Do I have to be a member of the International Association for Identification to be certified?
NO, you do not have to be a member of the International Association for Identification to apply or be certified but we highly encourage you to join the IAI.
How long does the certification last?
Certification is for a period of five years. You must apply for recertification before the end of the five years. (See below)
How long does the process take once I send in my application?
The approval process and testing should take no longer than 90 days from receipt of the application. A certification test may not be out any longer than 60 days from the date it is sent to the proctor.
Once I apply how much time do I have to study the material?
Do not apply for certification until such time as you have studied the required material.
Where is the test location? Is it online or will I have to travel somewhere to take the test?
After your application is approved you will be contacted by a local IAI Division representative who will make arrangements for a “agreed” upon location to take the test. Online testing is set for the near future
Can you take the test at the IAI Educational Conference?
Yes, if your application is in early enough to be approved. Testing is usually done on Tuesday or Wednesday of the Conference week.
I have access to the 9th edition of Saferstein's "Criminalistics" book, and I was wondering if that would be OK to study for the certification test, or do I need to purchase the 8th edition, as that is the recommended book for the test?
The CSCB has acquired the 9th edition of the book but it will take a while to cross check the material from the 8th to the 9th. Dr. Saferstein has advised me that there are significant changes in the 9th edition. The CSCB will be updating this part of the exam during the July 2007 Conference.
Is there a group discount?
No each application requires the same amount of time to process.
The certification fee is high.
Consider that the fee covers five years. That is 30 dollars per year.
Can I apply early for recertification and not be tested under the new process?
Applications for recertification received by the IAI prior to January 1, 2008 will not be required to take a recertification test.
In order to transition to the testing process those who are currently certified and who will have to be recertified prior to December 31, 2008 may apply for recertification early.
If my certification expires in May of 2008 and I apply early when does my five years start?
As an example, John Doe is due for recertification in May of 2008. He applies prior to January 1, 2008, and is approved for recertification; his next five years will start at that date, not May 2008. (January 1, 2008 to January 1, 2013)