American Board of Criminalistics
PO 418
Gardiner, ME  04345

ABC Certification Examination Application Process

Scholarship
You may qualify for a free examination sitting! 
See the Ed Rhodes Scholarship Page for more information.
Testing Accommodations
The ABC offers testing accommodations.  If you feel that you need accommodations, please visit our Testing Accommodations page for more information.  Please note that the testing accommodations forms must be received with Request for an Examination Seat at least 60 days prior to the examination date.

Application Process

If you wish to take an ABC examination, you should submit an Application and Application Fee ($75) at least 90 days prior to your anticipated sitting.  Early submissions are appreciated.  See the Field Testing page for special considerations for field testers.

Prior to sitting for an examination, you must submit a Request for Exam Seat and Examination Fee ($250).  These are due at least 60 days prior to your requested sitting.  Effective January 1, 2025, you must have an approved application before you can submit a Request for Exam Seat and Examination Fee.  Current examination offerings and the link to complete a Request for Exam Seat are found on our Seat Requests and Offerings Page.
​Please read the important information below before completing any forms.
  • Prior to applying for certification, ensure that you meet the minimum qualifications for the certification that you are seeking.  Applicants will not be approved to sit for the certification examination if they have not met the minimum qualifications. If your application is denied and you wish to seek certification once you meet the minimum qualifications, you will be required to submit a new application and a new application fee.
  • Each certification requested requires an application fee.
  • Approved applications are valid for 24 months.  If you have previously applied, but your application approval date is greater than 24 months old, you must submit a new application
  • Applications will not be reviewed until all components of the application have been received (Application, 2 references, application confirmation, Rules of Professional Conduct, and fees)
  • If you are already certified and wish to take an additional certification, you will complete the Application for Additional Certification (link below) instead of the Application for Certification.
  • The Application Fee is non-refundable and non-transferrable.
  • Online Payment is preferred, however checks can be mailed to:  ABC Registrar, PO Box 418, Gardiner, ME  04345
  • Invoices are available upon request.
  • If you did not pass the examination, you may appeal the decision. See the Appeals Procedure for further information.   You must wait 60 days before you can sit for the certification exam again. A new examination sitting fee is required.
  • You may not take the same certification examination more than three times in any 24-month period.  You can only take the same examination a total of 6 times. 

Submission Information
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