Technical certificates are issued to persons who have completed a specialized course of study that is related to specific vocational skills. Referred to as Vocational Related Qualifications (VRQ), a technical certificate is proof that the individual has been exposed to information that is vital to the performance of tasks associated with certain professions or jobs, and has assimilated that information to the satisfaction of the institution that issued the certificates.

Generally, obtaining a technical certificate involves commitment to a minimum number of hours in a classroom, and the pursuit of specified courses that are considered necessary before the training period is considered complete. Some technical certificate courses of study may involved some sort of activity outside the classroom as well, such as an apprenticeship in a job or profession that is relevant to the subject matter. It is usually possible to pace the course work to accommodate other time commitments. This makes it possible to pursue a technical certificate while continuing to work full or part time and engage in family responsibilities and activities.

For people who are pursuing a technical certificate that is related to a job or profession that he or she is already performing, some issuing institutions will provide what is called a restricted technical certificate. The restricted certificate recognizes that the individual has life experience that is relevant to the subject matter of the course of study, and provides documentation to that effect. People who hold a restricted technical certificate may continue to pursue a full certificate, with the required number of in-class hours and the range of courses reduced.

The exact requirements for obtaining a technical certificate will vary from one institution to another. However, the benefits of having a technical certificate are somewhat like those of holding a college degree. The tech certificate is helpful in demonstrating to prospective employers or clients that the individual does possess a certified working knowledge of matters that are directly connected to the tasks involved in the job or career path involved.