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Footwear Certification Process
  1. Download an application.
  2. Complete the application, attach a check for $150.00 and mail to the address on the application.
    1. Application is reviewed by the Certification Board for approval.
    2. Applicant will receive notification of the Board's approval or disapproval of the application.
    3. Testing date and location will be provided to the applicant.
  3. A written test must be taken to complete the Part A requirement of the examination. (80% is passing)
    1. The written test consists of 100 multiple choice questions including but not limited to terminology, manufacturing processes for footwear, photography of track/mark evidence, enhancement, recovery, and preservation of footwear evidence.
    2. Two hours are allotted to complete the test.
    3. A candidate can prepare for the written test by reading:
      Bodziak, W. J., “Footwear Impression Evidence (Second Edition)”
      IAI Recommended Course of Study for Footwear and Tire Track Examiners
    4. The test will be offered at all IAI Educational Conferences.
    5. The test may be offered at other sites.
  4. Upon successful completion of the written test, the applicant will be provided Part B of the examination (practical problems).
    1. The practical problems consist of the evaluation and comparison of a minimum of three (3) separate cases with no erroneous inclusions or exclusions. Notes, observations, and all supporting data used to reach an opinion must be returned with the test materials.
    2. The practical problems will be sent to the applicant’s address of choice.
    3. The problems must be completed and returned to the Footwear Certification Board within 60 days of the postmark.
    4. Incomplete notes and improper conclusions will result in the failure of Part B.
  5. Successful completion of Part A and Part B of the examination will result in the issuance of a certificate, in December of the current year, declaring the candidate a “Certified Footwear Examiner”. This certificate is good for five years.
  6. Requirements for re-certification can be found on the IAI website.

For further information, contact:

Rodney A. Schenck
US Army Criminal Investigation Laboratory
4930 N 31st St
Forest Park, GA 30297
Phone: (404) 469-3944
Fax: (404) 469-7038
E-mail: Rodney.Schenck@us.army.mil