Credentials
Choosing to become credentialed with the IAABC is a meaningful 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.
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 join—you'll then be able to enroll for a credentialing examination through your member dashboard.
Credential Options
Credentials are available at three levels of expertise:
- Certified: For behavior consultants that address behaviors affecting the safety and/or quality of life for the animal and/or the people who interact with that animal. These behaviors may include fear, anxiety, aggression, phobias, compulsive behaviors, and others. Available for Dog, Cat, Equine, Parrot, Shelter-Dog, and Shelter-Cat.
- Accredited: For animal trainers working to teach manners, life skills, sports, enrichment, and prevention of behavior problems. Available for Dog, Equine, and Shelter-Dog.
- Affiliate: For those working with companion animals in a shelter setting who need to understand how to provide a high standard of care. Multi-species certification available for shelter employees and volunteers.
The IAABC does not provide training or education for credentialing purposes. We use objective standards to evaluate a practitioner’s knowledge, skills, experience, and adherence to ethical standards. To get started, we recommend reading the IAABC Application Handbook, which outlines eligibility, timelines, and exactly what to expect throughout the application process.
Explore Credentials
Application fees are not refundable if the application is abandoned or expires.
Continuing Education Requirements
To maintain your IAABC credential, all credentialed professionals must complete a minimum of 36 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every 3 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, and many low‑cost and no‑cost opportunities are available throughout the year.
For a complete breakdown of CEU types and documentation guidelines, please visit the IAABC CEU Policy. You can also view our library of IAABC‑approved CEU listings.
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.
Understanding the 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.
Before applying, we ask all applicants to review the IAABC Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice. Once your examination is opened, you will have 60 days to receive endorsements and 60 days to submit your materials. We encourage thoughtful preparation and review. 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.
Support and Accommodations
If you have questions about which credential best fits your background, we invite you to attend one of our upcoming community Q&A events or email us at info@iaabc.org. We are always happy to help.