Top 10 Public Safety Dispatcher Certifications

Certifications are important for public safety dispatchers in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and commitment to their profession. Certified dispatchers have a higher chance of being hired due to the fact that they show employers that they have an in-depth understanding of their field and can be trusted to perform their job effectively. Certifications also give dispatchers an edge over non-certified applicants when competing for promotions or higher pay grades. Lastly, certifications can provide public safety dispatchers with additional opportunities for professional development, such as continuing education courses or specialized training.

The purpose of this article is to review top certifications for Public Safety Dispatchers and explain how they can help further a dispatcher's career.

What are Public Safety Dispatcher Certifications?

Public safety dispatcher certification is a standardized process for verifying and validating the knowledge, skills, and abilities of public safety dispatchers. Public safety dispatchers are responsible for receiving emergency calls from the public, determining the nature of the call, and providing instructions to callers until help arrives. Public safety dispatcher certification is intended to ensure that all dispatchers have sufficient training to competently handle emergency calls.

By requiring public safety dispatcher certification, agencies can be sure that their dispatchers possess a minimum level of proficiency in communication skills, decision-making abilities, and other areas related to the job. Certification also helps ensure that dispatchers know how to properly use their equipment and resources as well as follow established protocols when handling emergency calls. In addition, certifying agencies can provide continuing education courses in order to keep dispatchers up-to-date on new technologies and procedures.

Overall, public safety dispatcher certification helps ensure that all dispatchers are adequately trained and equipped to handle emergency calls efficiently and effectively. It also provides an objective measure by which agencies can evaluate their staff’s performance and make necessary improvements or adjustments in order to better serve their communities.

Pro Tip: Make sure to research the specific requirements for public safety dispatcher certification in your area before you apply. Many states have different requirements and regulations, so it's important to make sure you understand the process before you begin.

Related: What does a Public Safety Dispatcher do?

Top 10 Public Safety Dispatcher Certifications

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

1. National Emergency Number Association (NENA) Certified Public Safety Telecommunicator (CPST)

The National Emergency Number Association (NENA) Certified Public Safety Telecommunicator (CPST) is a certification program designed to recognize the knowledge, skills, and abilities of public safety telecommunicators. The CPST certification is awarded to those who demonstrate their proficiency in the areas of emergency communications, radio operations, computer-aided dispatch systems, and other related topics.

To become certified as a CPST, an individual must first complete a NENA-approved training course. This course typically takes between 80 and 120 hours to complete and covers topics such as: radio operations; telephone etiquette; emergency medical dispatching; fire service dispatching; law enforcement dispatching; hazardous materials response; incident command system; and other related topics. After completing the course, individuals must pass an exam administered by NENA in order to receive their certification.

In addition to completing the training course, applicants must also meet certain eligibility requirements set forth by NENA. These requirements include being at least 18 years of age, having at least two years of experience in public safety communications or related fields, and having successfully completed any applicable state or local licensing exams or certifications.

The cost for the CPST certification varies depending on the provider offering it. Generally speaking however, it costs between $400-$600 for the entire process which includes both the training course and exam fees.

2. International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) Certified Emergency Telecommunicator (CET)

The International Academies of Emergency Dispatch (IAED) Certified Emergency Telecommunicator (CET) is a certification program designed to recognize the expertise and professionalism of emergency telecommunicators. The CET program is based on the IAED's Protocols for Medical, Fire, and Police Dispatch, which are internationally recognized standards for emergency call-taking and dispatching.

To become certified as a CET, an individual must pass a written exam that covers topics such as call-taking techniques, medical terminology, fire terminology, police terminology, radio communications protocols, and other related topics. The exam is administered by Pearson VUE Testing Centers in locations around the world. It typically takes about two hours to complete the exam.

In order to be eligible to take the CET exam, applicants must have at least one year of experience working in an emergency dispatch center or equivalent environment; have completed an IAED-approved training course; and be able to demonstrate proficiency in using the IAED protocols.

The cost of taking the CET exam varies depending on location but generally ranges from $100-$200 USD.

3. National Academies of Emergency Medical Dispatch (NAEMD) Certified Medical Dispatcher (CMD)

The National Academies of Emergency Medical Dispatch (NAEMD) Certified Medical Dispatcher (CMD) is a certification program for emergency medical dispatchers. This program is designed to provide the highest level of training and education to ensure that emergency medical dispatchers are able to respond quickly and accurately to emergency calls. The CMD certification requires a minimum of 80 hours of instruction in topics such as medical terminology, anatomy and physiology, pharmacology, patient assessment, communication techniques, legal issues, and protocol development.

It typically takes between three and six months to complete the CMD program depending on the individual's availability. To get certified as a CMD, individuals must complete an approved course from an accredited provider or institution. After completing the coursework, individuals must pass an exam administered by NAEMD to become certified.

The cost of becoming a CMD varies depending on the specific provider or institution offering the coursework. Generally speaking, courses range from $500-$1000 USD. Additionally, there is a fee for taking the exam which is currently set at $150 USD per attempt.

4. National Crime Prevention and Privacy Compact Council (NCPPC) Certified Law Enforcement Telecommunicator (CLETC)

The National Crime Prevention and Privacy Compact Council (NCPPC) Certified Law Enforcement Telecommunicator (CLETC) is a certification program designed to recognize the professional development and training of law enforcement telecommunicators. This certification is an acknowledgment that the individual has achieved a certain level of proficiency in the field.

The CLETC program consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical assessment. The written exam covers topics such as call taking, radio operations, emergency medical dispatch, public safety answering point (PSAP) operations, and customer service. The practical assessment evaluates the applicant’s ability to respond to calls for service in a simulated environment.

It typically takes between three to six months to complete the CLETC program depending on how quickly the applicant can study and prepare for the exams. In order to obtain certification, applicants must pass both the written exam and practical assessment with a score of at least 70%.

The cost of obtaining CLETC certification varies depending on where you live. Generally speaking, it will cost around $300-$400 for all materials required for the course including books, manuals, testing fees, etc.

In addition to providing recognition for professional development and training in law enforcement telecommunication, having a CLETC certification can also be beneficial when applying for jobs or promotions within this field.

5. National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Fire Service Dispatcher (CFSD)

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) Certified Fire Service Dispatcher (CFSD) is a voluntary certification program designed to recognize the knowledge and skills of individuals who serve as fire service dispatchers. The CFSD certification is an important credential for those working in the field of fire service dispatch, providing evidence that they possess the necessary knowledge and skills to perform their job duties effectively.

To obtain the CFSD certification, applicants must complete a comprehensive training program that includes both classroom and practical instruction in topics such as emergency medical dispatch, fireground operations, public safety communications, incident management systems, and more. Upon successful completion of the training program, applicants must pass an exam administered by NFPA to become certified.

The cost of obtaining the CFSD certification varies depending on where you take the training program. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $500-$1,000 or more. It usually takes between 4-6 weeks to complete the training program and pass the examination.

6. International Academies of Professional Law Enforcement Trainers (IAPLET) Certified Police Dispatcher/Communicator Training Program

The International Academies of Professional Law Enforcement Trainers (IAPLET) Certified Police Dispatcher/Communicator Training Program is a comprehensive, self-paced training program designed to provide police dispatchers and communicators with the knowledge and skills needed to perform their duties effectively. The program consists of seven modules, which cover topics such as radio communication, 911 operations, call handling, dispatch protocols, emergency response procedures, and customer service.

The program takes approximately 40 hours to complete. It is offered online and includes interactive video lessons, quizzes and tests. The cost of the program is $299 USD. Upon successful completion of the course, participants will receive an IAPLET Certified Police Dispatcher/Communicator certificate.

7. International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) Certified Public Safety Communications Officer

The International Association of Emergency Managers (IAEM) Certified Public Safety Communications Officer (CPSCO) is a certification program for public safety communication professionals. This certification recognizes the knowledge and skills required to effectively manage and lead emergency communications operations. It is designed to ensure that those in charge of public safety communications are knowledgeable, experienced, and capable of providing effective service to their communities.

To become certified, applicants must meet the following criteria: have at least five years of experience in public safety communications; hold a bachelor’s degree or higher from an accredited college or university; complete an approved training program; pass a written examination; and demonstrate their ability to manage emergency communications operations.

The IAEM CPSCO certification process typically takes between four and six months to complete. The cost of the certification varies depending on the applicant’s experience level, but generally ranges from $500-$1,000 USD.

Applicants should contact their local IAEM chapter or visit the IAEM website for more information about the application process and requirements.

8. National Incident Management System Certification Program for Public Safety Communications Professionals

The National Incident Management System (NIMS) Certification Program for Public Safety Communications Professionals is a program designed to provide public safety communications professionals with the knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to effectively manage emergency incidents. The program is based on the NIMS framework and provides training in the areas of incident command system (ICS), unified command, multi-agency coordination systems (MACS), and resource management. It also covers topics such as communication protocols, interoperability, and other related topics.

The certification program consists of four courses: NIMS ICS 100, NIMS ICS 200, NIMS ICS 300, and NIMS ICS 400. Each course takes approximately 8 hours to complete. Upon successful completion of all four courses, participants will receive a certificate of completion from the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).

To get certified in this program, individuals must first register for the courses through FEMA’s website or by calling their toll-free number. Once registered, individuals must complete all four courses within one year to receive certification.

The cost of the certification program varies depending on how many courses are taken at once. For example, if an individual registers for all four courses at once then they will pay $200 for the entire program. If an individual registers for each course separately then they will pay $50 per course ($200 total).

Overall, the National Incident Management System Certification Program for Public Safety Communications Professionals is a great way for public safety communications professionals to gain valuable knowledge and skills that can help them better manage emergency incidents.

9. Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System Certification Program

The Federal Emergency Management Agency’s Integrated Public Alert and Warning System (IPAWS) Certification Program is designed to ensure that public alert and warning systems are interoperable, reliable, secure, and compliant with federal standards. The program provides a certification process for emergency alerting authorities to demonstrate their compliance with the IPAWS Program Requirements.

The IPAWS Certification Program is open to all public alerting authorities in the United States who wish to become certified. The process typically takes between two and six months depending on the complexity of the system being certified.

To become certified, applicants must submit an application package including a completed IPAWS Certification Application Form, a System Description Document, and any other documents or information requested by FEMA. Applicants must also provide evidence of successful implementation of the system in accordance with the IPAWS Program Requirements.

The cost of certification varies depending on the type of system being certified and the number of components involved in the certification process. Generally speaking, most systems will incur fees ranging from $1,000 - $10,000 for certification services provided by FEMA-approved third-party vendors.

10. American Red Cross Disaster Services Technology Certificate

The American Red Cross Disaster Services Technology Certificate (DSTC) is a professional certification program that provides specialized training and education in the use of technology for disaster response and recovery. The DSTC is designed to help individuals gain the skills needed to effectively use technology during disasters, including data analysis, mapping, planning, and communication.

The DSTC consists of two courses: Introduction to Technology for Disaster Response and Recovery and Advanced Technology for Disaster Response and Recovery. Each course takes approximately 16 hours to complete and can be taken online or in-person. Both courses must be completed in order to receive the certificate.

In order to get the DSTC, individuals must first register with the American Red Cross by creating an account on their website. Once registered, individuals can then select which course they would like to take. After completing both courses, applicants will need to submit a final project demonstrating their understanding of the material covered in the courses before receiving their certificate.

The cost of the DSTC varies depending on whether you take it online or in-person as well as your location. Generally speaking, online courses are less expensive than in-person ones. Additionally, some local chapters may offer discounts on tuition fees for those who qualify.

Do You Really Need a Public Safety Dispatcher Certificate?

The answer to this question really depends on your individual situation. In some cases, having a public safety dispatcher certificate can be extremely beneficial. For instance, if you are looking to work in the emergency services field or want to gain specialized knowledge of communications protocols and procedures for emergency responders, then having a public safety dispatcher certificate could be very helpful.

Having a public safety dispatcher certificate can also provide you with an advantage when applying for jobs. Employers will look favorably on your application if they see that you have taken the initiative to obtain additional training and qualifications in the field. This could make it easier for you to stand out from other applicants who may not have taken the same steps.

In other cases, obtaining a public safety dispatcher certificate may not be necessary. Depending on your experience level and the type of job you are applying for, employers may not require any additional certifications or qualifications beyond what is required by law or by industry standards.

Ultimately, it is up to you to decide whether or not obtaining a public safety dispatcher certificate is worth your time and effort. If it helps make you more competitive in the job market or gives you access to specialized knowledge that would otherwise be unavailable to you, then it could be worth pursuing. Otherwise, it might not be necessary depending on your individual circumstances.

Related: Public Safety Dispatcher Resume Examples

FAQs About Public Safety Dispatcher Certifications

1. What is a Public Safety Dispatcher Certification?

A Public Safety Dispatcher Certification is a certification that is awarded to individuals who have completed specialized training and are qualified to work as public safety dispatchers. It is designed to ensure that those working in this field possess the necessary knowledge and skills to serve their communities effectively.

2. How long does it take to get certified?

The length of time it takes to become certified will vary depending on the individual's experience and the requirements of the particular program being pursued. On average, most programs can be completed within one year or less.

3. What qualifications do I need in order to become certified?

Each program has its own specific requirements but generally speaking, applicants must have a high school diploma or equivalent, pass an exam administered by the certifying agency, complete an approved training program and meet any other requirements set forth by the certifying agency.

4. Are there any continuing education requirements for maintaining my certification?

Yes, many programs require that you complete continuing education courses in order to keep your certification up-to-date and valid. The amount of required CEUs (Continuing Education Units) varies from program-to-program but typically range from 10-20 hours per year.

5. How much does it cost to become certified?

The cost of becoming certified will vary depending on the program being pursued but typically runs between $500-$1000 USD for materials, exams and application fees combined.