Footwear Certification FAQs

Do I have to be a member of the International Association for Identification to be certified?

No, you do not have to be a member of the International Association for Identification to hold a certification.

I have recently graduated from college and am interested in taking the certification test. Am I eligible?

Under the Educational and Experience Requirements, an applicant must possess a Bachelor's Degree plus two years of full time experience as a Footwear Examiner OR; possess an Associate Degree plus three years of experience as a full time Footwear Examiner OR; possess a High School diploma or equivalent plus four years of full time experience as a Footwear Examiner.

How does the Certification Board define "Footwear Examiner" as it is listed in the Experience Requirement for Certification?

An applicant for certification must be employed in the field of forensic science. The primary duties of an applicant must include the analysis, comparison and documentation of written opinions regarding footwear impression evidence in a laboratory type setting or as part of a specialized investigative unit. The collection, preservation and documentation of footwear related evidence at a crime scene does not constitute experience as a footwear examiner as required by the IAI for Footwear Certification.

What is the cost for applying for certification and how often do I need to re-certify?

The fee for IAI members is $300 and must accompany the application and accompanied documentation. The same fee of $300 applies to recertification and takes place every five years. Non IAI member certification and recertification fees are $400.

Can my certification fee or recertification fee be paid by credit card?

Yes. You have the ability to submit your credit card information on the Ecert application process online.

Am I required to conduct full time footwear examinations to meet the experience requirement?

No. An applicant for certification must be employed in the field of forensic science whose duties must include the analysis, comparison and documentation of written opinions regarding footwear impression evidence in a laboratory type setting or as part of a specialized investigative unit.

Do my letters of endorsement have to come from certified footwear examiners?

The two letters of endorsement must be from individuals who have knowledge of your experience as it relates to the examination of footwear impression evidence.

Once I apply for certification, what time frame do I have before the test is administered?

Once your application is reviewed, approved and sent to proctor, the applicant has 90 days to take part in the examination.

Can I take the test at the IAI Educational Conference?

Yes, if your application is submitted early enough to go through the approval process and you meet all of the required qualifications. Keep in mind, only the written portion of the test (Part A) can be taken at the conference. The practical examination (Part B) is mailed to you upon successful completion of the written exam.

If I failed the certification test, can I retake the test again?

Yes. Anyone failing the written test (Part A) must wait 6 months from the date of failure to reapply. Anyone failing the practical test (Part B) due to an erroneous inclusion or exclusion must wait for 1 year to reapply.

If I failed the recertification test, can I retake the recertification test again?

No. Anyone failing the practical test due to an erroneous inclusion or exclusion must wait for 1 year to reapply for certification (written and practical).

What if I'm not able to acquire the required number of credits for recertification?

If you are not able to acquire the requisite number of credits, recertification application will not be approved.

Any further questions, please contact the Footwear Certification Board Secretary.