Xactimate Level 1 Certification
Xactimate Level 1 is the entry-level certification that validates foundational proficiency with Xactimate estimating software, including navigation, line item selection, basic sketching, and estimate creation.
Prerequisites
- Access to Xactimate software (subscription required)
- Basic familiarity with Xactimate navigation and estimate creation
Exam details
The Level 1 exam tests foundational Xactimate skills: navigating the interface, selecting and adding line items, using the sketch tool, and creating a basic estimate. The exam is proctored through Xactware's certification platform. Check xactware.com for current exam format, duration, and passing requirements.
Cost
Check the Xactware website (xactware.com) for current Level 1 certification exam pricing.
Renewal period
Check xactware.com for the current policy on certification validity and whether recertification is required for new software versions.
Continuing education
No formal CE requirement is publicly listed for Level 1, but maintaining proficiency with software updates is recommended. Check xactware.com for any policy changes.
Career relevance
Level 1 certification is the minimum Xactimate credential and demonstrates that you can use the software at a functional level. For new adjusters, estimators, and restoration project managers, it signals baseline competency to employers and carriers. It is a starting point, not an endpoint.
The Entry Point for Xactimate Proficiency
Xactimate Level 1 certification validates that you can use Xactimate at a foundational level. It tests your ability to navigate the software, select line items from the pricing database, use the sketch tool, and create a basic insurance restoration estimate. For adjusters, estimators, and project managers entering the insurance restoration industry, Level 1 is the starting credential that demonstrates software competency.
Xactimate is not intuitive for first-time users. The software has a deep feature set, a large line item database organized by categories, and a sketching engine that requires practice to use efficiently. Level 1 certification proves you have invested the time to learn the fundamentals.
What the Level 1 Exam Tests
The Level 1 exam covers the core skills needed to build an estimate in Xactimate:
- Software navigation: Moving through the Xactimate interface, accessing different modules, and managing estimate files.
- Line item selection: Finding and adding the correct line items from Xactimate's pricing database, which contains thousands of items organized by trade and category.
- Sketch tool: Using Xactimate's built-in sketching tool to create room-level diagrams that auto-calculate areas and quantities.
- Estimate assembly: Building a complete estimate with appropriate line items, quantities, and notes.
Check xactware.com for the most current exam content outline, as the specifics may be updated when new Xactimate versions are released.
Who Should Get Level 1 Certified
Level 1 is appropriate for new adjusters entering the field, restoration company employees who need to read and create estimates, project managers who review scopes of work, and anyone whose job requires regular interaction with Xactimate files. If you receive .ESX files from carriers and need to understand and respond to them, Level 1 proficiency is the minimum bar.
How to Get Level 1 Certified
Visit xactware.com for exam registration, pricing, and preparation materials. Xactware offers training courses that align with the certification exams. The most effective preparation is hands-on practice building estimates in the software. Create sample projects, experiment with the sketch tool, and build familiarity with the line item database before sitting for the exam.
Frequently asked questions
Level 1 tests foundational proficiency: navigating the Xactimate interface, adding and editing line items, using the sketch tool to create basic diagrams, and assembling a complete estimate. It validates that you can use the software at a functional level.
Practice using Xactimate regularly. Xactware offers training courses and materials on xactware.com. Build sample estimates, practice with the sketch tool, and familiarize yourself with the line item database. Hands-on experience with the software is the best preparation.
Level 1 demonstrates baseline competency. If your role involves writing complex estimates, using macros, or managing large-scale claims, pursuing higher certification levels will better reflect your skills. For entry-level positions, Level 1 is a solid starting credential.
Convert your PDF estimates to ESX
Upload a PDF estimate. CapOut processes it and sends it directly to your Xactimate account.
Get started free
No credit card required