How do I begin the process of submitting an application for designation or renewal?
Go to the page Credentialing – How To to learn more and begin the process.
Learn more about how to get credentialed or contact us to chat about the credentialing process.
Is there a deadline to submit my application for designation?
No. The Commission on Professional Credentialing (CPC) accepts applications for designation throughout the year.
Learn more about how to get credentialed or contact us to chat about the credentialing process.
Once my portfolio is submitted how long does the review process take?
CPSE understands the thought process, dedication, and commitment needed to apply. Once your application is submitted, the review process can take several months:
- 5 business days to process
- 5 business days to assign to a peer reviewer
- 30 business days for the peer review process
- Commission meets monthly
Please take into consideration when the commission meets as it may put you in the next commission meeting depending on when you submitted and how long the process takes.
Learn more about how to get credentialed or contact us to chat about the credentialing process.
What are the costs, process, and time elements for the designation application?
- The initial fee ranges from $245 for Fire Officer (FO) to $395 for Chief Fire Officer (CFO), Chief EMS Officer (CEMSO), Chief Training Officer (CTO), Fire Marshal (FM) and Public Information Officer (PIO). You can find more about the fees for renewal and if you have multiple designations here.
- The process is explained at How to Get Credentialed.
Learn more about how to get credentialed or contact us to chat about the credentialing process.
How can I create a successful application for designation?
Here’s a few tips for completing your application:
- For essay questions, start by developing them in a Word document (which has spell and grammar check) and, when satisfied, copy and paste into the application.
- Pay attention to the time period for information requested (e.g., 5 years) and list information in chronological order starting from earliest to newest.
- Be sure to include additional information requested (e.g., resume, organizational chart, position description, transcripts, etc.).
- Be sure to sign the certification statement attesting that all statements made on the application are true and complete to the best of your knowledge and that you have read, understand, and agree to abide by the Code of Professional Conduct.
- Check out the credentialing videos and handouts on the CPSE University Resource Libraryto assist you completing your application.
- Need a mentor to assist with the application? Review the Credentialed Fire Officer listand see if there is someone who you can ask to assist you. Or contact the CPC Program Manager for help finding a mentor.
- This is a professional credential and we hold our credentialed officers to the highest of standards. Peer Reviewers will be reviewing your portfolio (application and supporting documents) and making a recommendation of designation to CPC. While reviewing your portfolio, the Peer Reviewers may ask you for more information or to re-write of a particular section.
- If you have questions, please contact the CPC Program Manager.
Learn more about how to get credentialed or contact us to chat about the credentialing process.