To be a 'real' Santa, you must be trained in Santa Claus skills. The role of Santa is one of the most influential characters to a child in their lifetime and mastering that iconic role benefits from training in how to deal with children who are scared, having a temper tantrum, and not knowing what he or she wants for Christmas.

Certification curriculums for Master Santas include the history of Santa, voice training, etiquette, costumes, makeup, role playing and more.

The first training class for Santa's was held in 1937 in Midland, Michigan and continues today. The Charles W. Howard Santa Claus School is the longest continuously running Santa Claus School.

There are many other schools for training you to "be" Santa.

The Santa School in Calgary, Alberta

The Thompson Santa School in the UK

The International University for Santa Claus holds their School4Santas all over the world and claims to be the world's largest international school for Santa's.

The cost for being Santa certified? From $300 to $500. Suit and supplies are extra.