Credentials

Choosing to become credentialed with the IAABC is a valuable step in your professional journey that demonstrates your commitment to high standards in animal behavior and training. These internationally recognized credentials affirm the depth of your knowledge and experience while reflecting the professionalism our field continues to uphold.

Why Credentialing Matters

Earning an IAABC credential demonstrates to clients, employers, and colleagues that your work meets respected standards of practice. It affirms that your knowledge and decision-making have been thoughtfully evaluated by experienced behavior consultants using a rigorous and structured process. Our credentials are often a valuable step in increasing referrals, expanding professional roles, and growing confidence in your own practice. The process itself frequently brings clarity and focus to practitioners who are already doing meaningful work and want to be recognized for it.

How to Begin

IAABC credentialing examinations are available exclusively to members in good standing. If you're new to the IAABC, your first step is to become a member. Once you've joined, you can enroll for a credentialing examination through your IAABC Member Dashboard. The information below will help you choose the credential that's right for you and prepare for the application process.

Credential Options

IAABC offers credentials for professionals at different stages of their careers and areas of expertise. Application fees are not refundable if the application is abandoned or expires.

Certified Behavior Consultant

For behavior consultants with three or more years of consulting experience working with complex behavior cases. Certified consultants address behaviors affecting the safety and/or quality of life of the animal and/or the people who interact with that animal. These behaviors may include fear, anxiety, aggression, phobias, compulsive behaviors, and others. Application fee: $225 USD.

Certified Dog Behavior Consultant (CDBC)
Certified Cat Behavior Consultant (CCBC)
Certified Equine Behavior Consultant (CEBC)
Certified Parrot Behavior Consultant (CPBC)
Certified Shelter Dog Behavior Consultant (CSB-D)
Certified Shelter Cat Behavior Consultant (CSB-C)

Accredited

For animal trainers with two or more years of training experience who teach manners, life skills, sports, enrichment, and the prevention of behavior problems. Application fee: $225 USD.

Accredited Dog Trainer (ADT)
Accredited Shelter Dog Trainer (AST-D)
Accredited Equine Trainer (AET)

Shelter Behavior Affiliate

For shelter employees and volunteers with at least 200 hours of hands-on experience who demonstrate knowledge of learning theory, animal behavior, management skills, and the standards needed to provide high-quality care in a shelter environment. This is a multi-species credential. Application fee: $125 USD.

Behavior Checklist (BCL)

The Behavior Checklist (BCL) is a video-based certification that evaluates a professional's ability to accurately observe, interpret, and assess canine behavior using a standardized scoring system. Unlike IAABC credentialing examinations, the BCL is available to both members and non-members. The BCL is an excellent option for trainers, shelter professionals, veterinary staff, students, and anyone interested in demonstrating their observational and behavior assessment skills. Application fee: $65 USD. Learn more about the Behavior Checklist (BCL).

Understanding the Credentialing Process

The IAABC is a third-party credentialing body. This means we do not provide the training that leads to your credential; instead, we evaluate your existing experience, knowledge, and professional judgment. The examination process is comprehensive and writing-intensive, and includes case studies, scenario responses, and documentation of your applied work.

Once your examination is opened, you will have 60 days to receive endorsements and 60 days to submit your materials. Examiners are looking for clear explanations of your decisions, reasoning, and understanding of behavior science. Responses should be detailed enough to give reviewers insight into your approach and intent.

Before applying, we encourage all applicants to review the IAABC Application Handbook, along with the IAABC Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. The handbook includes detailed information about eligibility, endorsements, timelines, application fees, and application requirements.

Continuing Education Requirements

Once you have earned an IAABC credential, you must complete a minimum of 36 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every three years. CEUs support professional growth and ongoing learning through participation in webinars, courses, mentorship, publications, and teaching. A wide variety of activities can count toward CEUs. For a complete breakdown of CEU types and documentation guidelines, please visit the IAABC CEU Policy.

Support and Accommodations

IAABC credentialing examinations are currently offered in English and Spanish. If you have any questions or would like to request an accommodation, please contact us. We are always happy to help.

Ready to Get Started?

If you're an IAABC member in good standing, you can begin your credentialing journey by logging in to your IAABC Member Dashboard and enrolling in the credentialing examination that's right for you.

Not an IAABC member yet? You'll need to become a member before you can apply for an IAABC credential.