NAPSA Certification Program Overview

The National Association of Pretrial Services Agencies (NAPSA) offers a Certification Program that provides national recognition to qualified pretrial professionals. Individuals who achieve certification earn the designation Certified Pretrial Services Professional (CPSP), demonstrating a fundamental understanding of the pretrial movement and the legal principles on which it is based. Currently NAPSA is offering two (2) CPSP options:

  • Pretrial Release
  • Diversion

PROGRAM OBJECTIVE

The Certification Program is designed to enhance the knowledge and professionalism of individuals working in the pretrial field, as well as other system stakeholders. It promotes best practices, supports adherence to the NAPSA Code of Ethics, and enhances the public image of pretrial services professionals. Certification also serves as a tool to attract and retain high-quality staff in the field. Those working in the pretrial field may apply for certification through NAPSA.

CERTIFICATION PROCESS OVERVIEW

The Certification Program includes three phases:

  1. Candidate Status
  2. Certification Status
  3. Recertification

                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

Phase 1: Candidate Status

Step 1 – Application & Testing Fee

Begin by completing the online Certification Application and submitting it with all required documentation. Once the form is submitted, you will be sent an invoice for the appropriate fee.

Step 2 – Take the Exam

After your application is approved and your testing fee is paid, you’ll receive access to the online, open-book exam.

  • The exam must be completed within one (1) hour and requires a passing score of 85%.
  • You have 30 days from the date your test is assigned to you to complete the exam. If you are unable to take the exam within this timeframe, reasonable accommodations can be made. Please contact us at [email protected].

If you do not pass the first attempt, you may apply to retake the exam using this form within six (6) months of your original application date for a $30 administrative fee. You will be invoiced for the fee once the form is submitted.

  • If the exam is not successfully passed within the 6-month timeframe, you must restart the process by submitting a new application and pay the original exam fee.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

Phase 2: Certification Status

Upon passing the exam, you’ll achieve the designation of Certified Pretrial Services Professional (CPSP).

  • Certification is valid for three (3) years.
  • Your CPSP credential represents the highest level of national peer recognition within your certification category.
  • You’ll receive a formal printable certificate verifying your credential via email.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                     

Phase 3: Recertification

To maintain your certification beyond three years, you must complete the recertification process before your certification expires.

Recertification Requirements:

  • Submit the Recertification Form and applicable fee.
  • Document 25 hours of continuing education related to pretrial and/or the law earned during the previous three years. Have you attended a NAPSA Conference during the previous three years? If yes, this qualifies! 

Once approved, you’ll receive a new three-year certification certificate via email.

                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

Additional Information