The program can be broken down into three steps or phases . . .

Phase One ... Application

The police department and local government officials make the joint decision to pursue
police accreditation. Together, you notify the accreditation staff at the Pennsylvania
Chiefs of Police Association via a Letter of Intent.  Staff then provides information on how
to obtain all materials to begin the accreditation process. Not only does the agency
receive the manuals, but also organizational materials such as labels for the accreditation
folders and a software tracking program. A training class is also available for newly appointed
Accreditation Managers and their Chief at the annual accreditation conference. There
is a one time fee of $250 to participate in the Pennsylvania Law Enforcement
Accreditation program. This payment should accompany the Letter of Intent.

Phase Two ... Self-Assessment

The Accreditation Manager will begin the process internally by performing a self-assessment
of the agency. This begins as an exercise in comparison. The Accreditation Manager will
compare how the current policies comply with the program’s 132* standards.  *Smaller
agencies without certain facilities or functions will only be required to comply with less
than 100 standards. Most agencies will discover that they are closer to compliance than
expected.

When the agency has completed the self-assessment phase, it will want to host a
mock assessment. This is a final review to ensure a smooth assessment in Phase Three. 
Staff is available throughout the process, offering support and guidance to ensure every
agency’s success. In addition, several localized coalitions have been formed by
Accreditation Managers to assist one another.  There is also a state coalition that can
be very helpful.

Phase Three ... Formal Assessment

The final phase of the accreditation process is the Commission assessment. Trained
assessors will do an on-site, two day review of agency files ensuring compliance with
all standards. Please note that the assessment is a success oriented process.

Your accredited status will remain valid for a three year period.  With accredited
status, your agency may experience insurance savings; stronger community
relations; and increased employee input, interaction and confidence in the agency.