Top 11 Special Agent Certifications

Certifications are important for special agents in the job market because they demonstrate a level of expertise and knowledge in a particular field. Special agents often need to possess certain skills, such as firearms proficiency and tactical driving, that can be verified through certifications. Additionally, certifications can help differentiate candidates from one another and demonstrate their dedication to the profession. Finally, certifications may be required for certain positions or promotions, so having them can open up more opportunities for advancement.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for special agents and explains how they can help special agents further their career.

What are Special Agent Certifications?

Special agent certification is a professional designation that recognizes the successful completion of a rigorous training program and provides an indication of accomplishment and knowledge in the field of law enforcement. The certification is typically awarded by either a state, federal or international agency, and is often required for certain positions within the criminal justice system.

The certification process typically involves completing an approved course of study, passing a series of tests and/or examinations, and meeting other prerequisites such as having a certain amount of experience in the field. By obtaining special agent certification, individuals demonstrate that they have acquired a high level of expertise in their chosen profession. This can be beneficial for those looking to pursue careers in law enforcement or related fields, as it can help them stand out from other applicants during the hiring process. Additionally, having this certification can provide recognition from peers and supervisors alike and may even open up opportunities for advancement within an organization.

Pro Tip: When considering special agent certification, make sure to research the different requirements and qualifications needed to become certified. Different agencies may have different requirements, so it is important to understand what is expected of you in order to be successful. Additionally, look into any additional certifications or trainings that may be beneficial in your career.

Related: What does a Special Agent do?

Top 11 Special Agent Certifications

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

1. Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE)

A Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) is a professional designation awarded by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE). The CFE credential is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated expertise in the field of fraud examination and investigation. The CFE credential is considered the gold standard for fraud examiners and investigators, and provides a competitive edge in the job market.

In order to become a CFE, an individual must meet certain requirements set forth by the ACFE. These include having at least two years of professional experience in fraud prevention, detection, deterrence or investigation; passing a four-hour written examination; and completing an online application process. Once these requirements are met, applicants will receive their CFE certification.

The CFE certification process typically takes between six to nine months from start to finish. During this time, applicants must complete all necessary requirements and pass the written exam before they can be certified as a CFE.

The cost for becoming a CFE varies based on factors such as membership status with ACFE and location. Generally speaking, it costs approximately $400-$500 USD for non-members to become certified as a CFE, while members pay around $300 USD.

2. Certified Protection Professional (CPP)

Certified Protection Professional (CPP) is an internationally recognized certification program for security professionals. It is the highest level of certification available in the security industry and is offered by ASIS International, a global organization dedicated to advancing the security profession. The CPP certification is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated a comprehensive knowledge of security principles and practices, as well as a commitment to professional development.

The CPP exam consists of five sections: Security Principles and Practices, Business Principles and Practices, Physical Security, Personnel Security, and Crisis Management. Each section contains multiple-choice questions that test a candidate’s knowledge of the material covered in the CPP curriculum. The exam takes approximately four hours to complete and can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center in the United States or Canada.

In order to become certified, candidates must meet certain eligibility requirements including having three years of full-time experience in security management or related fields; completion of an approved college degree program; or completion of an approved certificate program in security management or related fields. Candidates must also pass the CPP exam with a minimum score of 70%.

The cost for taking the CPP exam is $395 USD for members of ASIS International and $495 USD for non-members.

3. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is an internationally recognized information security certification. It is administered by the International Information System Security Certification Consortium, also known as (ISC)2. The CISSP certification validates a professional’s expertise in designing, implementing and managing an organization’s security posture.

It takes approximately 6-12 months to prepare for the CISSP exam depending on the individual's experience level and study habits. To become certified, individuals must pass a rigorous exam that covers eight domains of information security knowledge: Access Control, Telecommunications and Network Security, Software Development Security, Cryptography, Business Continuity Planning and Disaster Recovery Planning, Legal Regulations and Compliance, Physical (Environmental) Security, and Operations Security.

The cost of the CISSP exam varies depending on the country you are taking it in. In the United States it costs $699 USD to take the exam. Additionally, there is an annual maintenance fee of $125 USD to maintain your certification status each year.

4. Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS)

Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) is a professional certification program designed to provide financial crime prevention professionals with the knowledge, skills and expertise necessary to effectively detect and prevent money laundering activities. It is offered by the Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS).

It typically takes approximately six months to complete the CAMS certification process. The process includes studying for the exam, completing an online application, passing a background check, and taking and passing the exam.

The cost of obtaining CAMS certification varies depending on your membership status with ACAMS. For non-members, the cost is $1,495 USD; for members, it is $1,295 USD.

In order to obtain CAMS certification, you must meet certain requirements including having at least two years of experience in anti-money laundering or related fields such as banking compliance or financial crime prevention. You must also have successfully completed a minimum of 40 hours of AML training within the past two years prior to applying for CAMS certification.

5. Certified Forensic Investigator (CFI)

A Certified Forensic Investigator (CFI) is an individual who has been trained and certified in the field of forensic investigation. A CFI is a professional who is knowledgeable in the areas of crime scene investigation, evidence collection, preservation and analysis. The CFI must have a thorough understanding of the legal system and be able to provide expert testimony in court.

To become a CFI, one must complete a specialized training program offered by an accredited institution or organization. The length of these programs vary depending on the institution, but typically range from six months to two years. Upon completion of the program, applicants must pass an examination to receive their certification.

In order to maintain certification, CFIs are required to complete continuing education courses every two years. These courses can include topics such as new technology used for forensic investigations, legal updates and new developments in the field of forensics.

The cost for becoming a CFI varies depending on the institution offering the program and any additional costs associated with taking exams or completing continuing education courses. Generally speaking, tuition fees for programs range from $2,000-$7,000 USD. Additional costs may include exam fees ($200-$300 USD) and continuing education course fees ($100-$400 USD).

6. Certified Homeland Security Level III (CHS-III)

Certified Homeland Security Level III (CHS-III) is a professional certification program offered by the American Board for Certification in Homeland Security (ABCHS). It is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved a high level of knowledge and experience in the field of homeland security. The CHS-III is considered the highest level of certification available from ABCHS and requires applicants to demonstrate an advanced understanding of the principles, strategies, and practices related to homeland security.

The CHS-III certification process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete. Applicants must first pass an online examination that covers topics such as risk management, emergency preparedness, counterterrorism, infrastructure protection, and cyber security. After passing the exam, applicants must complete a portfolio project that demonstrates their knowledge and experience in homeland security. This portfolio project includes writing a paper on a specific topic related to homeland security as well as submitting documents demonstrating their work experience in the field.

In order to become certified at the CHS-III level, applicants must have at least five years of professional experience in homeland security or related fields. Additionally, they must be currently employed or actively engaged in activities related to homeland security.

The cost for obtaining the CHS-III certification varies depending on the applicant’s individual circumstances; however, it typically ranges from $1,200 - $2,000 USD. This cost includes both the exam fee and any additional fees associated with completing the portfolio project requirements.

7. Certified Law Enforcement Analyst (CLEA)

Certified Law Enforcement Analyst (CLEA) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the accomplishments of law enforcement professionals who have achieved a high level of proficiency in the field of crime analysis and intelligence. The CLEA program is administered by the International Association of Crime Analysts (IACA).

In order to become certified, applicants must meet certain criteria including:

• A minimum of two years' experience as a law enforcement analyst or related position;
• A minimum of 40 hours of formal training in crime analysis and/or intelligence-related topics;
• Completion of an approved CLEA exam.

The process typically takes between 6-12 months to complete depending on the applicant's availability and progress.

Applicants must submit an application and fee ($350 for members, $450 for non-members) to IACA in order to begin the process. Once the application has been approved, applicants will receive instructions on how to register for and take the CLEA exam. Upon successful completion of the exam, applicants will be awarded their certification and will be listed on IACA's website as Certified Law Enforcement Analysts.

8. International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators Certification (IAFCI)

The International Association of Financial Crimes Investigators (IAFCI) Certification is an internationally recognized certification program for financial crime investigators. It is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of financial crimes and the tools used to investigate them. The IAFCI Certification is awarded by the IAFCI after successful completion of a rigorous training and examination process.

The IAFCI Certification consists of two parts: the basic level and the advanced level. The basic level requires applicants to complete an online course covering topics such as fraud prevention, investigation techniques, money laundering, and cybercrime. This course takes approximately 8-10 hours to complete. Upon successful completion of the course, applicants must pass a written exam in order to receive their IAFCI Basic Level Certification.

The advanced level requires applicants to complete additional courses covering more complex topics such as asset tracing, anti-corruption laws, international banking regulations, and economic sanctions enforcement. This course takes approximately 12-15 hours to complete. Upon successful completion of this course, applicants must pass a written exam in order to receive their IAFCI Advanced Level Certification.

The cost for the IAFCI Certification varies depending on which courses are taken and whether or not one chooses to take both levels at once or separately. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $500-$1000 USD for both levels combined depending on which courses are taken and where they are taken from.

Overall, the IAFCI Certification is a valuable asset for anyone looking to become a financial crime investigator or work in any related field as it provides recognition of expertise in financial crimes investigations worldwide.

9. Counterintelligence Special Agent Certification Program (CSACP)

The Counterintelligence Special Agent Certification Program (CSACP) is a professional certification program designed to recognize the specialized knowledge and skills of counterintelligence professionals. The CSACP was developed by the National Counterintelligence and Security Center (NCSC), in collaboration with the Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI).

The CSACP is an intensive, multi-day program that covers topics such as counterintelligence operations, intelligence collection, analysis and reporting, counterintelligence investigations, counterintelligence support to operations, and counterintelligence technology. It also includes instruction on basic legal principles related to intelligence activities. The program culminates in a comprehensive written examination.

To qualify for the CSACP certification, applicants must have at least two years of experience in a related field or have completed an approved training course in counterintelligence or related fields. In addition, applicants must pass a background check conducted by the NCSC before they can be certified.

The CSACP certification process typically takes between four and six weeks from start to finish. Applicants should expect to spend approximately 40 hours studying for the exam and completing other requirements.

The cost for the CSACP certification varies depending on the applicant's level of experience and other factors such as location and employer discounts. Generally speaking, applicants can expect to pay between $1,500 and $3,000 for the entire process.

10. National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s Internet Crimes Against Children Training and Technical Assistance Program (ICAC TTA)

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children’s Internet Crimes Against Children Training and Technical Assistance Program (ICAC TTA) is a program designed to provide training and technical assistance to law enforcement, prosecutors, victim service providers, and other professionals who work with victims of online child exploitation. The program provides training on topics such as identifying victims of online exploitation, responding to reports of online exploitation, investigating online crimes against children, and prosecuting offenders. The ICAC TTA also provides technical assistance in the form of webinars and other resources to help professionals stay up-to-date on current trends in online exploitation.

The ICAC TTA program is free to participants; however, there may be some costs associated with travel or lodging if the training is held at an offsite location. To get access to the ICAC TTA program, individuals must first complete an application process which includes providing contact information and a brief description of their professional background. Once approved for participation in the program, individuals will receive notifications about upcoming trainings and technical assistance opportunities.

The duration of each training or technical assistance opportunity varies depending on the topic being covered; however, most trainings last between one day and three days in length.

11. Drug Enforcement Administration Special Agent Certification Program (DEA SACP).

The Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA) Special Agent Certification Program (SACP) is a certification program that recognizes the expertise and qualifications of DEA Special Agents. The program provides an opportunity for DEA agents to demonstrate their commitment to professional excellence in the field of drug enforcement.

The SACP is designed to recognize individuals who have achieved advanced levels of proficiency in the areas of drug law enforcement, intelligence gathering, and investigations. To obtain certification, applicants must complete a rigorous training program that includes courses in criminal justice, drug laws and regulations, investigative techniques, and other related topics. Applicants must also pass written and practical examinations administered by the DEA.

The SACP typically takes about one year to complete. During this time, applicants are required to attend weekly classes at a DEA-approved training facility or online coursework through an accredited institution. After completing all course requirements, applicants must pass both written and practical examinations administered by the DEA before they can be certified as a DEA Special Agent.

The cost of the SACP varies depending on the type of training program chosen by the applicant. Some programs may require additional fees for materials or supplies needed during the course of study. Generally speaking, however, most programs will cost between $2,000 and $4,000 USD for completion.

Overall, obtaining certification through the DEA SACP is an important step towards becoming a successful DEA Special Agent. The program provides specialized training and recognition for those who demonstrate excellence in their field while also providing valuable insight into how to effectively conduct investigations and enforce drug laws.

Do You Really Need a Special Agent Certificate?

When it comes to getting a special agent certificate, the answer is not as clear-cut as one might think. While there are some circumstances in which a special agent certificate is beneficial or even necessary, there are also times when it is not needed at all. To make an informed decision about whether or not you need a special agent certificate, you need to consider your career goals and the type of work you intend to do.

If you plan on working in private security, law enforcement or any other area where you will be dealing with sensitive information or performing tasks that require a higher level of trust and responsibility, then having a special agent certificate can be very beneficial. This type of certification proves that you have the knowledge and experience necessary to handle these types of responsibilities safely and effectively. It also demonstrates that you understand the laws governing your profession and have the skills required for success.

On the other hand, if your job does not involve any sensitive information or tasks requiring extra trust and responsibility, then having a special agent certificate may not be necessary. In this case, it could actually be more advantageous to pursue other forms of training or certifications that are related to your intended field of work instead. For example, if you plan on working in computer security, then earning certifications such as CompTIA Security+ or Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) would likely prove more beneficial than obtaining a special agent certificate.

Ultimately, whether or not you need a special agent certificate depends on what type of work you intend to do. If it involves sensitive information or tasks requiring extra trust and responsibility, then having this type of certification can definitely be helpful. However, if your job does not involve those types of duties, then pursuing other forms of training may be more beneficial for achieving your career goals.

Related: Special Agent Resume Examples

FAQs About Special Agent Certifications

1. How do I become a special agent?

Answer: To become a special agent, you must complete the necessary training and meet all requirements set forth by your agency. This includes passing criminal background checks, physical fitness tests, and psychological evaluations. You must also have a valid driver’s license, be at least 21 years of age, and have a four-year degree from an accredited college or university.

2. What qualifications do I need to become a special agent?

Answer: In order to become a special agent, you must have at least a four-year degree from an accredited college or university. Additionally, you must pass criminal background checks, physical fitness tests, and psychological evaluations. You must also have a valid driver’s license and be at least 21 years of age.

3. How long does it take to become certified as a special agent?

Answer: The length of time it takes to become certified as a special agent varies depending on the agency and the individual’s qualifications. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete the necessary training and certification process for becoming a special agent.

4. What kind of training is required for becoming a special agent?

Answer: The specific training requirements for becoming a special agent vary depending on the agency; however, most agencies require basic law enforcement training such as firearms proficiency, defensive tactics, legal studies, investigation techniques, and report writing skills. Additionally, some agencies may require specialized training in areas such as surveillance techniques or computer forensics.

5. Is there an examination or test that I need to pass in order to be certified as a special agent?

Answer: Yes – most agencies require applicants to pass both written and practical examinations in order to be certified as a special agent. These tests typically cover topics such as criminal law knowledge, investigative techniques, report writing skills, firearms proficiency, defensive tactics and more.