If you are looking to enhance your standing in the industry, consider joining the American Association of Professional Landmen (AAPL). This is the largest organization of its kind in the country and gives landmen an opportunity for education, networking, and access to valuable resources.
About the AAPL
The AAPL consists of more than 21,000 landmen and related professionals. The organization has 44 local affiliated associations in the United States and Canada and is widely regarded as one of the foremost authorities in the landman profession.
The mission of the AAPL is to “promote the highest standards of performance for all land professionals, to advance their stature, and to encourage sound stewardship of energy and mineral resources.” One of the ways they do this is through education and certification.
Education & AAPL Certifications
The AAPL conveniently offers three distinct certifications to enhance credibility and authority in the industry. Each of these certifications is widely recognized and respected in the industry and requires a commitment to ongoing education. The three certifications are Registered Landman (RL), Registered Professional Landman (RPL), and Certified Professional Landman (CPL).
Registered Landman (RL)
The initial level of certification is Registered Landman (RL). This designation involves basic education, meeting monthly requirements, a commitment to education, and having a fundamental knowledge of the industry. Applicant requirements include being an active AAPL member, currently working in the landman industry, being sponsored by an RPL or CPL, submitting an application and fee, and passing a take-home exam.
Registered Professional Landman (RPL)
The second tier of AAPL certification is Registered Professional Landman (RPL). Noticeably more difficult than the RL certification, this level requires the applicant to be an active member of the AAPL for a minimum of one year. The applicant must be fully-engaged, working full time in the industry, and have at least four years of active performance in the industry. Additionally, an RPL candidate must be sponsored by three CPLs who must submit applications and references. An AAPL administered exam must be taken and passed with a minimum score of 70 on each individual part.
Certified Professional Landman (CPL)
The highest level of AAPL certification is Certified Professional Landman (CPL). This level requires a comprehensive proficiency, professionalism, and competency in the landman industry. To become CPL certified, an applicant must be currently working full-time in the field with at least seven credit years of experience in the field. To be considered, the applicant must have three CPL references, complete an application, attend the Oil and Gas Land Review Seminar, and pass the comprehensive exam with a score of 70 or better.
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