Certifications are proof the holder of a certification passed some type of exam; for example, drivers getting a license or a lawyer passing the bar exam. It is not training or proof of training but rather evidence of skill. Someone can have a lot of training but still not be proficient. Certification is evidence of proficiency.
This could be important for legal reasons. It is illegal to drive or practice law without a license. In the roofing industry, it is not illegal to work without a certification. So why would someone seek to be NRCA PROCertified®? Being certified shows others that a certified roofing worker is proficient and demonstrates the certified individual cares enough about his or her skill and trade to reach the bar of certification.
Certification is a mark of pride and skill—both of which are important, even if not driven by legality or other requirements.
