Become an Accredited Agency

All the information you need including the process, timeline and cost.

The initial accreditation cycle is 2 years. An accreditation award is valid for 3 years.

1.

Prepare for Accreditation

Accreditation requires commitment and coordinated effort. Agencies should ensure they are ready to begin the process before moving forward.

To prepare, agencies should:

2.

Application, Fees and Program Setup

2026 Enrollment Cycles:

Cohort 1 - Starts April 1st:

  • Application Deadline: March 15th

  • Enrollment Fees Due: April 1st

Cohort 2 - Starts July 1st:

  • Application Deadline: June 15th

  • Enrollment Fees Due: July 1st

Cohort 3 - Starts October 1st:

  • Application Deadline: September 15th

  • Enrollment Fees Due: October 1st

Cohort 4 - Starts January 1st:

  • Application Deadline: December 15th

  • Enrollment Fees Due: January 1st

Complete the Formal Application

The Formal Application marks the official registration of a law enforcement agency into the CAPS Accreditation Program. CAPS Staff will review all applications, and if accepted, the agency will be enrolled in the next enrollment cycle. At the start of the enrollment cycle, the agency formally enters the two-year initial self-assessment phase, a critical period of internal review and documentation.

Once the application is live, you will be able to access it here.

Pay the Accreditation Fees

Accreditation through the CAPS Program requires payment of specific non-refundable fees that support the program's administration and sustainability. Once an agency’s application is accepted, an electronic invoice for enrollment fees will be sent to the agency. This enrollment fee must be paid in full before the start of the agency's enrollment cycle. (see Accreditation Cost)

Notify Agency Staff and Assign Support Roles

Once an agency enters the CAPS accreditation process, it is important to inform staff and assign support roles early. Accreditation requires coordinated effort across leadership, supervisors, line personnel, and administrative staff. Early communication builds buy-in, clarifies responsibilities, and reinforces shared commitment.

Establish PowerDMS Access

Once enrolled with CAPS, agencies will work with PowerDMS to set up their account and begin the onboarding process. PowerDMS charges an annual fee for software access. (see Accreditation Cost)

3.

Self-Assessment Phase

About 22 months, depending on agency need.

We recommend that agencies conduct a mock assessment about 6 months prior to your formal assessment.

Agencies conduct a thorough internal review by comparing current policies and practices against accreditation standards. This phase includes:

  • Gap Analysis to identify areas for improvement.

  • Policy Development with access to model policies and templates.

  • Proof Collection to gather documentation and records demonstrating compliance.

  • Assessment Preparation through optional mock assessments and organizational planning.

4.

Formal Assessment Phase

The formal assessment must be completed by month 24 of your initial accreditation cycle.

The remote file review will take place about 45 days prior to your on-site assessment. The on-site assessment will take 2 days.

Once agencies are ready, a trained team of assessors is assigned to conduct the review.

This phase includes both a remote file review and an on-site visit. The on-site visit typically spans two days and is designed to provide a comprehensive assessment of the agency’s operations and verify compliance with the accreditation standards. These activities include an entrance meeting, a facility tour, direct observations, staff and stakeholder interviews, and follow-up on any outstanding issues identified during the remote file review. 

Afterward, the team provides a detailed written report to the commission, outlining its strengths, compliance, and any areas that need attention.

5.

Commission Hearing and Decision

30 days after your formal assessment, the assessment team will submit their report to the commission.

Commission hearings will be held during the quarter following your formal assessment.

The Commission Review Hearing is a formal meeting, held either virtually or in person, where the agency presents its information and responds to questions from the Commission. Hearings are held quarterly and represent a key step in the accreditation decision making process, allowing the Commission to evaluate the agency’s compliance with required standards.

Following the hearing, the Commission deliberates and issues a final decision regarding the agency’s accreditation status. 

More information on the Commission can be found here: Commission on Accreditation

6.

Accreditation Award

Achieving accreditation is a significant accomplishment and one that deserves recognition.

Agencies that earn CAPS accreditation will be formally recognized on stage during the CPCA Annual Training Symposium. This recognition honors the dedication, effort, and leadership required to meet the rigorous CAPS standards.

7.

Reaccreditation Cycle

Accreditation is valid for 3 years. Once accredited, the agency must begin planning for ongoing compliance maintenance and prepare for future reaccreditation cycles to ensure continuous adherence to quality requirements. To maintain accreditation, a formal assessment must be completed before the 3-year anniversary.

Let’s Get Started

Accreditation isn’t just a milestone; it’s a strategic move toward becoming a trusted, effective public safety leader in your community.

Applications open March 1st

CAPS Agency Application