Who is the certifying official during training?

• A. First Sergeant
• B. Commander
• C. S-3
• D. Executive Officer

Answer: (B)

The person who has the authority to certify training readiness is the Commander. In a unit, the Commander bears the final responsibility for whether soldiers have met all required standards and are ready to move on to the next phase. The Certifying Official signs off on training completion and readiness, validating that safety, evaluation, and performance criteria were met.

The First Sergeant focuses on day-to-day leadership, accountability, and welfare and can provide crucial input on a trainee’s progress, but does not grant the official sign-off. The S-3 plans and coordinates training and may prepare the readiness documentation, while the Executive Officer supports the Commander’s staff process; neither typically signs the official certification unless explicitly delegated. Delegation can occur, but the authority ultimately rests with the Commander.