Top 11 Dispatcher Certifications

Certifications are important for dispatchers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge in the industry. They show employers that a dispatcher is capable of performing the duties required, as well as having received specialized training in areas such as communication, stress management, customer service, and more. Certifications also provide employers with an assurance that the dispatcher is knowledgeable about the latest technologies and trends within the industry. Certifications can help dispatchers stand out from other applicants and prove their commitment to their career.

This article reviews some of the most sought-after certifications for Dispatchers and explains how they can help advance a dispatcher's career.

What are Dispatcher Certifications?

Dispatcher certification is a type of professional training and qualification for those who work in the field of dispatching. This type of certification is typically offered by organizations that specialize in providing training and certifying individuals to become professional dispatchers. It provides the necessary knowledge, skills, and abilities required to properly manage emergency situations, communicate with other agencies, maintain accurate records, and perform other tasks associated with dispatch operations.

By obtaining dispatcher certification, an individual can demonstrate their ability to effectively handle various types of emergencies and ensure that they are prepared to handle any situation that may arise. This type of certification also allows them to gain a greater understanding of the law enforcement or public safety system as well as the different procedures used by different agencies.

In addition, dispatcher certification can also help employers who are looking for qualified dispatchers by providing assurance that those they hire have been trained properly and have the necessary skills needed for their role. It can also help increase job security since employers often require this type of certification before hiring new employees. Furthermore, having dispatcher certification can make it easier for individuals to find jobs since many employers prefer applicants who have already obtained this type of certification.

Pro Tip: Make sure to attend both a classroom-based and hands-on training course prior to attempting dispatcher certification. This will ensure that you are up-to-date on the most current procedures and guidelines, as well as having the necessary practical experience to successfully pass the certification exam.

Related: What does a Dispatcher do?

Top 11 Dispatcher Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Dispatchers today.

1. Certified Emergency Dispatcher (CED)

Certified Emergency Dispatcher (CED) is a professional credential offered by the International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge, skill, and proficiency in emergency dispatch. The certification program is based on the IAED’s Medical Priority Dispatch System (MPDS), which is used by many emergency communication centers around the world.

In order to become certified as an Emergency Dispatcher, individuals must first complete a training program that covers topics such as medical terminology, handling difficult calls, and dispatching techniques. After completing the training program, applicants must pass an exam administered by the IAED.

The CED certification process typically takes between three and six months to complete. The cost of the certification process varies depending on the type of training program chosen and other factors such as travel expenses. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500 to $2,000 or more for the entire process.

2. Certified Telecommunications Network Professional (CTNP)

Certified Telecommunications Network Professional (CTNP) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of professionals in the telecommunications industry. The CTNP certification is offered by the Telecommunications Certification Board (TCB), an independent, non-profit organization that provides certifications for telecommunications professionals.

To become a Certified Telecommunications Network Professional (CTNP), one must have at least two years of experience in the telecommunications field and pass an examination administered by TCB. The exam consists of multiple choice questions covering topics such as network architecture, system design, network security, network management, and network operations.

The cost for taking the CTNP exam is $500 USD. The exam can be taken online or in person at a testing center. It typically takes about two hours to complete the exam. After successfully completing the exam, applicants will receive their CTNP certification within six weeks via email.

3. National Emergency Number Association (NENA) Public Safety Telecommunicator Certification

The National Emergency Number Association (NENA) Public Safety Telecommunicator Certification is a voluntary certification program that recognizes professional achievement in the field of public safety telecommunicators. It is designed to help ensure that all public safety telecommunicators have the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively perform their duties in emergency situations.

To obtain NENA Public Safety Telecommunicator Certification, applicants must meet certain eligibility requirements and pass an examination. The eligibility requirements include having at least one year of experience as a public safety telecommunicator, completing a minimum of 40 hours of training, and passing a background check. The exam consists of two parts: a written portion and an oral portion.

The written portion covers topics such as radio operations, telephone operations, call handling procedures, customer service, computer-aided dispatch systems, and emergency medical dispatch protocols. The oral portion includes questions related to the applicant's experience with emergency communications systems and their ability to handle stressful situations.

It typically takes between three to six months to complete the certification process. Applicants should plan on spending approximately 20 hours studying for the exam prior to taking it. The cost of obtaining NENA Public Safety Telecommunicator Certification varies depending on the state or region where you are located; however, most programs charge between $50-$150 for application fees and exam fees combined.

4. International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) Basic Telecommunicator Certification

The International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) Basic Telecommunicator Certification is a certification that recognizes the knowledge and skills of individuals who work as telecommunicators in emergency dispatch centers. The certification is designed to ensure that telecommunicators have the necessary skills to effectively handle emergency calls and provide appropriate assistance.

The IAED Basic Telecommunicator Certification consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam tests the applicant’s knowledge of emergency dispatch protocols, procedures, and terminology. The practical exam tests the applicant’s ability to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios. Both exams must be passed in order to receive the certification.

The IAED Basic Telecommunicator Certification can typically be obtained in four to six months, depending on how quickly the applicant completes their studies and passes the exams. To get started, applicants must first complete an approved training program or course from an accredited institution. After completing their training, applicants must then register for and take both the written and practical exams through IAED’s online portal.

The cost for obtaining the IAED Basic Telecommunicator Certification varies depending on which training program or course is chosen by the applicant. Generally speaking, applicants should expect to pay anywhere from $250-$500 for their training materials, plus any applicable registration fees for taking the exams ($25-$50).

5. International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) Advanced Telecommunicator Certification

The International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) Advanced Telecommunicator Certification is a certification program designed to recognize the skills and knowledge of emergency dispatchers. This certification is for individuals who have completed a minimum of six months of experience in an emergency dispatch center and have demonstrated proficiency in the IAED’s core competencies. The IAED Advanced Telecommunicator Certification is valid for three years and must be renewed every three years.

In order to obtain the IAED Advanced Telecommunicator Certification, individuals must complete an online application, pass a written exam, and submit documentation verifying their experience as an emergency dispatcher. The written exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions that cover topics related to emergency dispatch protocols, best practices, customer service, communication techniques, and more. After passing the written exam, individuals must submit documentation verifying their experience as an emergency dispatcher.

The cost to obtain the IAED Advanced Telecommunicator Certification varies depending on the applicant's country of residence. In the United States, it costs $150 USD for members or $200 USD for non-members.

6. International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) Master Telecommunicator Certification

The International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) Master Telecommunicator Certification is a professional certification program that recognizes the highest level of competency in emergency dispatch. This certification is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved the highest level of proficiency in their profession and demonstrate an understanding of the principles and practices associated with emergency dispatch operations.

To get the IAED Master Telecommunicator Certification, individuals must complete three steps: pass the IAED written exam, complete an approved training course, and submit a portfolio demonstrating mastery of the subject matter. The written exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as call-taking, radio communication, medical terminology, legal issues, and emergency management. The approved training course is usually offered by a college or university or through an online provider. The portfolio should include evidence of your knowledge and experience in emergency dispatch operations.

The IAED Master Telecommunicator Certification process typically takes about six months to complete from start to finish. It costs approximately $250 for the written exam plus any additional fees for courses or materials needed to complete the portfolio.

7. National Crime Prevention and Privacy Compact Council (NCPPC) Certified Public Safety Dispatcher

The National Crime Prevention and Privacy Compact Council (NCPPC) Certified Public Safety Dispatcher is a certification program that recognizes the professional achievement of dispatchers who demonstrate excellence in the field. It is designed to recognize those individuals who have attained a high level of proficiency in the areas of public safety communications, emergency management, and privacy protection. The NCPPC Certified Public Safety Dispatcher certification is based on a set of core competencies developed by the NCPPC and approved by the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP).

It takes approximately one year to complete all requirements for the NCPPC Certified Public Safety Dispatcher certification. The first step is to register with the NCPPC and complete an application form. Applicants must also pass a written exam, which covers topics such as communication, emergency management, and privacy protection. After passing the exam, applicants must complete an online training course that covers all aspects of public safety dispatch operations. Upon successful completion of both the written exam and online training course, applicants will receive their NCPPC Certified Public Safety Dispatcher certificate.

The cost for obtaining the NCPPC Certified Public Safety Dispatcher certification varies depending on location; however, it typically ranges from $100-$200 USD.

8. APCO Project 33 Training and Certification Program

APCO Project 33 Training and Certification Program is a comprehensive training and certification program designed to provide public safety telecommunicators with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively perform their duties. The program is based on the National Emergency Number Association (NENA) standards for public safety telecommunication training.

The APCO Project 33 Training and Certification Program consists of two parts: an online course and a practical skills examination. The online course provides an introduction to the basics of public safety telecommunications, including roles and responsibilities, communication protocols, radio operations, telephone operations, computer-aided dispatch (CAD), emergency medical dispatch (EMD), customer service principles, and legal considerations. The practical skills examination tests the knowledge gained in the online course by having participants demonstrate their ability to apply that knowledge in a simulated environment.

The APCO Project 33 Training and Certification Program typically takes approximately 40 hours to complete. To get certified, individuals must first complete the online course and then pass the practical skills examination. The cost of the program varies depending on where it is taken; however, most courses cost between $200-$400 USD.

9. Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials-International, Inc. (APCO) Telecommunications Officer I & II Certifications

The Association of Public-Safety Communications Officials-International, Inc. (APCO) Telecommunications Officer I & II Certifications are certifications for public safety communications officers who work in the field of emergency services. The certification is designed to ensure that public safety communications officers have the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively perform their duties.

The APCO Telecommunications Officer I Certification is designed for entry-level public safety communications officers and requires a minimum of 80 hours of training in topics such as radio operations, telephone operations, computer systems, customer service, and more. Upon successful completion of the certification exam, individuals will receive an APCO Telecommunications Officer I Certification card.

The APCO Telecommunications Officer II Certification is designed for experienced public safety communications officers and requires a minimum of 160 hours of training in topics such as radio operations, telephone operations, computer systems, customer service, and more. Upon successful completion of the certification exam, individuals will receive an APCO Telecommunications Officer II Certification card.

To obtain either certification, individuals must first complete the required coursework through an accredited institution or through self-study materials provided by APCO International. Once coursework has been completed successfully and all required documentation has been submitted to APCO International's Certification Department, individuals may register for the appropriate certification exam. Exams are administered at testing centers throughout the United States on a regular basis and typically take two to three hours to complete.

The cost for both certifications varies depending on whether or not you are a member of APCO International. For non-members, the cost for each exam is $150 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees; for members it is $125 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

10. Federal Communications Commission General Radio Telephone Operator License

The Federal Communications Commission (FCC) General Radio Telephone Operator License (GROL) is a license issued by the FCC that allows individuals to operate and maintain radio transmitters in the maritime, aviation, and international fixed public radio services. This license is required for anyone who operates, maintains, or repairs any type of radio equipment that transmits or receives messages for use in communication with other stations in these services.

It typically takes between four to six weeks to get a GROL after submitting an application to the FCC. The applicant must first pass an examination administered by the National Maritime Center (NMC) or another approved testing organization. Once the applicant passes the exam, they will receive their license from the FCC within four to six weeks.

In order to get a GROL, applicants must complete an application form available on the FCC website and submit it along with a copy of their valid government-issued photo identification and proof of passing the examination administered by NMC or another approved testing organization. Applicants must also include payment for all applicable fees associated with their application.

The cost of obtaining a GROL varies depending on how quickly you need your license; however, it typically costs around $65 USD. This fee covers both the application fee as well as any applicable testing fees associated with taking the exam.

11. Department of Homeland Security First Responder Call Taker/Dispatcher Certificate

The Department of Homeland Security First Responder Call Taker/Dispatcher Certificate is a certification program designed to recognize the professional accomplishments of public safety call takers and dispatchers. The certificate is awarded to individuals who have successfully completed an approved training program. The program consists of five courses, which cover topics such as communication, call taking, dispatch operations, emergency medical dispatch, and incident management.

The certificate typically takes between two and four months to complete depending on the individual's schedule and availability. To get the certificate, individuals must complete all five courses with a passing grade. The cost of the program varies depending on where it is taken and can range from $500-$1,000.

Do You Really Need a Dispatcher Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the job you are applying for. Certain jobs, such as those in the airline industry and emergency services, require a dispatcher certificate in order to be considered for employment. In other cases, having a dispatcher certificate may be beneficial but not required.

If you are considering a career as a dispatcher, it is important to understand the regulations and requirements of your particular position. Some employers may require a specific type of certification or training program in order to be hired. Additionally, some positions may require additional certifications or training that go beyond what would normally be expected for a dispatcher role.

In general, having a dispatcher certificate can show potential employers that you have taken the time and effort to learn about the field and demonstrate your commitment to being an effective member of their team. It can also provide evidence of your ability to handle complex situations and make quick decisions when necessary.

When deciding whether or not to pursue a dispatcher certificate, it is important to consider the type of job you are applying for and whether or not it is required by the employer. If it is not required but could still be beneficial, then it may be worth taking the time to get certified in order to give yourself an edge over other applicants who do not have any formal credentials in this field.

Related: Dispatcher Resume Examples

FAQs About Dispatcher Certifications

1. What is a dispatcher certification?

A dispatcher certification is a professional credential that demonstrates an individual has met the qualifications and standards necessary to become a certified dispatcher. The certification usually requires passing an exam administered by a third-party organization, such as the National Academy of Emergency Medical Dispatch (NAEMD).

2. What are the requirements for becoming a certified dispatcher?

Requirements vary depending on the certifying organization, but typically include completing a training program, passing an exam, and maintaining continuing education credits.

3. How long does it take to complete a dispatcher certification program?

The length of time required to complete a dispatcher certification program can range from several weeks to several months depending on the complexity of the course material and the student's ability to absorb and apply new information quickly.

4. Does having a dispatcher certification guarantee employment?

Having a dispatcher certification does not guarantee employment, but it may make you more competitive in the job market as employers tend to prefer candidates who have taken formal training and passed an accredited exam.

5. What are the benefits of having a dispatcher certification?

Having a dispatcher certification shows employers that you have acquired specialized knowledge in dispatching techniques and protocols, which can help you advance in your career faster than those without the credential. Additionally, certified dispatchers may be eligible for higher pay rates than non-certified dispatchers due to their advanced knowledge and skillset.