MTNA certification is a process that validates an individual's qualifications for a specific field of professional practice. It demonstrates to employers, clients, and peers that which the individual knows and is able to do. It signifies commitment to continued excellence in professional practice. In addition, it increases visibility, builds credibility, provides a goal for personal professional achievement, and validates expertise for the individual and to those outside the field. The MTNA Professional Certification program exists for teachers who teach music students of any age level in private or group settings. The program is based upon a set of five standards defining what a competent music teacher should know and be able to do:

• Standard I: Professional Preparation

• Standard II: Professional Teaching Practices

• Standard III: Professional Business Management

• Standard IV: Professionalism and Partnerships

• Standard V: Professional and Personal Renewal

Upon fulfillment of these standards, applicants are granted the MTNA Professional Certification credential with the designation, Nationally Certified Teacher of Music (NCTM). In order to maintain the MTNA Professional Certification credential and designation, NCTM‘s must continue fulfilling the program‘s standards through a renewal process.