Certification
A Candidate for ABFDE Board Certification must successfully complete four phases of assessment. Each phase must be completed before the Candidate is allowed to move on to the subsequent phase.
The ABFDE does not train individuals to become Forensic Document Examiners. Candidates for ABFDE Board Certification must be fully trained.
Full details of the process are in Rules and Procedures Guide Section IV.
The Four-Phase
Certification Process
Credentials Phase
The Candidate must submit an application and three references, along with his or her training records and college transcripts, to the Credentials Chair. Applications from those who do not meet the minimum qualifications will be rejected.
There is no minimum waiting period between completion of training and applying for ABFDE certification. Please also note that for the foreseeable future, applicants must reside in the United States, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.
Written Exam Phase
Upon successful completion of the Credentials Phase, the Candidate must pass a proctored multiple – choice written test with a minimum score of 70%.
Practical Case Assignment Phase
Candidates are sent a set of exercises that are designed to represent typical casework. Due to the complexities involved in arranging a panel for the subsequent Oral Boards Phase, the Candidate’s completed work product is first evaluated to determine whether the reports and notes are satisfactory to pass an Oral Board.
Oral Boards Phase
Once the practical case assignments are evaluated as satisfactory, an Oral Boards panel is scheduled so the Candidate can demonstrate his or her results. The panel assesses the Candidate’s reasoning, methodology, and underlying knowledge of the field of Forensic Document Examination, finally making a recommendation whether the Candidate has earned certification.
Study for the Test
The ABFDE Study Guide is intended to be used in conjunction with a formal training program as described in the current standard for minimum training requirements. The Objectives for Training outlines areas of study and the basic knowledge required in each area.
The Bibliography is divided into these corresponding areas and lists recommended reading.
ABFDE Study Guide
Comprehensive outline of study areas and basic knowledge requirements for each certification phase.
ABFDE Bibliography
Detailed bibliography with recommended
reading materials organized by
corresponding study areas.
Certification FAQ
What are the requirements to maintain ABFDE certification?
To maintain certification, you are required to pay dues annually and earn 40 continuing education points in a five-year period. Recertifications points are for activities you participated such as attending professional conferences and webinars, presenting at conferences, teaching or attending QD courses, successfully completing a QD proficiency test, and many other categories.
Does ABFDE only conduct testing at forensic conferences?
There is no requirement for the written test or oral board to be conducted at a conference or only at certain times of the year. ABFDE can provide testing at a time and location that works best for all parties. Additionally, an oral board may be conducted virtually.
Does ABFDE only conduct testing at forensic conferences?
There is no requirement for the written test or oral board to be conducted at a conference or only at certain times of the year. ABFDE can provide testing at a time and location that works best for all parties. Additionally, an oral board may be conducted virtually.
Will ABFDE disclose my testing results?
ABFDE has a confidentiality policy which includes information of any individual applying for certification or recertification. We will uphold the policy in compliance with applicable federal and state laws. Information other than certification status (i.e., is certified, is not certified) shall not be disclosed to a third party without the written consent. Where the law requires disclosure, the individual shall be notified of the information provided.
Who evaluates the certification testing?
Test proctors and evaluators are members of the Board of Directors, Testing Committee, or other ABFDE Diplomates. Written tests and practical case assignments are validated by Diplomates prior to use.
What are the benefits of ABFDE certification?
Certification is a peer-review process that verifies a forensic examiner’s training and knowledge. Achieving ABFDE demonstrates to attorneys, judges, employers, clients, and professional organizations that you have the requisite qualifications and competence in the practice of forensic document examination.
Rules and Procedures Guide
The Rules and Procedures Guide (RPG) contains the Bylaws, Code of Ethics, and Policies & Procedures.