Certification

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National Recognition for Pretrial Professionals

Achieve the CPSP designation and demonstrate your expertise, professionalism, and commitment to advancing pretrial justice nationwide.

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 offers 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


    The Certification Program includes three phases:


    1. Candidate Status
    2. Certification Status
    3. Recertification                                                                                                                                                                                                                


    Phase 1: Candidate Status


    Step 1 – Complete Your Application


    Begin by completing the online Certification Application and submitting it with all required documentation. 


    By submitting your application, you agree to uphold NAPSA’s Professional Code of Ethics.



    Step 2 - Pay Your Testing Fee


    • Certification Fee: $75.00 for NAPSA members | $175.00 for non-members


    Step 3 – 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 info@napsa.org.

    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.

    Historically, NAPSA has sent physical certificates to each credentialed professional. However, due to rising costs, NAPSA has discontinued this practice and your pdf certificate will be send via email. Thank you for understanding.


                                                                                                                                                                                                    

    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.

  • Certification Program Applications


    Please review the Certification Process in full before proceeding. 


    Once you have completed this step, select the appropriate application below to begin.



  • Paying Your Certification Fees

    Please review the Certification Process in full and submit your application before proceeding. 


    Pleae use the links below to securely submit payment for fees related to certification or recertification. 


    All fees must be paid in full before applications can be reviewed or processed. 


    If you have questions, please contact the NAPSA at info@napsa.org.


    When submitting payment for certification fees, please ensure that purchases are being made through the applicant’s Neon account so that we may accurately match your payment to the correct applicant.


    NAPSA Pretrial Release Certification Exam Fee

    NAPSA Diversion Certification Exam Fee

    Certification Exam Retake Fee

    NAPSA Recertification Fee



  • Certification Exam Study Guides


    Below are the study guides designed to help you prepare for the certification examinations.



  • Recertification


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


    Recertification Requirements:


    • Submit the Recertification Application  and pay the 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.

    Apply for Recertification

Additional Information:

  • NAPSA membership (optional but provides discounted certification fees).
  • Second Attempt Exam Attempt Fee: $30.00 (if applicable).