An FSAB application and supporting documentation should be submitted by the CAB to the FSAB Administrative Office no later than May 1 in any given year. Notification of accreditation status is made by March 1 of the following year.

The FSAB Standards are based on both recognized national and international standards with the FSAB’s own modifications having been made to accommodate the unique and diverse nature of the forensic specialty certification organizations. In general, the FSAB standards for accreditation are based on internationally recognized standards contained in ISO/IEC 17024:2012, which establishes the requirements for an organization certifying individuals. These standards include the development and maintenance of a certification scheme that comports with best practices.

Please see FSAB Procedure 4: Guidance for Parties Interested in Accreditation for detailed information.

The FSAB expects that forensic specialty certification organizations will: 1) meet our published deadlines for required documents (e. g., accreditation applications, supplemental materials) and payment of fees, 2) participate in on-site visits and surveillance activities when required, 3) respond to the FSAB communications in a timely fashion, and 4) notify the FSAB Administrative Manager of significant changes in leadership and the certification scheme.

The FSAB expects that forensic specialty certification organizations will: 1) meet our published deadlines for required documents (e. g., accreditation applications, annual reports, supplemental materials) and payment of fees, 2) participate in on-site visits and surveillance activities when required, 3) participate in a full reaccreditation assessment every five years, 4) respond to the FSAB communications in a timely fashion, and 5) notify the FSAB Administrative Manager of significant changes in leadership and the certification scheme.