Administrative Manual
Fifth Edition, 2026. A guide through the accreditation process.
Chapter 1. Initial Steps
The Chief or Sheriff decides to pursue accredited status, designates an Accreditation Manager, and submits the Letter of Intent.
Chapter 2. Organization
Setting up compliance folders and a filing system that an assessment team can navigate.
Chapter 3. Standards
What the standards are, how they are numbered, what a standard contains, and when one does not apply.
Chapter 4. Managing, Controlling and Proving Compliance
Building a tracking system, conducting the self-assessment, and the four kinds of proof of compliance.
Chapter 5. The Mock On-Site Assessment
Arranging and learning from a rehearsal assessment. Strongly recommended, and arranged by the agency.
Chapter 6. The On-Site Assessment
Scheduling, the Assessor Selection List, the three-day schedule, on-site protocol, and the exit interview.
Chapter 7. Now What?
The three-year term, the Accredited Agency logo, annual reports, and maintaining your files.