NCLB Overview | Initial Certification | Exam Preparation Materials | Fees
| Recertification | Policy and Statistical Reports | Find NCLB Certificants by State

 

NCLB Initial Certification Information

The National Certification in Literary Braille (NCLB) is a five-year renewable certification awarded to those who successfully pass all four sections of the National Literary Braille Competency Test (NLBCT). . Although the test can be taken by anyone, it is intended primarily for teachers of braille and future teachers of braille. Individuals who are interested in applying for NCLB certification are strongly encouraged to download and read the entire NCLB Candidate Guide for full details. What follows here is an overview of the test structure, application information, what to expect, and how to prepare for the exam.

 

Structure of the Test

The NLBCT is a written examination that tests an applicant’s ability to read, write, and understand literary braille. The examination consists of four sections; specifically:

1. Braille Writing - using a braillewriter
2. Braille Writing - using a slate and stylus
3. Proofreading - identifying braille errors
4. Multiple Choice - correct braille usage and rules

 

Eligibility

There are no prerequisites for taking the National Certification in Literary Braille exam. However, it is presumed that applicants have received adequate preparation in learning to read and write literary braille.

 

Application Process

Applications are specific to test dates and locations. Click on the link on your preferred date and location. Applications to retest failed sections of the exam will be accepted at any of the test dates and locations listed on the Application page. No applications will be accepted after the registration deadline and are not complete until the NBPCB has received all fees (unless other arrangements have been approved by the NBPCB).

 

Accommodations

Requests for accommodations based on disability must be documented by a qualified professional and be received by the NBPCB office at least thirty (30) days prior to the test date for approval. Any candidate who has a disability that prevents them from taking the test under standard testing conditions, may request reasonable modifications. Some accommodations may not be available at all test sites.

The use of the following items have been pre-approved for blind or visually impaired candidates, and do not require additional documentation:

  • Hand-held magnifier
  • Closed Circuit Television (CCTV)
  • Felt-tip marker
  • WikiStix
  • Additional personal light

 

Examination Process

Candidates will have a maximum of six (6) hours to complete the test: two (2) hours for Braillewriter; one (1) hour for Slate & Stylus; two (2) hours for Proofreading; and one (1) hour for Multiple Choice. Breaks and a one hour lunch will be scheduled, candidates are responsible to obtain their own food/beverages.

Scores will be mailed to the candidate within 6 to 8 weeks of completing all sections of the exam. Candidates will receive pass/fail scores for each of the four test sections. The NBPCB will also send score reports to up to three other institutions designated by the candidate. If an applicant does not pass the certification examination on the first attempt, he/she may retake part, or all, of the exam at any of the scheduled test sites.

 

Preparing for the Exam

The exam covers contracted literary braille. The official reference for the exam is the 1994 edition of EBAE as revised in 2002, available for purchase from the American Printing House for the Blind (APH). Although use of any more recent changes to the braille code is welcome, at this time candidates will not be held responsible for changes made after 2002. Not all of EBAE is covered in the test.  The following are helpful tips for preparation:

  • Studying a literary braille instruction manual
  • Taking a college course in braille
  • Taking the Library of Congress course in braille transcribing through Lesson fifteen
  • Reading recently published literary braille
  • Writing literary braille using both a braillewriter and a slate & stylus

 

For more information about preparing for the exam, including the sample test and additional practice materials, see our Exam Preparation Materials page.

  • Before the day of the test, be sure to read the document “How to Study for the Exam,” to be sure you have covered all relevant materials.
  • Also, make sure to read, “What to Bring” at least one week prior to your scheduled test.
  •  Finally, if you have additional questions, or need more information (such as how to request test accommodations), you can contact the NBPCB Office at: 318-257-4554, at admin@nbpcb.org, or by writing to us at 101 South Trenton Street, Ruston, LA, 71270.