ICML Certifications – A Guide to International Qualifications in Maintenance

Education and Experience

Candidates are not required to have formal education, complete specific courses, or demonstrate a minimum amount of professional experience before taking the LAT exam.

ICML recommends that candidates assess their own level of preparation, taking into account both their professional experience and the level of knowledge required in the Body of Knowledge (BoK) for the LAT certification. If needed, candidates should consult an instructor or supervisor to evaluate their readiness.

Training

Documented completion of lubrication management training aligned with the LAT Body of Knowledge is not required to take the exam.

However, ICML recommends using educational resources such as:

• guides and textbooks,
• classroom training,
• online training courses,
• training recordings,
• practical exercises,
• practice tests and revision materials.

These preparation methods help organize knowledge and increase the chances of achieving a successful exam result.

Exam

The LAT (Lubrication Apprentice Technician) certification exam consists of 70 multiple-choice questions designed to assess the candidate’s knowledge according to the LAT Body of Knowledge.

Key information:

• Number of questions: 70
• Exam format: multiple-choice test
• Duration: 2 hours
• Use of reference materials: not allowed (closed-book exam)
• Passing score: minimum 70% correct answers

After achieving the required score, the candidate receives the international ICML Lubrication Apprentice Technician (LAT) certification.

→ Exam details may be subject to change. The most up-to-date information is available on the ICML website.

Machinery Lubrication Technician Level I (MLT I) is the entry-level ICML certification for professionals responsible for the practical aspects of lubrication management. The certification confirms knowledge of proper machinery lubrication principles, lubricant selection, and activities related to maintaining equipment reliability.

MLT I is primarily intended for maintenance technicians, mechanics, and professionals who perform or supervise lubrication-related tasks in industrial facilities.

Education and Experience

To obtain the Machinery Lubrication Technician Level I (MLT I) certification, candidates must have at least two years of vocational education or practical experience in one or more of the following areas:

• machinery lubrication management,
• engineering,
• maintenance and servicing of mechanical equipment,
• technical occupations related to machine operation.

The required experience may include both formal post-secondary technical education and practical knowledge gained through professional work.

Training

Candidates must complete 16 hours of documented training in lubrication management, aligned with the requirements defined in the MLT I Body of Knowledge.

For online training or recorded training materials, the required training hours may also include:

• practical exercises,
• practice tests,
• revision materials.

However, the total time allocated to these activities cannot exceed 3 hours of the required 16 hours of training.

Candidates should have documentation confirming completion of the training, including:

• participant’s name and surname,
• trainer’s name, surname, and signature,
• training dates,
• number of completed training hours.

Exam

The Machinery Lubrication Technician Level I (MLT I) certification exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions designed to assess the candidate’s knowledge of practical lubrication management.

Key information:

• Number of questions: 100
• Exam format: multiple-choice test
• Duration: 3 hours
• Use of reference materials: not allowed (closed-book exam)
• Passing score: minimum 70% correct answers

After achieving the required score, the candidate receives the international ICML Machinery Lubrication Technician Level I (MLT I) certification, confirming fundamental technical competencies in proper machinery lubrication and maintenance.

→ Exam details may be subject to change. The most up-to-date information is available on the ICML website.

Machinery Lubrication Technician Level II (MLT II) is an advanced ICML certification level for professionals responsible for the practical management of machinery lubrication programs. The certification confirms advanced competencies in planning, implementing, and improving lubrication processes, contamination control, and applying best practices to increase equipment reliability.

MLT II is intended for experienced maintenance technicians, technical team leaders, and specialists who are responsible not only for performing lubrication tasks but also for optimizing and standardizing lubrication processes in industrial facilities.

Education and Experience

To obtain the Machinery Lubrication Technician Level II (MLT II) certification, candidates must have at least three years of vocational education or practical experience in one or more of the following areas:

• machinery lubrication management,
• engineering,
• maintenance and servicing of mechanical equipment,
• technical occupations related to machine operation.

An additional requirement is holding the following certification:

• Machinery Lubrication Technician Level I (MLT I).

Training

Candidates must complete 16 hours of documented training in lubrication management, aligned with the requirements defined in the MLT II Body of Knowledge.

MLT II training builds upon the knowledge and preparation required for the MLT I certification. The total required documented training time includes:

• 16 hours – MLT I,
• 16 hours – MLT II,
• 32 hours of training in total.

For online training or recorded training materials, the required training hours may also include:

• practical exercises,
• practice tests,
• revision materials.

However, the total time allocated to these activities cannot exceed 3 hours of the required 16 hours of MLT II training.

Candidates should have documentation confirming completion of the training, including:

• participant’s name and surname,
• trainer’s name, surname, and signature,
• training dates,
• total number of completed training hours.

Exam

The Machinery Lubrication Technician Level II (MLT II) certification exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions designed to assess advanced knowledge of lubrication management and machinery reliability.

Key information:

• Number of questions: 100
• Exam format: multiple-choice test
• Duration: 3 hours
• Use of reference materials: not allowed (closed-book exam)
• Passing score: minimum 70% correct answers

After achieving the required score, the candidate receives the international ICML Machinery Lubrication Technician Level II (MLT II) certification, confirming advanced competencies in practical machinery lubrication management and the implementation of reliability standards in industry.

→ Exam details may be subject to change. The most up-to-date information is available on the ICML website.

Education and Experience

To obtain the Machine Lubricant Analyst I (MLA I) certification, candidates must have at least 12 months of professional experience in the field of machinery condition monitoring using lubricant analysis.

ICML defines this experience as performing oil analysis and lubricant diagnostics activities for a minimum of 16 hours per month over a period of at least one year.

Training

Before taking the exam, candidates must complete 24 hours of documented training covering the topics defined in the Body of Knowledge (BoK) for the MLA I certification.

For online training or recorded training materials, the required training time may also include:

• practical exercises,
• laboratory assignments,
• practice tests,
• revision materials.

However, the total time allocated to these activities cannot exceed 4 hours of the required 24 hours of training.

Candidates should have documentation confirming completion of the training, including:

• participant’s name and surname,
• trainer’s name, surname, and signature,
• training dates,
• total number of completed training hours.

Exam

The Machine Lubricant Analyst I (MLA I) certification exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions designed to assess knowledge of oil analysis and machinery condition monitoring in accordance with the requirements of the MLA I Body of Knowledge.

Key information:

• Number of questions: 100
• Exam format: multiple-choice test
• Duration: 3 hours
• Use of reference materials: not allowed (closed-book exam)
• Passing score: minimum 70% correct answers

After achieving the required score, the candidate receives the international ICML Machine Lubricant Analyst Level I (MLA I) certification.

→ Exam details may be subject to change. The most up-to-date information is available on the ICML website.

Specialists holding the MLA II certification are prepared to interpret complex diagnostic data, identify the causes of operational issues, and support organizations in making decisions aimed at improving equipment reliability and efficiency.

Education and Experience

To obtain the Machine Lubricant Analyst II (MLA II) certification, candidates must have at least 24 months of professional experience in machinery condition monitoring using lubricant analysis.

ICML defines this requirement as a minimum of 384 hours of professional practice, performed regularly over a two-year period (minimum 16 hours per month).

Additionally, candidates must meet one of the following requirements:

• hold a valid Machine Lubricant Analyst Level I (MLA I) certification,
• or take the exam as a Mature Entry Candidate, without holding the MLA I certification.

For the Mature Entry Candidate pathway, candidates must provide documentation confirming:

• at least 576 additional hours of professional experience in oil diagnostics (a total of minimum 960 hours of experience),
• minimum 24 hours of training covering topics from the MLA I Body of Knowledge, completed through training courses, seminars, workshops, or practical exercises.

Training

Before taking the MLA II exam, candidates must complete 24 hours of documented training aligned with the knowledge requirements defined in the MLA II Body of Knowledge.

This training serves as an extension of the previous preparation required at the MLA I level or through the Mature Entry Candidate pathway. This means that candidates should have a total of 48 hours of documented training.

For online training or recorded training materials, the required training time may also include:

• practical exercises,
• laboratory assignments,
• practice tests,
• revision materials.

However, the total time allocated to these activities cannot exceed 4 hours of the required 24 hours of training.

Candidates should have documentation confirming completion of the training, including:

• participant’s name and surname,
• trainer’s name, surname, and signature,
• training dates,
• total number of completed training hours.

Exam

The Machine Lubricant Analyst II (MLA II) certification exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions designed to assess knowledge and skills in accordance with the requirements of the MLA II Body of Knowledge.

Key information:

• Number of questions: 100
• Exam format: multiple-choice test
• Duration: 3 hours
• Use of reference materials: not allowed (closed-book exam)
• Passing score: minimum 70% correct answers

After achieving the required score, the candidate receives the international ICML Machine Lubricant Analyst Level II (MLA II) certification, confirming advanced competencies in oil diagnostics and machinery condition monitoring.

→ Exam details may be subject to change. The most up-to-date information is available on the ICML website.

Machine Lubricant Analyst Level III (MLA III) is the highest level of ICML certification within the lubricant analysis pathway. The certification confirms expert knowledge and experience in oil diagnostics, machinery condition monitoring, and the design and improvement of lubrication management programs in industrial organizations.

Education and Experience

To obtain the Machine Lubricant Analyst III (MLA III) certification, candidates must have at least 36 months of professional experience in machinery condition monitoring using lubricant analysis.

ICML defines this requirement as performing oil diagnostics activities for a minimum of 16 hours per month over a period of at least three years.

An additional requirement for taking the exam is holding a valid certification:

• Machine Lubricant Analyst Level II (MLA II).

Training

Candidates must complete 32 hours of documented training aligned with the knowledge requirements defined in the MLA III Body of Knowledge.

This training represents the next stage in competency development and is completed in addition to the previously required training for MLA I and MLA II levels. In total, candidates should have 80 hours of documented training:

• 24 hours – MLA I,
• 24 hours – MLA II,
• 32 hours – MLA III.

For online training or recorded training materials, the required training time may also include:

• practical exercises,
• laboratory assignments,
• practice tests,
• revision materials.

However, the total time allocated to these activities cannot exceed 5 hours of the required 32 hours of training.

Training documentation should include:

• participant’s name and surname,
• trainer’s name, surname, and signature,
• training dates,
• total number of completed training hours.

Exam

The Machine Lubricant Analyst III (MLA III) certification exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions designed to verify advanced knowledge and practical understanding of the topics covered in the MLA III Body of Knowledge.

Key information:

• Number of questions: 100
• Exam format: multiple-choice test
• Duration: 3 hours
• Use of reference materials: not allowed (closed-book exam)
• Passing score: minimum 70% correct answers

After achieving the required score, the candidate receives the international ICML Machine Lubricant Analyst Level III (MLA III) certification, confirming expert competencies in oil analysis, machinery condition monitoring, and management of diagnostic programs.

→ Exam details may be subject to change. The most up-to-date information is available on the ICML website.

Laboratory Lubricant Analyst Level I (LLA I) is the entry-level ICML certification for specialists involved in laboratory lubricant analysis and machinery condition diagnostics based on oil testing.

The certification confirms knowledge of basic oil testing methods, sample preparation, laboratory analysis procedures, and interpretation of results used in industrial equipment condition monitoring programs.

LLA I is primarily intended for oil laboratory employees, diagnosticians, and specialists performing lubricant testing and analysis as part of maintenance and reliability activities.

Education and Experience

To obtain the Laboratory Lubricant Analyst Level I (LLA I) certification, candidates must have:

• a minimum of 12 months of experience in laboratory testing and analysis of lubricants used for machinery condition monitoring,
• at least 1,200 hours of practical experience performing laboratory tests and analyses.

The experience should include actual work with oil samples and performing analyses that support the assessment of equipment condition.

Training

Candidates must complete 24 hours of documented training aligned with the knowledge requirements defined in the LLA I Body of Knowledge.

For online training or recorded training materials, the required training time may also include:

• practical exercises,
• laboratory assignments,
• practice tests,
• revision materials.

However, the total time allocated to these activities cannot exceed 4 hours of the required 24 hours of training.

Candidates should have documentation confirming completion of the training, including:

• participant’s name and surname,
• trainer’s name, surname, and signature,
• training dates,
• total number of completed training hours.

Exam

The Laboratory Lubricant Analyst Level I (LLA I) certification exam consists of 70 multiple-choice questions designed to assess the candidate’s knowledge of laboratory lubricant analysis and the use of test results in machinery condition monitoring.

Key information:

• Number of questions: 70
• Exam format: multiple-choice test
• Duration: 2 hours
• Use of reference materials: not allowed (closed-book exam)
• Passing score: minimum 70% correct answers

After achieving the required score, the candidate receives the international ICML Laboratory Lubricant Analyst Level I (LLA I) certification, confirming competencies in performing basic laboratory oil analyses and using test results for machinery diagnostics.

→ Exam details may be subject to change. The most up-to-date information is available on the ICML website.

Laboratory Lubricant Analyst Level II (LLA II) is an advanced ICML certification level for laboratory specialists involved in the testing and analysis of lubricants used for machinery condition monitoring.

The LLA II certification confirms advanced competencies in performing laboratory analyses, evaluating lubricant quality, and interpreting test results that support the diagnostics of industrial equipment.

LLA II is intended for experienced laboratory analysts responsible for the accuracy of testing processes, the quality of results, and providing reliable data used in machinery reliability programs.

Education and Experience

To obtain the Laboratory Lubricant Analyst Level II (LLA II) certification, candidates must have:

• a minimum of 24 months of experience in laboratory testing and analysis of lubricants used for machinery condition monitoring,
• at least 2,400 hours of practical experience performing laboratory tests and analyses.

Additionally, candidates must meet one of the following requirements:

• hold a Laboratory Lubricant Analyst Level I (LLA I) certification,
• or take the exam as a Mature Entry Candidate without holding the LLA I certification.

For the Mature Entry Candidate pathway, candidates must document:

• an additional 12 months of professional experience in laboratory lubricant testing and analysis,
• a minimum of 1,200 additional hours of practical testing and analysis,
• a minimum of 24 hours of training covering topics aligned with the LLA I Body of Knowledge.

This results in a minimum total requirement of:

• 36 months of professional experience,
• 3,600 hours of practical laboratory work.

Training

Candidates must complete 24 hours of documented training aligned with the knowledge requirements defined in the LLA II Body of Knowledge.

LLA II training builds upon the previous preparation required for the LLA I certification or the Mature Entry Candidate pathway.

The total required documented training time includes:

• 24 hours – LLA I or training required for the Mature Entry Candidate pathway,
• 24 hours – LLA II,
• 48 hours of training in total.

For online training or recorded training materials, the required training time may also include:

• practical exercises,
• laboratory assignments,
• practice tests,
• revision materials.

However, the total time allocated to these activities cannot exceed 4 hours of the required 24 hours of LLA II training.

Candidates should have training documentation including:

• participant’s name and surname,
• trainer’s name, surname, and signature,
• training dates,
• number of completed training hours.

Exam

The Laboratory Lubricant Analyst Level II (LLA II) certification exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions designed to assess the candidate’s advanced knowledge of laboratory lubricant analysis.

Key information:

• Number of questions: 100
• Exam format: multiple-choice test
• Duration: 3 hours
• Use of reference materials: not allowed (closed-book exam)
• Passing score: minimum 70% correct answers

After achieving the required score, the candidate receives the international ICML Laboratory Lubricant Analyst Level II (LLA II) certification, confirming advanced competencies in laboratory oil diagnostics and providing data that supports the reliability of industrial equipment.

→ Exam details may be subject to change. The most up-to-date information is available on the ICML website.

Machinery Lubrication Engineer (MLE) is an advanced ICML certification designed for professionals responsible for designing, developing, and managing lubrication management strategies in industrial organizations.

The certification confirms broad engineering knowledge in machinery lubrication, lubricant selection, contamination control, reliability analysis, and the development of programs that optimize equipment operation and performance.

MLE is primarily intended for engineers, maintenance leaders, reliability specialists, and professionals responsible for implementing and developing Machinery Lubrication Excellence strategies in industrial facilities.

Unlike technical MLT certifications and analytical MLA certifications, the MLE certification focuses on a strategic and engineering level – covering not only the execution of analyses and lubrication tasks but also the design, management, and continuous improvement of the entire lubrication management program.

Education and Experience

To obtain the Machinery Lubrication Engineer (MLE) certification, candidates must have at least 5 years of education or professional experience (post-secondary education or practical experience) in one or more of the following areas:

• engineering,
• maintenance and servicing of mechanical equipment,
• technical occupations related to machine operation,
• lubrication management,
• oil analysis,
• machinery condition monitoring.

Engineering education and previous ICML certifications are not required to take the MLE exam.

However, holding certifications from previous levels, such as:

• Machine Lubricant Analyst (MLA),
• Machinery Lubrication Technician (MLT),

can significantly support exam preparation by providing practical knowledge of oil analysis, maintenance practices, and machinery lubrication management.

Training

ICML does not define a mandatory number of training hours or require completion of a specific preparatory course before taking the MLE exam.

However, candidates are encouraged to use available preparation methods, such as:

• specialized lubrication management training,
• MLE exam preparation courses,
• ICML educational materials and study guides,
• practical experience in managing lubrication programs.

Preparation should correspond with the official MLE Body of Knowledge, which defines the topics covered during the exam.

Exam

The Machinery Lubrication Engineer (MLE) certification exam is one of the most demanding ICML exams and assesses comprehensive knowledge of designing and managing lubrication management programs.

Key information:

• Number of questions: 150
• Exam format: multiple-choice test
• Duration: 4 hours
• Use of reference materials: not allowed (closed-book exam)
• Passing score: minimum 70% correct answers

Due to the exam duration (4 hours), its organization may require additional arrangements, especially when conducted as part of an examination session that includes other ICML certifications.

After achieving the required score, the candidate receives the prestigious ICML Machinery Lubrication Engineer (MLE) certification, confirming competencies in strategic lubrication management and machinery reliability optimization.

→ Exam details may be subject to change. The most up-to-date information is available on the ICML website.

Varnish Prevention and Removal (VPR) is a specialized ICML certification focused on the formation of deposits and varnish in oil systems, as well as methods for preventing their formation and effectively removing them.

The certification confirms knowledge of the mechanisms behind the formation of varnish contaminants, their impact on equipment reliability, and methods used to reduce the risk of failures and improve lubrication system cleanliness.

VPR is particularly relevant for specialists involved in the operation and maintenance of equipment such as turbines, compressors, hydraulic systems, and other machinery requiring high levels of oil cleanliness.

Education and Experience

To obtain the Varnish Prevention and Removal (VPR) certification, candidates must meet one of the following requirements:

• hold a Machine Lubricant Analyst Level I (MLA I) certification,
• or hold a Machinery Lubrication Technician Level I (MLT I) certification,
• or have a minimum of 1 year of professional experience working with industrial lubricants and knowledge covering the topics defined in the Varnish and Deposit Prevention and Removal Body of Knowledge.

The VPR certification is intended for professionals with basic knowledge of machinery lubrication who want to expand their competencies in the area of deposit control and lubricant degradation products.

Training

ICML does not define a mandatory number of training hours or require completion of a specific preparatory course before taking the VPR exam.

However, candidates are encouraged to prepare based on the official Varnish and Deposit Prevention and Removal Body of Knowledge, which covers topics including:

• mechanisms of varnish and deposit formation in lubricants,
• factors affecting lubricant degradation,
• methods for detecting and assessing contamination levels,
• techniques for preventing deposit formation,
• methods for removing lubricant degradation products.

Exam

The Varnish Prevention and Removal (VPR) certification exam consists of 25 multiple-choice questions designed to assess the candidate’s knowledge of deposit prevention and removal methods.

Key information:

• Number of questions: 25
• Exam format: multiple-choice test
• Duration: 45 minutes
• Use of reference materials: not allowed (closed-book exam)
• Passing score: minimum 70% correct answers

After achieving the required score, the candidate receives the ICML Varnish Prevention and Removal (VPR) certification, confirming specialized knowledge in deposit control and maintaining high cleanliness levels in oil systems.

→ Exam details may be subject to change. The most up-to-date information is available on the ICML website.

Varnish Identification and Measurement (VIM) is a specialized ICML certification focused on the identification, assessment, and measurement of varnish deposits formed in oil systems.

The certification confirms knowledge of methods used to detect oil degradation products, assess contamination levels, and interpret test results that help determine risks associated with the presence of deposits in lubrication systems.

VIM is intended for specialists involved in machinery reliability, oil diagnostics, and lubrication system cleanliness management – particularly for equipment sensitive to varnish and deposit formation, such as turbines, compressors, and precision hydraulic systems.

Education and experience

To obtain the Varnish Identification and Measurement (VIM) certification, candidates must meet one of the following requirements:

• hold the Machine Lubricant Analyst Level I (MLA I) certification,
• or hold the Machinery Lubrication Technician Level I (MLT I) certification,
• or have a minimum of 1 year of professional experience working with industrial lubricants and knowledge covering the topics defined in the Varnish Identification and Measurement Body of Knowledge.

The VIM certification is intended for professionals with basic knowledge of machinery lubrication who want to develop their skills in identifying and assessing problems resulting from the presence of deposits in lubricating oils.

Training

ICML does not specify a mandatory number of training hours or require completion of a specific preparatory course before taking the VIM exam.

Candidates are encouraged to prepare based on the official Varnish Identification and Measurement Body of Knowledge, which covers topics including:

• mechanisms of oil degradation product formation,
• methods for identifying varnish deposits,
• techniques for measuring and assessing deposit levels,
• interpretation of oil analysis results,
• the impact of contaminants on equipment reliability.

Exam

The Varnish Identification and Measurement (VIM) certification exam consists of 25 multiple-choice questions that assess the candidate’s knowledge of identifying and measuring deposits formed in lubricants.

Key information:

• Number of questions: 25
• Exam format: multiple-choice test
• Duration: 45 minutes
• Use of reference materials: no (closed-book exam)
• Passing score: minimum 70% correct answers

After achieving the required score, the candidate receives the ICML Varnish Identification and Measurement (VIM) certification, confirming specialized knowledge in the detection and assessment of oil deposits and their impact on machinery reliability.

 
→ Exam details may change. Current information is available on the ICML website.

Food Processing Lubrication (FPL) is a specialized ICML certification focused on lubrication management in food processing facilities and industries requiring strict hygiene control and production process safety standards.

The certification confirms knowledge of the principles of proper selection, application, and control of lubricants used in the food processing industry, with particular emphasis on product safety requirements, contamination prevention, and machinery reliability.

FPL is intended for maintenance specialists, engineers, technicians, and professionals responsible for lubrication management in food processing, beverage, pharmaceutical, and other industries requiring high cleanliness standards.

Education and experience

To obtain the Food Processing Lubrication (FPL) certification, candidates must meet one of the following requirements:

• hold the Machine Lubricant Analyst Level I (MLA I) certification,
• or hold the Machinery Lubrication Technician Level I (MLT I) certification,
• or have a minimum of 1 year of professional experience working with industrial lubricants and knowledge covering the topics defined in the Food Processing Lubrication Body of Knowledge.

The FPL certification is intended for professionals with basic knowledge of machinery lubrication who want to develop their skills in the specific requirements of lubricating machinery operating in the food processing industry.

Training

ICML does not specify a mandatory number of training hours or require completion of a specific preparatory course before taking the FPL exam.

Candidates are encouraged to prepare based on the official Food Processing Lubrication Body of Knowledge, which covers topics including:

• requirements for lubricants used in the food processing industry,
• principles of using food-grade oils and greases approved for food processing applications,
• product contamination risk control,
• best practices for lubrication management in production facilities,
• the impact of proper lubrication on equipment safety and reliability.

Exam

The Food Processing Lubrication (FPL) certification exam consists of 25 multiple-choice questions that assess the candidate’s knowledge of lubrication management principles in the food processing industry.

Key information:

• Number of questions: 25
• Exam format: multiple-choice test
• Duration: 45 minutes
• Use of reference materials: no (closed-book exam)
• Passing score: minimum 70% correct answers

After achieving the required score, the candidate receives the ICML Food Processing Lubrication (FPL) certification, confirming specialized knowledge in safe and effective lubrication management in food processing facilities.

 
→ Exam details may change. Current information is available on the ICML website.

Grease Lubrication Certification (GLC) is a specialized ICML certification focused on proper grease lubrication management and the principles of grease selection, storage, application, and control in industrial equipment.

The certification confirms knowledge of key aspects related to the use of lubricating greases, including the impact of grease properties on machinery reliability, proper grease application, and best practices for reducing the risk of failures caused by improper lubrication.

GLC is intended for technicians, mechanics, maintenance specialists, and professionals responsible for operating equipment where bearings and other components requiring grease lubrication are used.

Education and experience

To obtain the Grease Lubrication Certification (GLC), candidates are not required to meet specific professional experience or work history requirements.

Candidates should independently assess their level of preparation and competence against the knowledge requirements defined in the GLC Body of Knowledge, also using guidance from instructors or professional supervisors when needed.

The GLC certification is available both to individuals beginning to develop their grease lubrication skills and to experienced professionals who want to formally confirm their knowledge.

Training

Candidates must complete a minimum of 5 hours of documented training covering the topics defined in the GLC Body of Knowledge.

The required training time may also include:

• online training or recorded educational materials,
• practical exercises,
• practice tests,
• review materials.

The time allocated for these activities cannot exceed 1 hour of the required 5 hours of training.

Training documentation submitted to ICML should include:

• participant’s name and surname,
• instructor’s name, surname, and signature,
• training completion dates,
• number of completed training hours.

Exam

The Grease Lubrication Certification (GLC) exam consists of 70 multiple-choice questions that assess the candidate’s knowledge of proper grease application and grease lubrication management.

Key information:

• Number of questions: 70
• Exam format: multiple-choice test
• Duration: 2 hours
• Use of reference materials: no (closed-book exam)
• Passing score: minimum 70% correct answers

After achieving the required score, the candidate receives the ICML Grease Lubrication Certification (GLC), confirming competence in effective grease lubrication management and the application of best practices that improve machinery reliability.

 
→ Exam details may change. Current information is available on the ICML website.

Application Lubrication Certification (ALC) is a specialized ICML certification focused on the proper application of lubricants in operational practice and the principles of effective machine lubrication management.

The certification confirms knowledge of the fundamental principles related to lubricant application, including the proper selection of lubrication methods, control of lubricant quantities, prevention of common operational errors, and implementation of best practices that improve equipment reliability.

ALC is intended for individuals performing or supervising lubrication activities, particularly maintenance technicians, machine operators, mechanics, and specialists responsible for daily machine operation.

Education and Experience

To obtain the Application Lubrication Certification (ALC), candidates are not required to meet any specific requirements regarding professional experience or years of service.

Candidates should independently assess their preparation and competencies against the knowledge requirements defined in the ALC Body of Knowledge, also taking into account guidance from instructors or professional supervisors.

The ALC certification is intended both for individuals beginning their development in machinery lubrication and for specialists who want to organize and formally confirm their knowledge of proper lubricant application practices.

Training

Candidates must meet one of the following training requirements:

• complete 10 hours of documented training covering the knowledge requirements defined in the ALC Body of Knowledge,
• or complete the General Lubrication Concepts (GLC) training course (5 hours) and an additional 5 hours of documented training aligned with the ALC Body of Knowledge.

The required training time may also include:

• online training or recorded educational materials,
• practical exercises,
• practice exams,
• review materials.

The time allocated to these activities cannot exceed 1 hour of the required training duration.

Training documentation submitted to ICML should include:

• participant’s full name,
• instructor’s full name and signature,
• training dates,
• total number of completed training hours.

Exam

The Application Lubrication Certification (ALC) exam consists of 70 multiple-choice questions assessing the candidate’s knowledge of proper lubricant application and practical aspects of machinery lubrication.

Key information:

• Number of questions: 70
• Exam format: multiple-choice test
• Duration: 2 hours
• Use of reference materials: not allowed (closed-book exam)
• Passing score: minimum 70% correct answers

After achieving the required score, the candidate receives the ICML Application Lubrication Certification (ALC), confirming knowledge of proper lubricant application principles and best practices supporting machinery reliability.

 
→ Exam details may change. Current information is available on the ICML website.