Step One: All applicants going through the exam process begin with a standardized application facilitated through the SurveyMonkey Apply platform. Applicants begin the process by submitting the union application form and an application and filing fee ($200). Upon submission of these materials, the candidate’s eligibility for membership is verified by the USA 829 Business Office.

Step Two: The applicant then submits a comprehensive resume detailing work experience, education, and relevant skills and three letters of recommendation from industry professionals (one of which must be from a USA 829 member in good standing). There are also supplemental materials that an applicant must provide depending on the craft.

Sound Design candidates will be asked to provide a portfolio of their sound design work. More information about the portfolio requirements will be provided by the appropriate examination committee.

Generally speaking, candidates should be prepared to provide a comprehensive resume and three letters of recommendation from industry professionals (including one from a USA 829 member in good standing). Additional supplemental materials, including a portfolio, may be required in addition to these materials. More information about the portfolio requirements will be provided by the appropriate examination committee.

Key dates and deadlines for the examination process are determined by each regional examination committee. Please reference the information below.

Eastern Region (Alabama, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Vermont, Virginia, West Virginia, District of Columbia, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and members living abroad)

Contact the Eastern Region Examination Committee for more information.

Central Region (Arkansas, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Michigan, Mississippi, Missouri, Minnesota, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Wisconsin and the Provinces of Manitoba, Ontario and Quebec)

Western Region (Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Utah, Washington, Wyoming and the Provinces of Alberta, British Columbia and Saskatchewan)

All application materials should be received by one of the following dates:

• March 1, 2026
• July 1, 2026
• November 1, 2026