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.

Important Information Before You Apply

Before You Begin
  • Check Qualifications: Before you apply, make sure you meet the minimum qualifications for the certification you are seeking. Applications that don't meet these requirements will be denied. If this happens, you will need to submit a new application and fee once you are qualified.
  • ​Fees: Each certification you request requires a separate, non-refundable, and non-transferrable application fee. Online payment is preferred, but you can also mail a check.
  • Complete Application: We will not review your application until all materials are received. Use the link to the right to begin the application process.  Your application is not complete until we receive the application form, two references, application confirmation, Rules of Professional Conduct, and fees. 
  • Valid for 24 Months: Approved applications are valid for two years. If your approval date is older than 24 months, you must submit a new application.

For Current Certificate Holders
If you are already certified and want to apply for an additional certification, use the Application for Additional Certification form instead of the standard application.

​After the Exam
  • Results:  You should receive your results within 30 days of the date of your examination.
  • Re-taking the Exam: If you do not pass, you must wait 60 days before you can sit for the exam again, and a new examination sitting fee is required. You cannot take the same certification exam more than three times within a 24-month period, or more than six times total.
  • Appeals: If you want to appeal the decision, refer to the Appeals Procedure for more information.

Submission Information
Admin
Contact the Webmaster