www.mecp.com should have all the answers.

I took the level one while over at the Installers Institute taking an advanced fab class. Really didn't intend to, but the rest of the class was taking it, since they were part of the full training schedule at II. Since I had to sit there while they took it, I figured I'd might as well. I think it was like $50, with the study guide. Level 1 is actually only good for year, and then you are supposed to take the advanced test. I haven't gotten around to that yet.

Like John said, not rocket science. How much you'll have to study depends on how much you already know about stuff like ohms law, relays, safety, etc. IMO, the study guide is pretty good, and makes a good resource if you aren't familiar with these things, and even if you are, its still good.

It ended up being a good thing that I took it, because Pioneer wants at least one MECP person at your site before you can carry the line.

As a shop owner, I wouldn't necessarily pay more to someone with MECP, but it would be an extra qualification come hiring time. I most likely wouldn't hire someone without this basic knowledge at all, but actually having MECP says to me 'hey, I'm serious enough about this field to go an extra step'.

Toby