Top 11 Police Captain Certifications

Certifications are an important part of a police captain’s career. They demonstrate that the individual has attained a certain level of education and training, which can be beneficial when seeking promotions or other job opportunities. Certifications also show potential employers that the individual is dedicated to their profession and is willing to go the extra mile in order to stay current on the latest trends and technologies. Additionally, certifications can give a police captain an edge over other applicants by showing that they have specialized expertise in certain areas that may be highly sought after. Finally, certifications provide evidence of leadership skills, which can be essential for success in any police force.

The purpose of this article is to review the top certifications for Police Captains and explain how they can enhance a police captain's career.

What are Police Captain Certifications?

Police captain certification is a specialized professional program designed to provide law enforcement leaders with the knowledge and skills they need to be successful in their roles. The certification is typically awarded by policing organizations or academies, or can be obtained through independent study. Certification requires individuals to demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of police management principles, including leadership, management, organizational development, communication and problem solving.

By becoming certified as a police captain, an individual demonstrates that they have the necessary skills and knowledge to manage personnel and resources effectively and efficiently within the organization. Through this certification, officers can gain recognition for their expertise in the field of law enforcement. This recognition can help them advance in their careers and become more competitive when applying for promotions or higher-level positions within the organization. Additionally, having this certification may give an officer access to additional training opportunities, which could lead to further career advancement.

Pro Tip: When applying for police captain certification, make sure to thoroughly research the requirements and qualifications for the position. Be sure to highlight any relevant experience and knowledge that you possess on your application. Also, consider taking additional courses or training to further strengthen your candidacy.

Related: What does a Police Captain do?

Top 11 Police Captain Certifications

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

1. Law Enforcement Leadership Program

The Law Enforcement Leadership Program (LELP) is a comprehensive leadership training program designed to develop the skills of law enforcement officers. The program focuses on developing the skills needed to lead and manage within a law enforcement agency. The program is offered by the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) and is available in both online and in-person formats.

The LELP consists of four core modules: Leadership Development, Organizational Management, Strategic Planning, and Professionalism & Ethics. Each module contains an introduction to the topic, followed by interactive activities, case studies, and discussion topics. The program also includes a final project that requires participants to apply their knowledge and demonstrate their understanding of the material covered in the course.

The program takes approximately 6 months to complete if done online or 8 months if done in person. To get started with the program, individuals must first register for it through the IACP website. Registration fees vary depending on whether you are taking the course online or in person; however, most courses cost between $1,500-$2,000 USD.

Once registered for the course, participants will receive access to all materials needed for completion as well as guidance from an instructor throughout the duration of the program. Upon successful completion of all four modules and final project requirements, participants will receive certification from IACP indicating they have completed the Law Enforcement Leadership Program.

2. Certified Law Enforcement Executive (CLEE)

Certified Law Enforcement Executive (CLEE) is a professional certification program offered through the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP). The CLEE program is designed to recognize law enforcement executives who have demonstrated a high level of knowledge and experience in the field.

The CLEE certification process consists of two parts: an online assessment and an oral board examination. The online assessment consists of multiple-choice questions that test the applicant's knowledge in areas such as leadership, management, law enforcement operations, and organizational development. After completing the online assessment, applicants must pass an oral board examination administered by IACP staff members or certified CLEE examiners. During this examination, applicants are asked questions about their experience and knowledge related to law enforcement executive functions.

It typically takes 6-12 months to complete the CLEE certification process from start to finish. Applicants must submit their applications at least six weeks prior to the scheduled exam date.

The cost for the CLEE certification program varies depending on whether you are a member or nonmember of IACP. For members, it costs $395 for the application fee and $495 for the exam fee; for nonmembers, it costs $595 for the application fee and $695 for the exam fee.

3. National Criminal Justice Command College (NCJCC)

The National Criminal Justice Command College (NCJCC) is a professional development program designed to provide law enforcement personnel with the knowledge and skills to lead in today’s complex criminal justice system. The NCJCC is an intensive, two-week program offered by the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP). It is designed for mid-level managers and supervisors who are responsible for leading their agency’s criminal justice efforts.

The program consists of a series of interactive learning sessions that cover topics such as leadership, policy development, communication, problem-solving, and technology. Participants also have the opportunity to attend specialized workshops on topics such as crime analysis, intelligence-led policing, and public safety communications. In addition to classroom instruction, the program includes field trips to local criminal justice agencies and community organizations.

The NCJCC takes place over two weeks at IACP headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia. The cost of tuition is $3,500 per participant and includes all course materials and meals during the program. To apply for admission into the NCJCC, applicants must submit a completed application form along with a copy of their current resume or curriculum vitae. Applicants must also provide three letters of recommendation from current or former employers or supervisors attesting to their professional qualifications for the program.

Successful applicants will be notified within two weeks after submitting their application materials. Upon acceptance into the program, participants are required to pay a nonrefundable deposit of $1,000 toward tuition costs prior to attending the NCJCC.

4. Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) Leadership in Police Organizations (LPO) Certification

Police Executive Research Forum (PERF) Leadership in Police Organizations (LPO) Certification is a certification program that provides police executives with the skills and knowledge needed to lead and manage their organizations. The program is designed to help police executives develop the leadership competencies necessary to effectively lead their departments, including: problem-solving, decision-making, communication, team building, strategic planning and budgeting.

The LPO Certification Program consists of three components: an online course, an onsite training seminar and a final assessment. The online course covers topics such as leadership theory, organizational change management, organizational development and performance measurement. The onsite training seminar focuses on developing practical skills in areas such as crisis management, public relations and media relations. Finally, the final assessment tests participants’ knowledge of key concepts covered during the program.

The entire program takes approximately six months to complete. To get started with the certification process, applicants must first apply for admission through PERF’s website. Once accepted into the program, applicants will be required to pay a fee of $2,500 for tuition fees and materials. Applicants will then be required to complete the online course within three months of enrollment. After completing the online course, applicants will attend a two-day onsite training seminar at PERF headquarters in Washington D.C., where they will receive hands-on instruction from experienced police executives from across the country. Upon completion of both components of the program, participants must pass a comprehensive final assessment before being awarded their LPO Certification by PERF.

5. International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Certified Law Enforcement Manager (CLEM)

The International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Certified Law Enforcement Manager (CLEM) is a professional certification program designed to recognize law enforcement professionals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the areas of management and leadership. The CLEM program is designed to provide law enforcement managers with the necessary skills and knowledge to effectively manage their agencies.

The CLEM program requires applicants to complete a comprehensive examination that covers topics such as human resources, budgeting, strategic planning, organizational development, legal issues, ethics, and public relations. The exam consists of multiple choice questions as well as essay questions. Applicants must also submit an application that includes proof of at least five years of full-time law enforcement management experience.

It typically takes six months or more to complete the CLEM program. During this time applicants must complete the required coursework and pass the final examination with a score of 70% or higher.

To get started on your path to becoming an IACP Certified Law Enforcement Manager (CLEM), you will need to apply for the program by submitting an application online or through mail. Once your application has been accepted, you will receive instructions on how to register for the program and pay the associated fees. The cost for the CLEM certification is $450 USD plus any applicable taxes or fees.

6. American Society for Law Enforcement Training (ASLET) Certified Police Captain

The American Society for Law Enforcement Training (ASLET) Certified Police Captain is a certification program designed to recognize police captains who have achieved a high level of professional development. It is an advanced certification that requires a significant amount of training and experience.

In order to become certified as an ASLET Certified Police Captain, applicants must first meet the following eligibility requirements:

• Have at least five years of full-time law enforcement experience in a supervisory or command position;
• Possess a bachelor’s degree in criminal justice, public administration, or a related field;
• Have completed the ASLET Leadership Development Program (LDP); and
• Pass the ASLET Certified Police Captain Examination.

The ASLET Leadership Development Program (LDP) consists of three courses: Introduction to Law Enforcement Supervision, Law Enforcement Leadership and Management, and Advanced Law Enforcement Supervision. The LDP can be completed online or through traditional classroom instruction. The total cost for the program is approximately $1,500.00.

Once all eligibility requirements have been met, applicants must then pass the ASLET Certified Police Captain Examination. This exam covers topics such as leadership principles, organizational management, communication skills, personnel management, budgeting and finance principles, legal issues in law enforcement supervision and management, problem solving techniques and decision making processes. The exam is administered by computer at authorized testing centers throughout the United States and takes approximately four hours to complete. The fee for taking the exam is $250.00.

Upon successful completion of all requirements for certification as an ASLET Certified Police Captain, applicants will receive their certificate from ASLET along with recognition on their official transcript from the organization. This certification is valid for five years before it must be renewed by re-taking the examination or completing additional coursework approved by ASLET.

7. International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST) Advanced Professional Certification Program for Police Captains

The International Association of Directors of Law Enforcement Standards and Training (IADLEST) Advanced Professional Certification Program for Police Captains is a comprehensive program designed to provide police captains with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to lead their departments in today’s rapidly changing law enforcement environment. The program consists of five core courses that cover topics such as leadership, management, supervision, budgeting, and personnel issues. It also includes two elective courses that focus on specialized topics such as crime analysis, homeland security, and community policing.

The program takes approximately 18 months to complete. To get started, applicants must submit an application form along with a non-refundable fee of $75. After the application has been approved by IADLEST, applicants will be required to take the five core courses and two elective courses at an accredited college or university. Upon successful completion of all seven courses, applicants will receive their certification from IADLEST.

The cost of the program varies depending on the institution offering the coursework but typically ranges from $2,000-$4,000 for all seven courses. This cost does not include textbooks or other materials needed for coursework.

8. Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy Leadership in Police Organizations Program

The Federal Bureau of Investigation National Academy Leadership in Police Organizations Program (LPO) is a three-week executive development program designed to provide law enforcement executives with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively lead their organizations. The program focuses on developing leadership, management, and communication skills; understanding the dynamics of organizational change; and applying best practices in police administration.

The LPO program is offered twice a year at the FBI National Academy in Quantico, Virginia. It is open to all law enforcement executives from federal, state, local, tribal, and international agencies who have been selected by their respective agencies for participation.

To get into the program, applicants must complete an application form that includes a letter of recommendation from their agency head or supervisor. Applicants also must submit a resume outlining their professional experience and accomplishments.

The cost of attending the LPO program is approximately $2,500 per person (including meals). This fee covers tuition, lodging, meals during class hours, textbooks and other materials required for the course.

9. Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) Advanced Command Certification

The Commission on Accreditation for Law Enforcement Agencies, Inc. (CALEA) Advanced Command Certification is a professional accreditation program designed to recognize law enforcement executives who have demonstrated the highest level of knowledge, skills and abilities in their field. This certification is available to those who have achieved the rank of commander or higher within their agency.

It typically takes between two and three years to complete the requirements for CALEA Advanced Command Certification. To obtain this certification, an individual must first complete a minimum of 40 hours of approved command-level training courses and demonstrate proficiency in all areas related to command-level responsibilities. Additionally, they must pass a written examination that covers topics such as leadership, decision-making, ethics, problem solving and communication. Lastly, they must also successfully complete an oral board evaluation conducted by experienced law enforcement professionals.

The cost associated with obtaining CALEA Advanced Command Certification varies depending on the number of courses taken and other factors such as travel expenses. Generally speaking, applicants can expect to pay several hundred dollars in fees associated with the application process and examinations required for certification.

10. National Sheriffs' Association Certified Jail Manager Program

The National Sheriffs' Association Certified Jail Manager Program is a professional certification program for jail managers. It is designed to recognize the expertise of jail managers who have demonstrated knowledge and proficiency in the management of jails and detention facilities.

To obtain this certification, applicants must have at least five years of full-time experience as a jail manager or supervisor, with at least two of those years being in a supervisory capacity. They must also complete an approved training program that covers topics such as legal issues, personnel management, facility operations and safety, inmate programs, and medical services.

The certification process typically takes three to six months to complete. Applicants must submit an application form along with proof of their experience and training completion. The application fee is $100 plus any applicable state fees. Once the application has been approved, applicants will be required to take an exam administered by the National Sheriffs' Association. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will receive their certification.

11. National Tactical Officers Association Tactical Commander Certification

The National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) Tactical Commander Certification is a comprehensive certification program for law enforcement officers who are in command of tactical operations. The program is designed to provide commanders with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively lead tactical teams in high-risk situations. The certification requires completion of an intensive five-day course, which covers topics such as leadership, planning, communications, tactics, legal issues and risk management.

The NTOA Tactical Commander Certification is open to any sworn law enforcement officer who has at least three years of experience in a supervisory or command position. The course takes place over a five-day period and includes both classroom instruction and practical exercises. Participants must pass a written exam at the end of the course in order to receive their certification.

The cost for the NTOA Tactical Commander Certification varies depending on the location of the course and whether it is held online or in person. Generally speaking, courses range from $500-$1,000 per participant.

Do You Really Need a Police Captain Certificate?

The answer to this question depends on the individual's career goals and ambitions. For example, if someone is aspiring to become a police captain, then a police captain certificate may be necessary in order to gain the qualifications and experience needed for that position. On the other hand, if someone has no desire to pursue a career in law enforcement, then they may not need such a certificate.

Ultimately, it is important to consider one's career goals carefully when deciding whether or not to pursue a police captain certificate. The certificate can provide valuable insight into the field of law enforcement as well as potential job opportunities. However, it is important to weigh the cost and time commitment associated with obtaining such a certification against one's specific aspirations. For those who are serious about becoming police captains, the certificate may be essential; but for those who merely have an interest in policing without any intent to pursue a career in that area, it may not be necessary.

Related: Police Captain Resume Examples

FAQs About Police Captain Certifications

1. What qualifications do I need to become a Police Captain?

Answer: To become a Police Captain, you must have at least five years of experience as a sworn law enforcement officer, including at least three years in a supervisory or command role. You must also have the appropriate educational background and professional certifications, such as POST (Police Officer Standards and Training) certification.

2. Are there any special requirements for becoming a Police Captain?

Answer: In addition to the qualifications listed above, some states may require additional certifications or training for Police Captains. It is important to check with your state’s law enforcement agency or department for specific requirements.

3. How long does it take to become certified as a Police Captain?

Answer: The length of time required to complete all of the necessary training and certification requirements can vary by state and individual circumstances. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years or more to complete the process.

4. Is there an age limit for becoming a Police Captain?

Answer: Most states do not impose an age limit on becoming a police captain; however, each agency or department may have its own internal restrictions or policies in place that could limit eligibility based on age.

5. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my certification as a Police Captain?

Answer: Yes, many states require that police captains maintain their certification through Continuing Professional Education (CPE) courses and other relevant training opportunities offered by their respective law enforcement agencies or departments.