONNECT online course)
• DD215: Applied Intelligent Building Design • 
DD215: Applied Intelligent Building Design
• 150+ TDMM study hours • 125+ TDMM study hours
• BICSI TDMM flash cards • BICSI TDMM flash cards
• BICSI RCDD Test Preparation Course • BICSI RCDD Test Preparation Course
(BICSI CONNECT online course) (BICSI CONNECT online course)

Exam Specifics
Number of Questions .......................................................... 100
Allotted Examination Time................................................ 2.5 Hours

The exam contains 100 scored items that include multiple choice; multiple response; and enhanced matching item
types. Item options range between three and five options.

Page 16
 RCDD CREDENTIALING PROCESS

PHASE 3: APPLY - LEARN HOW TO GET STARTED!

Application Process
The following items must be completed and submitted to BICSI on your BICSI online profile.
• A fully completed online RCDD Exam Application.
• Current résumé.
• If applicable, a copy of degrees, diplomas, and/or certifications.

ICT experience will be verified. Based on the verification process of your experience, BICSI reserves
the right to require additional submittal as proof of experience. Failure to provide these additional
requirements will result in rejection of the application.

Application Processing
BICSI processes applications in the order they are received. A nonrefundable application fee must
be paid prior to submitting your application.

Please allow 30 days for approval.

Fees PRICES* DETAILS

Exam Application Fee $510 - BICSI Member Fees include:

(Paid to BICSI) $725 - Nonmember Processing of exam application, first attempt exam fee,
registration and testing at any Pearson VUE location, exam
score report for unsuccessful attempts, RCDD electronic
certificate once certification is achieved.

Fees do not include:

Study materials, preparatory classes, study support fees,
traveling expenses to and from testing centers or retest fees.

Exam Retest Fee $230 - BICSI Member Fee applies to retest at a Pearson VUE location after an
(Paid to Pearson VUE) $355 - Nonmember unsuccessful attempt.

*Pricing is listed in U.S. dollars and subject to change without notice.

Payment Methods PAYMENT TYPE METHOD FOR SENDING PAYMENT

Credit card On your BICSI profile or over the phone.

Check or money order Postal mail to BICSI.

Wire transfer Email [email protected] for wire transfer details.

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 RCDD CREDENTIALING PROCESS

Incomplete Applications Waiting Period

Exam candidates whose application is During any exam eligibility period (one year from
submitted without all the requirements will the date of application approval), there is a 30-
receive an email outlining what information day waiting period between each unsuccessful
is missing and when it is due. The missing exam attempt. After a third unsuccessful
information must be submitted by the due attempt, a 90-day waiting period will begin.
date or the application will be considered You may be allotted additional attempts after
incomplete and will not be accepted. The the 90-day waiting period if your exam eligibility
exam application fee will be forfeited. period is still valid.

Application Denials Each exam retest requires the appropriate exam

An application will not be approved, and/or retest fee. If you do not pass the exam within
the candidate’s authorization to test may be your exam eligibility period, you can reapply
revoked, for any of the following reasons: for the exam by submitting a new application.

• Failure to meet the minimum eligibility Terms and Conditions

requirements You must agree to the following statements:
• Application is incomplete • I agree to inform BICSI, without delay, of
• Falsification of information on the matters that can affect my capability
application to continue to fulfill the certification
• Misrepresentation of work experience or requirements.
other information on the application • In the event of a certification suspension, I will
• Violation of testing policies and procedures refrain from any use and/or further promotion
of the certification while it is suspended.
Refund Policy • In the event of withdrawal or revocation of
Application fees are not refundable or the certification, I will refrain from use of all
transferable, including those found to be references to a certified status.
ineligible. • I will make claims regarding certification
only with respect to the scope for which
Legal Name certification has been granted.
When submitting your application use • I will not use the certification in such a
your full legal name as it appears on your manner as to bring BICSI into disrepute,
unexpired, valid, government-issued official and not make any statement regarding
identification documentation. This is the the certification, which BICSI considers
name that the testing administration site will misleading or unauthorized.
use to verify your exam on your exam day. • I will not use certification status or the
This is also the name that will appear on your credential in a misleading manner.
official certification once you successfully • I certify that I will not provide, receive, or
pass the exam. release any confidential exam information
and/or materials (including, but not limited
Eligibility Dates to: recording, copying, disclosing, sharing,
Your application is valid for one year from the publishing, or otherwise transmitting exam
date it is approved. This is referred to as your information by any means and for any
eligibility dates in your Exam Authorization purpose) or participate in fraudulent test-
Letter. taking practices.

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 RCDD CREDENTIALING PROCESS

PHASE 4: TEST
Request for Special Accommodations
BICSI complies with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) and shall ensure no individual is deprived of
the opportunity to take a BICSI certification examination solely by reason of a disability as defined under
the ADA. Candidates must submit a written request and recent (within the last three years) supporting
documentation related to disability needs. The request and supporting documentation must be received
at least 30 calendar days prior to the examination. Requests for special testing accommodations require
documentation of a formally diagnosed and qualified disability by a qualified professional who has
provided evaluation or treatment for the candidate.

Appeal of Denial of Request for Special Accommodations

Candidates who are denied their request for special accommodations may file an appeal with BICSI. See
BICSI Credential's Appeals Process, page 28.

How to Schedule
BICSI partners with Pearson VUE to deliver the RCDD exam in a computer-based testing format. Pearson
VUE will notify you of any changes to test site availability due to bad weather, technical issues, or other
unscheduled events.

Once your application is approved, you will receive a BICSI Exam Authorization Letter by email confirming
your approval. The authorization letter includes your candidate ID, first attempt exam fee voucher, as well
as scheduling information.

We encourage you to schedule your exam appointment date as soon as you are approved. Scheduling
early increases the chance you will receive your preferred testing date, time, and location.

When scheduling an appointment, have the following information available:

• Your name exactly as it appears on your valid, unexpired government-issued ID
• Your candidate ID number
• The name of your exam sponsor (BICSI)
• The exam for which you are approved (RCDDv15)
• Your preferred appointment date, time, and location
• First attempt exam fee voucher

To schedule online, visit pearsonvue.com/bicsi and click on “create an account” or “sign in,” if you already
have a Pearson VUE account.

You can also schedule on the phone. To do so, call 888.602.6941. International phone numbers may vary.
Please refer to the Pearson VUE website for alternate numbers, if needed.

Rescheduling or Cancellation Policy

You must contact Pearson VUE at least one business day prior to your scheduled appointment if you
would like to reschedule or cancel your testing appointment. Rescheduling or canceling less than one full
business day prior to your appointment may result in forfeiting your exam fees.

Exam Fee
Your first attempt exam fee is included in your application fee and is paid directly to BICSI. The first attempt
exam fee includes registration and testing at any Pearson VUE location, and an exam score report for
unsuccessful attempts. In the event you are unsuccessful, exam retest fees apply and are paid directly to
Pearson VUE.

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 RCDD CREDENTIALING PROCESS

Exam Identification & Conduct Requirements

The RCDD certification exam is administered in highly secure testing centers. All exam
candidates will be required to provide proof of identity with an unexpired, original government-
issued photo ID with signature, such as a driver's license, a passport, or military ID. The name and
photo on the primary or secondary ID must exactly match the name on the candidate's Exam
Authorization Letter.

You will be required to provide a secondary ID. The following are acceptable forms of secondary
identification:
• Valid employer identification card
• Valid credit card with signature
• Valid bank card with photo

Examples of Acceptable
NAME ON APPLICATION NAME ON ID ADMITTED TO TEST
Names on Required ID
Mohammed Saeed Saeed Mohammed Yes

Christine Reynolds Christine White No

William Rice Bill Rice Yes

T.J. Coleman Thomas J Coleman Yes

Tanya L. Sullivan Tanya Lee Sullivan Yes

Trained Pearson VUE proctors will supervise the exam. Irregularities observed or suspected by the
proctors, or identified by subsequent statistical analysis of your answers on the exam, may result
in your removal from participation in the exam or invalidation of your score. Irregularities include,
but are not limited to, creating a disturbance, giving or receiving unauthorized information or aid to
or from other examinees, or attempting to remove materials from the testing room. BICSI reserves
the right to investigate each incident of misconduct or irregularity.

Candidates must be able to use a computer and mouse.

Candidates are not allowed to bring any items into the testing room (phones, watches, hats, etc.).
All necessary items will be available during the exam, including calculators and a whiteboard as
scratch paper.

There are no scheduled breaks during the exam. If a break is needed, the break will count toward
the 2.5 hours you have to complete the exam.

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 RCDD CREDENTIALING PROCESS

Confidentiality Results
All exam questions are the copyrighted property of After completing the examination, candidates
BICSI. It is forbidden under federal copyright law to who pass the exam will be notified of their
copy, reproduce, record, distribute, display, or share passing status immediately at the testing facility.
these examination questions by any means, in Candidates who are unsuccessful on the exam will
whole or in part. be provided a score report. The score report is an
explanation of your performance level on each of
New credential holders will be listed, by name only, the topic areas covered on the exam. It is not an
in BICSI publications. Please contact us immediately actual score. Each section has a different weighting
if you wish to be excluded. Exam (pass/fail) results based on the number of questions in each section.
are confidential and will not be disclosed to anyone One section may have a smaller or larger number
without candidate consent, unless directed by valid of questions than in the other sections. It is meant
and lawful subpoena or court order. to provide you with the areas for which you may
need some additional study.
When you submit your RCDD exam application, you
agree to abide by the BICSI Terms and Conditions Candidates who pass the exam will have an
(found on page 18 of this handbook). Among electronic certificate available for download
other things, the Terms and Conditions address within three days of passing the exam through
post-examination questions and discussions. It your credential dashboard. You will also receive
states: “… I certify that I will not provide, receive, or instructions on how to obtain your digital
release any confidential examination information credential, your electronic stamp, and your RCDD
and/or materials (including, but not limited to: logo.
recording, copying, disclosing, sharing, publishing,
or otherwise transmitting exam information by Retest Information
any means and for any purpose) or participate in There is a 30-day waiting period between
fraudulent test-taking practices.” each unsuccessful exam attempt. After a third
unsuccessful attempt, a 90-day waiting period will
Any such discussion would be a potential violation begin. You may be allotted additional attempts
of the BICSI Terms and Conditions and could affect after the 90-day waiting period if your exam
the status of your credential, up to and including eligibility period is still valid.
revocation of your credential or permanent
suspension from any BICSI credential exams. Each exam retest requires the appropriate exam
retest fee. If you do not pass the exam within your
Passing Score exam eligibility period, you can reapply for the
The RCDD exam is designed to identify candidates exam by submitting a new application.
with proficiency in the necessary competencies and
knowledge that drives success in the ICT industry. Comments
The passing score for the RCDD exam is determined If you would like to provide a comment on a
by sound psychometric analysis. The passing score specific question on the exam and have it reviewed
is established through a process called standard- by the RCSC, you may do so by making a comment
setting, during which a selected panel of experts in the exam using the comment feature. If you
from the ICT field who currently hold the RCDD answer the question incorrectly and the committee
credential conduct a systematic evaluation of the determines a re-score, changing your final score
test content. The panel discusses the qualifications from fail to pass, BICSI’s Credentialing Department
for certification and makes a judgment on the level will notify you by email within 30 days of your exam.
of knowledge an individual needs to be successful The time spent on commenting on questions is
on the job. Their expert judgment is translated allotted in the 2.5 hour exam total time and only
to a specific passing score on the exam using comments made during the exam will be reviewed.
the statistical Angoff Method, a commonly used
method in the credentialing industry.

Your performance on the RCDD exam will be

measured against this predetermined standard.
Your performance will not be measured against the
performance of other individuals.

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 RCDD CREDENTIALING PROCESS

PHASE 5: RECERTIFY
STATUS DEFINITION

Active The status of a current credential.

The period between expiration of a credential and 90 days post-expiration

Grace Period
of that credential.

Inactive The period after your grace period of 90 days through one year
Suspended Period post-expiration of that credential.

The status of a credential greater than one year from expiration

Expired of that credential.

The RCSC will review and vote on reinstatement requests that have
Reinstatement provided documentation of undue hardship preventing recertification
during the standard recertification and suspension period.

After a credential has lapsed for greater than one year from the expiration
Re-examination
date and has not been approved for reinstatement.

RCDD Credential Registration Period

Your RCDD credential is valid for three complete calendar years, with an expiration date
of 31 December. Your credential will be valid for the remainder of that calendar year in
which you first passed the exam plus an additional three years, regardless of the month
in which you passed the exam. For example, if you earned your RCDD certification on 20
September 2021, your credential expiration date would be 31 December 2024.

Recertification Requirements
Recertification is an important part of any respected certification program and it is
required to maintain a certification after passing the exam. Recertification helps to
ensure the validity and credibility of the RCDD credential. BICSI views learning as a lifelong
endeavor and places an emphasis upon continuing education as part of maintaining
your RCDD status.

It is the RCDD‘s professional responsibility to ensure that all requirements and

conditions for recertification are satisfied and submitted to BICSI prior to the credential
period ending. BICSI issues recertification reminders as a courtesy, but it is the credential
holder who is ultimately responsible for keeping track and documenting continuing
education credits (CECs) and any other requirements of the recertification process.
Within each three-year designation period, beginning when the exam is passed, all
RCDDs must obtain a minimum of 45 approved CECs and one qualifying conference
credit (conference CECs are included in the total) to recertify. If you do not recertify
by your designation period end date, you may no longer use your RCDD credential or
represent yourself as certified.

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 RCDD CREDENTIALING PROCESS

Recertification Fees PRICES* DETAILS

Recertification Fee $225 - BICSI Member Fee applies to participate in the recertification process.
$385 - Nonmember A completed recertification application must be
submitted online, along with payment.

Recertification Late Fee $175 Fee applies to recertifications completed six months to
one year past the credential expiration date.

Reinstatement Fee $300 Fee applies to credential reinstatement.

*Pricing is listed in U.S. dollars and subject to change without notice.

Page 23
 RCDD CREDENTIALING PROCESS

Recertification Audit
BICSI has implemented a Recertification Audit Policy. Your CEC submissions are subject to random
audit no later than 30 days after you recertify your credential.

ALL CREDENTIAL HOLDERS ARE SUBJECT TO AN AUDIT.

As a credentialing body, BICSI requires certification maintenance to protect the quality and integrity
of the certification programs. Knowledge and skills required for competent occupational and
professional performance change over time. This maintenance process encourages credential
holders to remain current in their field; it increases confidence among the public, employers, and
other stakeholders.

BICSI requires those holding a BICSI credential to participate in certification maintenance by

adhering to the recertification requirements for the credential and adhering to the CEC Program at
bicsi.org/cec in order to retain their certification.

As a BICSI credential holder, you have consented to the policies, processes, and procedures of
BICSI’s credentialing program, which includes the Continuing Education Credit Program and
adherence to the terms of the audit process. This means that all CEC documentation has been
reviewed by you and that you are acting in accordance to these policies and procedures.

The recertification audit serves as a method to ensure that credential holders are meeting the
minimum standards to maintain the knowledge and skills needed to remain current in the field of
ICT in cable infrastructure and design.

Please continue to submit CECs and supporting documentation as you earn them to easily keep up
with the audit process. Please maintain copies of your records for six months after recertifying your
credential in case you are randomly selected for an audit.
AFTER BECOMING AN RCDD

Use of the Designation

Professionals who have met the certification standards defined by BICSI and who maintain their credential
through the recertification process are authorized to use the RCDD designation, including an RCDD stamp.

Adding your RCDD credential to your professional profile will draw special attention to your achievement, and
to the time and discipline involved in pursuing and attaining your goal. You may include your credential on
business cards, on résumés, on your personal web pages, in bylines for articles or blog posts, and in email
signatures.

Digital Credential
BICSI provides a digital credential to qualified recipients who have successfully passed their BICSI RCDD exam.
BICSI digital credentials are web-enabled versions of a credential that can be verified in real time, online.

What are the benefits of a digital credential?

• Embed in bid documents to easily manage, share, and verify your learning achievements.
• Secure verification adds credibility to your achievement.
• Labor market insights connect your skills with active job opportunities.
• Access promotional offers and learning pathways available only to badge earners.

Visit the BICSI website for more information at bicsi.org/digitialcredential.

RCDD Stamp
We encourage you to use your RCDD stamp whenever appropriate. You may view the full “How to Use your
Stamp/Logo” here. You are eligible to receive a complimentary digital RCDD stamp by emailing your request
to [email protected]. You are also able to purchase a self-inking stamp through RS Rubber Stamps &
Engraving*. The order form to complete is located on your credential dashboard on your BICSI profile.

*A copy of your credentialing certificate must be included as proof of credential to process your order.

Credential Verification
The names of current credential holders are not considered confidential and may be published by BICSI.
Published information may include name, city, state, country, and organization. The names of all professionals
holding the RCDD certification will be automatically listed in BICSI’s online Verify/Search a Credential Holder
Directory, searchable by city, state, and country. It can be found online at bicsi.org/verify.

Records Retention
BICSI retains paper documentation for two years. You must retain copies of all documentation sent to BICSI.

Page 25
Recertification Suspension Policy
A suspension period is intended to allow you the opportunity to complete your expired credentials’
recertification requirements without the loss of the credential. The expired certification will instead be
suspended (invalid) until all recertification requirements have been satisfied as defined below.

The suspension shall be provided automatically after 90 days past the expiration date.

You will receive a notice of expiration and placement into the suspension period. The suspension shall expire
one year from the certification’s original expiration date.

The suspension period will not alter the recertification period dates or change the certification’s original
expiration date. BICSI’s website will indicate the credential holder’s suspended certification during any
suspended period. If proof of the suspension period is required by someone other than the credential holder
(i.e., client or employer), you may log into your BICSI profile for status of your certification.

To view the Suspension Policy, in its entirety, as well as the conditions of suspension, please visit the BICSI
Credentialing webpage at bicsi.org/recertify.

Reinstatement Policy for Lapsed Credential Holders

Reinstatement of a lapsed credential is allowed under certain circumstances. Eligibility is available to any
credential holder who has lapsed recertification for no more than two terms past the credential’s original
expiration date. The procedures to reacquire your credential are as follows:

Option 1
• Retest.
Option 2
• Provide documentation for the continued work of an RCDD performed over the lapsed period.
• List any ICT training attended during the lapsed period.
• Attend and complete the DD102: Applied Intelligent Building Design training course.
• Pay reinstatement fee.

Reinstatements: The credential will remain in expired status until the completion of the requirements outlined in
this policy. The lapsed credential amnesty reinstatement opportunity is available to a lapsed credential holder
one time only. Any future lapsed periods will require a retest to earn certification.

Page 26
 General Policies and Procedures

Code of Ethics and Professional Obligations

BICSI has established the Ethics Committee, the Code of Ethics, and a list of Professional Obligations to
reinforce the Code. The Code of Ethics is as follows: It is important that BICSI members and credential
holders exhibit the highest principles of ethical and professional behavior in the provision of their products
and services associated with the information and communications technology (ICT) industry and in their
professional interactions associated with BICSI or BICSI events.

The below listed Professional Obligations serve as guidelines to assist members and credential holders
to understand the meaning of the Code of Ethics. Adhering to these Professional Obligations will enhance
public confidence in the integrity and service of BICSI members and credential holders.
Adherence to the 12 Professional Obligations is mandatory.

As a BICSI member and/or BICSI credential holder, I have an ethical and professional obligation to the
association, the ICT industry, and its consumers. I therefore pledge to:

1. Maintain a high standard of 8. Maintain the confidentiality of privileged

professional conduct. information entrusted or known to me
by virtue of my profession or position
2. Protect and enhance the reputation in accordance with all applicable
of the BICSI organization, the laws and/or agreements.
credentialing program, and any
credential held, through my actions. 9. B
 e accurate and truthful in my dealings
with clients and not misrepresent the
3. Not misrepresent my BICSI credential(s) quality, quantity, cost, availability, or
nor willingly allow others to represent ability of the services I provide.
or use my credential(s).
10. Be accurate, honest, and truthful in
4. Adhere to all relevant codes, the presentation of all educational
laws, ICT industry standards, material or in the preparation of material
and BICSI methodologies. orders and product availability.
5. Serve
 all members of the public honestly 11. Provide unbiased, accurate, and objective
impartially, providing no substandard assessments for all safety and operational
service, based on age, race, national deficiencies that may be discovered
origin, color, gender, sexual orientation, during the performance of my services.
disability, or religious belief.
12. Refrain from using false and misleading
6. Refrain from knowingly misrepresenting statements or malicious actions that
or misstating my or any other individual’s might injure another person’s reputation
qualifications, abilities, or accomplishments. or bring harm to their person or property.
7. Respect a client’s decision in the selection
of competitive services and continue
to offer and provide that client with
quality services, when requested.

Page 27
 General Policies and Procedures

BICSI Credential’s Appeal Process

An appeal should be sent to BICSI’s Liaison, emailed to [email protected] Attn: RCSC Staff Liaison,
within 14 calendar days from the date on the denial notification.

When a notification of intent to appeal has been received by the Staff Liaison, the RCSC Appeals Panel will be
notified of the intent to appeal. The Staff Liaison will prepare a package of the related data and supporting
documents and send to the Appeals Panel, within seven calendar days.

This Appeals Panel shall reach a decision no later than 30 calendar days from the original receipt of the
appeal. During the review of an appeal, should a member of the panel have a conflict of interest, that
member must recuse themself and an alternate will be assigned.

Appeals Panel
The Appeals Panel is comprised of the RCSC Chair, Vice-Chair, Secretary, and Staff Liaison (non-voting).

Acts as a primary body to review appeal issues and requests made to the RCSC and may request
investigations and/or further research into an issue before making a determination. Panel shall review facts
of a denied reinstatement of credential(s), denial of certification exam application, or exam challenge.

The Appeals Panel has three options:

• Uphold the original decision.

• Amend the original decision backed by further review.
• Deny the appeal.

All Appeals Panel decisions are considered one-time exceptions and DO NOT represent a permanent
policy change unless the RCSC subsequently formally approves a permanent change.

Page 28
Page 29
 BICSI ANTITRUST STATEMENT
BICSI believes strongly in competition. U.S. antitrust
laws are the rules under which our competitive
system operates. It is BICSI’s policy to comply in all
respects with the antitrust laws.

Association meetings or workshops by their very

nature bring competitors together. Accordingly, it is
necessary to avoid discussions of sensitive topics.
Agreements to fix prices, allocate markets, engage
in product boycotts, and to refuse to deal with third
parties are automatically illegal under the antitrust
laws. It does not matter what the reason for the
agreement might be.

Accordingly, at any association meeting

discussions of prices (including elements of prices
such as allowances and credit terms), quality
ratings of suppliers, and discussions that may
cause a competitor to cease purchasing from
a particular supplier, or selling to a particular
customer, should be avoided. Also, there should
be no discussion that might be interpreted as a
dividing up of territories.

An antitrust violation does not require proof of a

formal agreement. A discussion of a sensitive
topic, such as price, followed by action by those
involved or present at the discussion is enough to
show a price-fixing conspiracy. As a result, those
attending an association-sponsored meeting should
remember the importance of avoiding not only
unlawful activities, but even the appearance of
unlawful activity.

For more information:

bicsi.org/credentialing

Questions:
Phone: +1 813.979.1991 or 800.242.7405
©
BICSI, 2024. All rights reserved.
­­
BICSI and RCDD are registered trademarks (USA & Canada toll-free)
of BICSI, Inc. The RCDD® Certification Handbook Email: [email protected]
and its contents are the property of BICSI.