To be certified as a Weather Observer by the National Weather Service (NWS), the individual must complete training and pass a demonstration of ability as well as a written exam. The individual must be employed or have an offer of employment before being allowed to take the exam. Once certified, as long as the person practices the profession of weather observation, the certification remains valid. Further information can be found at the web page http://www.weather.gov/directives/010/pd01013004a.pdf.