ALA is an acronym for the American Lighting Association, an organization that provides training and certification for lighting specialists. The association offers a Residential Lighting Training Manual that covers all aspects of the residential lighting industry, including trends, technology, and technical developments. Members can choose to do self-study or attend a four-day Residential Lighting Training Course offered at least once each year. To become a Lighting Specialist (LS), members must purchase and review the Residential Lighting Training Manual and pass a final exam. The LS final exam may be taken online, and a score of at least 80 percent is required to become an ALA Lighting Specialist. However, it is important to note that certification is only available to ALA members.