This guide was prepared to assist vocational teachers in developing and implementing competency-based education in their classrooms and laboratories throughout secondary vocational and adult programs in Virginia. The guide may also (1) provide general and specific information on competency-based education (CBE); (2) serve as a resource for inservice workshops; (3) serve as a resource manual for preservice and inservice teacher education courses; (4) provide specific information on CBE materials, formats, and resources used in vocational and adult programs; and (5) serve as a guide for developing and revising vocational programs to meet Virginia CBE standards. The guide is divided into six major sections. The first section provides general information concerning CBE principles, characteristics, and requirements for vocational programs. The next four sections parallel Virginia CBE standards and provide specific information, sample materials, and 10 suggested steps for implementing CBE. Topics covered include identifying competencies and developing objectives, individualizing, using instructional methods, selecting instructional materials, measuring learning, developing tests, testing procedures, and managing competency records. The final section of the guide includes information on instructional resources and materials available for implementing CBE. Sample materials and a bibliography complete the document. (KC)