To ensure the highest level of qualification, professional landmen can attain three different levels of certification, as established by the American Association of Professional Landmen (AAPL). Since its establishment in 1956, the AAPL has worked to preserve high standards of performance for industry professionals and promote responsible stewardship of mineral and energy resources. Currently the organization counts 17,000 landmen and land related professionals as memebers in its 46 affiliated local associations. Aspiring landmen can acquire the following certifications before being recognized as industry-leading professionals.
AAPL Certifications
Whether you’re interested in becoming a land professional or want to further your career as an expert in the field, the AAPL created three distinct certifications to facilitate the process.
- Initial. Individuals with experience as landmen, and who belong to the AAPL, are eligible to sit for the Registered Landman (RL) certification exam. In addition to submitting an application, interested landmen must receive sponsorship from an industry professional with a CPL or RPL certification. Applicants are tested on their proficiency in landwork fundamentals, oil and gas leases, ethics, contract law and real property law.
- Mid-level. Those with more than five years of experience as landmen may consider earning the Registered Professional Landman (RPL) certification from AAPL. Applicants must have spent at least one year as a member of AAPL and obtain sponsorship from three senior landmen. They may be eligible to reduce these requirements if a post-secondary degree is obtained. The exam necessary for certification tests an applicant’s practical experience and knowledge of landwork.
- Top distinction. As the top distinction for land professionals, the AAPL’s Certified Professional Landman (CPL) exam is designed for senior professionals with at least seven years of experience. Earning the CPL requires a four year college degree, sponsorship from three CPLs, and attendance at an oil and gas land review seminar prior to sitting for the exam. Individuals who pass the exam and become a CPL are considered the industry’s leading professionals in landwork.
Practice Standards for Landmen
Despite level of experience or certification, professional landmen are required to abide by the AAPL’s standards of practice and code of ethics. At any professional level, landmen must take care to protect the public from fraud and misrepresentation while maintaining ethical standards in every interaction. For employers, hiring certified landmen provides peace of mind that they’re working with dedicated professionals with documented experience and expertise. Furthermore, professional landmen are required to stay in-the-know about the latest laws, legislation and regulations affecting land.
To learn more about the AAPL’s CPL program, visit http://www.landman.org/ or click the button below and download a free copy of the Landman Survival Guide.
