Credential Information

2026-2027 Academic Year

Credential Version

Starting with SY 26-27, for credentials offered through Certiport, NCDPI will only recognize the three most current versions as of August of the current school year.
These credentials are indicated by two asterisks in the Validation Artifact field of the Credential Information.

I-CAR Academy Plastic Repair

Credential Name	I-CAR Academy Plastic Repair
Credential Vendor Info	Inter-Industry Conference on Auto Collision Repair (I-CAR) Bud Center 5125 Trillium Blvd. \| Hoffman Estates, IL.60192 bud.center@i-car.com 920-749-0444
Implementation Year	2026-2027
Credential Auto Collect	No
Diploma Endorsement	IT38 = Yes
Validation Artifact	Copy of certificate
Credential Lead Consultant	Jim Pressly james.pressly@dpi.nc.gov
Course Code and Title	IT38 Automotive Body Repair III - Refinishing and Plastic Repair
Credential as POL	IT38 POL = Yes
Pathway(s)	Automotive Body Repair (AUBR)
Cost of Instructor Training	N/A
Instructor Training Requirements	None
Exam Voucher Expiration	1 year License runs July 1 through June 30
Credential Lifespan	Lifetime
Renewal Options	N/A
SOC (Standard Occupational Classification) Code(s)	Automotive Body and Related Repairers (49-3021) Cleaners of Vehicles and Equipment (53-7061) Insurance Appraisers, Auto Damage (13-1032) Painters, Construction and Maintenance (47-2141) Painting, Coating, and Decorating Workers (51-9123)
Articulation	No
Sequencing	Yes This credential is a building block to the four primary or four specialty roles at I-CAR. the student will use the credential to advance towards completion of the Pro-Levels associated with I-CAR training.
Employer Transferability	Yes
Delivery Format	Online
Proctored Environment Required	No The student will have access to complete the exams online without the need for a proctor. A proctor opportunity will be made available to states where a proctor is required
Proctored Requirements	N/A
Test Site Options and Requirements	Students may take the exam at any location designated by the school. No restrictions apply.
Testing Environment Requirements	N/A
Exam Time Allotment	Self-paced, usually no more than 60 minutes
Exam Passing Requirement	70%
Retakes	Yes Students may retake the exam 2 times, then it is locked and the administrator can unlock the exam for multiple attempts.
Student Accommodations	No Accommodations can be allowed. these will need to be expressed to I-CAR to verify they do not interfere with the integrity of the testing. Accommodations will be provided by the school not I-CAR.
Multilingual Resources*	Yes Spanish versions available in January 2026
Directory Notes	None

The North Carolina Office of Career and Technical Education provides multiple opportunities for students to obtain Industry-Recognized Credentials during their high school career.
Industry-recognized credentials hold immense value as they not only validate student skills and knowledge in a specific field but also serve as a powerful stepping stone toward future careers.

They provide a competitive edge in the job market, making students more attractive to potential employers and increasing their earning potential.

Moreover, industry-recognized credentials often lead to more job opportunities and pathways for advancement, helping students embark on successful and fulfilling career journeys.

Beyond the immediate benefits, these credentials instill a sense of accomplishment and confidence, motivating students to pursue higher education or dive directly into the workforce with the skills and certifications needed to excel.

Ultimately, industry-recognized credentials empower high school students to bridge the gap between education and real-world employment, setting them on a path toward a brighter and more prosperous future.

Access the NCDPI Credentials and Reporting website to submit a credential application and to view the latest Credential Attainment Report.

^ Indicates the pathway is an approved Local Course Option (LCO) pathway.

* Where multilingual exams are indicated, please be advised that the state of North Carolina adheres to general statute as follows:
G.S.§115C-81.45(a) requires classes (silent on exams) to be conducted in English "[e]xcept when a board authorizes teaching in a foreign language to comply with federal law."
Therefore, NC CTE will abide with the Accountability guidance that LEAs are not required to provide exams in other languages. If they choose to do so, it will be at local discretion.