IAI Forensic Certifications
In 1977, the first IAI certification program was initiated for the Latent Print discipline. Since then, several other certification programs have been developed.
Each program consists of a rigorous educational process, a certification procedure, and re-certification requirements. Each is administered by a certification board comprised of experts in the discipline. All programs operate under a written set of procedures approved by the IAI's Board of Directors to ensure compliance with broad IAI goals and policies.
IAI Certification Program Operations Manual
Special Notice
Two changes have recently been made to all IAI certification programs that may affect some individuals currently certified. Those changes are as follows:
- For many years all IAI certification programs have had a one-year grace period for renewal following the expiration of certification. During that time, certification could be renewed without retesting or penalty. That one-year grace period was eliminated on September 1, 2010. Currently, there will be a 90-day grace period during which certification can be renewed for an additional fee of $50. If certification is not renewed within that 90-day period, the individual will need to take the test required of new applicants in order to reinstate certification.
- Many years ago some individuals were grandfathered into certification programs. Those individuals were not tested but were awarded certification based on experience, recommendations of peers, etc. Effective immediately, any grandfathered certificant who wishes to renew certification will be required to take the test currently in place for that certification. That is not a proficiency test but the test required of any new applicant to the program.
Questions? Please contact the secretary of the appropriate certification board for more information.
Certification Testing Fees
| IAI Members: | Non-Members: | |||
| Initial certification: | $200 (US) | Initial certification: | $300 (US) | |
| Recertification: | $200 (US) | Recertification: | $300 (US) | |
| Re-testing: | $200 (US) | Re-testing: | $300 (US) |
Local divisions will continue to receive $50.00 to defer costs relating to background checking and proctoring the examination.
Certification Boards
Click on each certification type to learn more about that particular certification
Bloodstain Pattern Examiner Certification
Bloodstain Pattern Examiner Certification requirements vary, but may include actual training as well as oral and/or visual presentations and an examination with a passing score of 75 percent.
- Certified Crime Scene Investigator
- Certified Crime Scene Analyst
- Certified Crime Scene Reconstructionist
- Certified Senior Crime Scene Analyst
Each certification requires a vigorous testing process with a minimum passing score of 75 percent.
Footwear Certification requires that applicants meet specified requirements prior to beginning the testing process, which consists of a written and practical test.
Due to the multifaceted nature of Forensic Art, revisions have recently been made to the certification process that now opens Forensic Art Certification to practitioners of Facial Reconstruction and Age Progression as well as Composite Art.
Forensic Photography Certification
Photography Certification requires that applicants meet specified requirements prior to beginning the testing process, see certification page for requirements. The testing process consists of a written and practical test.
Latent Print Certification tests pattern interpretation of inked fingerprints and comparison of latent prints. In addition, multiple-choice questions cover every facet of the science of fingerprints. Each applicant for this certification must submit a case, including testimony and charted enlargements, to the Latent Print Certification Board.