Verification
How can I show proof of certification?
CCO certifications cards issued in 2022 or later include a QR code to verify certification. Cards without a QR code may be verified using the Verify CCO Online (VCO) system
What is the Verify CCO Online (VCO) system?
VCO is a free online tool available at www.verifycco.org that is designed to help stakeholders verify the status of CCO certificants. Certification can be verified by typing the Candidate ID (7 digit number), Certification Number, or by scanning the QR Code on cards issued 2022 or later.
Is a printout from VCO the same as a certification card?
No. Just as a copy of a certification card should not be accepted as proof of certification, a printout from the VCO should not be accepted without going online to verify. However, employers may choose to look up certified staff and print the certification information to include in the employees’ personnel files.
If one person holds certification in multiple categories (for example, operator and inspector), do I have to know both certification numbers to verify certifications?
No, looking up one certification number will return all certification categories that person is certified in.
How quickly is VCO updated?
VCO is updated once all the requirements for certification have been met and within minutes of the record being updated.
What if the certification number I’ve entered doesn’t produce information on a certified individual?
If you have entered and double-checked the certification number and VCO still does not recognize it, please call Customer Service at 703-560-2391 for further information.
If an individual adds a certification but doesn’t pay for an updated card, will the certification show up in VCO?
Yes, a certificant does not need to receive an updated card for the certification to show up in VCO.
Why can’t I search by certificant name?
The purpose of VCO is to verify information about the certification status of an individual when the actual card is not available. For privacy and security reasons, VCO is not able to return lists of certified personnel.
Next FAQ topic: Recertification
Back to FAQ menu