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Your Path to IAEM Certification

‘The best way to predict the future is to create it.'
— Abraham Lincoln

 

Embarking on the journey to become an Associate Emergency Manager (AEM) or Certified Emergency Manager (CEM) is a significant professional achievement—one that demonstrates your expertise, leadership, and commitment to the field of emergency management.

If you know you are interested in pursuing the AEM or CEM designation, you will want to ensure you meet all the certification requirements.

After reviewing and confirming that you meet the requirements for either the AEM or CEM designation, you must complete two distinct but equally important steps:

STEP 1: Passing the IAEM Certification Exam

The certification exam evaluates applicants knowledge of emergency management principles, policies, and best practices.

STEP 2: Completing & Submitting the Certification Application

The certification application is for applicants to document experience, training, and professional contributions demonstrating they meet the certification standards.

Important Update Regarding the Application Portal

Starting on July 1, applicants will no longer be able to create new applications in the current certification portal. If you already have an open application, you may continue to complete and submit it as usual.

This change is due to our transition to an exciting new certification portal scheduled to launch in August. Once available, all new applications will be created and reviewed in the new system.

If you would like to be notified when the new portal is active, please fill out the notification form here. Thank you for your understanding during the transition!

Why Understanding Both Steps is Critical

Some applicants might focus only on one step and delay the other. This can lead to confusion and unnecessary delays. By understanding how these two steps work together, you can plan effectively, avoid common pitfalls, and move through the process confidently and clearly.

Important Considerations

  • If you’re considering certification but aren’t ready to start your application, you can complete an Enrollment Form at no cost to express your interest in the program. A benefit of enrolling is that you will be added to the IAEM Certification database and have access to the Applicant Portal.
  • You can create a profile and begin uploading documents to your application through the Applicant Portal at no cost—this allows you to prepare your materials at your own pace before committing to the certification process.
  • The application process and exam are independent. You don’t need to complete your application before taking the exam.
  • Complete the above steps within one year of each other (order does not matter).
  • Paying the certification fee provides the applicant with two attempts to take the exam and two attempts to have the application approved by the Certification Commission.
  • Recertify to keep your certification current.

Need Assistance?

Contact IAEM at certificationinfo@iaem.com for support throughout your certification journey.