Get certified as a CNC machinist in Texas

See the work

What CNC machinists do all day, the training and the pay nationwide, in about 90 seconds.

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Video from CareerOneStop, sponsored by the U.S. Department of Labor. Tap CC on the player for captions. On CareerOneStop ↗

The steps in Texas

1. Step 1NIMS CNC Mill or Lathe OperationsStart here
2. Step 2NIMS CNC Programming, Setup and Operations

1. 1

   NIMS CNC Mill or Lathe Operations

   Issued by NIMS

   Run a CNC mill or lathe: a written exam plus machining a part to print, taken where NIMS-registered staff can test you.

   Requirements and costs, from NIMS

   You need

   • “You can earn any credential any time as long as you have access to the right equipment and personnel (i.e. account administrators, proctor, evaluator).” NIMS ↗

   Exam

   • “Project – machine an industry-designed NIMS part to print specifications” NIMS ↗

   Full details on NIMS's site ↗
2. 2

   NIMS CNC Programming, Setup and Operations

   Issued by NIMS

   Program and set up the machine yourself: the next NIMS credential for mill or lathe.

   Requirements and costs, from NIMS

   You need

   • NIMS's CNC Milling Specialist stack: Measurement, Materials and Safety; Job Planning, Benchwork, and Layout; CNC Mill Operations; CNC Mill Programming, Setup, and Operations NIMS ↗

Good to know

• “Machinists and tool and die makers typically gain competency through on-the-job training or an apprenticeship.” BLS ↗
• “Completing a certification program, though optional, allows machinists and tool and die makers to demonstrate competency and may be helpful for advancement.” BLS ↗
• “To earn a credential, student must pass both theory and hands-on assessment.” NIMS ↗
• “NIMS credentials earned on or after June 30, 2026, are valid for five years.” NIMS ↗
• One test $80; two tests $110; one-year subscription $125 (up to 10 tests) NIMS ↗

What CNC machinists earn in Texas