What is an Acceptance Test Technician (ATT)?
The ATT is the individual who performs and documents the acceptance testing in the field. On a Title 24 project, the ATT runs the functional tests on the installed lighting controls and completes the compliance documentation that the building department relies on.
What is an Acceptance Test Employer (ATE)?
The ATE is the company or employer that oversees ATTs and holds accountability within the certification program. The ATE stands behind the quality of its technicians' testing and is the responsible party for the work.
The key rule: every ATT must be employed by a certified ATE — even self-employed technicians. If you work for yourself, you'll hold both credentials.
ATT vs ATE at a glance
The two roles work together: the technician performs the testing, and the employer is the certified company responsible for it. Here's how they compare:
| ATT — Technician | ATE — Employer | |
|---|---|---|
| Who it's for | The individual technician who performs the acceptance testing in the field. | The company or employer that oversees ATTs and holds program accountability. |
| What it lets you do | Perform and document Title 24 lighting-controls acceptance tests. | Employ certified ATTs and take responsibility for their acceptance-test work. |
| Key requirements | Complete NLCAA certification and work under a certified ATE — even if self-employed. | Certify as an employer and keep your field technicians certified as ATTs. |
| How to apply | Become an ATT | Become an ATE |
How to decide
Solo technician? You still need an ATE — self-employed testers certify as both the technician and the employer.
Running a company? Certify the business as an ATE and certify your field technicians as ATTs. That keeps every test your crew performs valid under the program.