- Application fee
- $100
- Prerequisite
- Current PCB credential
- Training
- 30 hours, criminal justice-specific
- Exam
- No exam
- Renewal
- With credential, 6 hours
An endorsement that adds a specialization to a PCB credential you already hold. It acknowledges your additional education in criminal justice systems and their impact on a person's treatment and recovery. It is not a stand-alone certification: it is added to the certificate of your qualifying credential.
Is this certification right for me?
It's a fit if you already hold a current, valid CAAP, CAAC, CADC, CAADC, CCDP, CCDPD, CCS, CFRS, CRS or CRSS in good standing, and you want to show additional education in criminal justice systems and their impact on a person's treatment and recovery.
Consider a different certification if you do not hold a qualifying PCB credential yet. Start with that credential, for example the Certified Alcohol and Drug Counselor. If your specialty is treating problem gambling, see the Certificate of Competency in Problem Gambling.
Requirements
This endorsement is only available to professionals who already hold a qualifying PCB credential. All requirements must be met and documented before you apply.
A current qualifying PCB credential
CAAP, CAAC, CADC, CAADC, CCDP, CCDPD, CCS, CFRS, CRS or CRSS, current, valid and in good standing. Indicate your credential on the application.30 hours of criminal justice-specific education/training
Formal, structured instruction: workshops, trainings, seminars, in-services, college/university credit courses and online education. There is no limit on online education. Include copies of your training certificates and/or college transcript with your application.
Your journey
Hold a qualifying credential
You need a current, valid CAAP, CAAC, CADC, CAADC, CCDP, CCDPD, CCS, CFRS, CRS or CRSS in good standing.
Complete 30 hours of criminal justice-specific training
You can apply any time once the education requirement is met.
Apply online or by PDF
Apply through your online account and pay by credit card, or send the PDF application by mail, email or fax with your training certificates or transcript.
Review: up to 10 business days
Your endorsement is added
There is no exam. Once approved, the endorsement is added to the certificate of your qualifying credential. Your certificate is mailed within 10 business days.
Fees
| Item | Fee |
|---|---|
| Application (includes first exam attempt) | $100 |
| Paper certificate (optional) | $20 |
The exam
There is no exam for the Certificate of Competency in Criminal Justice. PCB approves it based on your qualifying credential and your 30 hours of criminal justice-specific education.
Keeping your certification current
Your endorsement expires on the same date as your qualifying credential, and you renew them together. To keep the endorsement, include 6 hours of approved criminal justice-specific education in your renewal. These hours count toward the total hours you need to renew your qualifying credential. Recertification requirements and fees
Since January 1, 2026 there is no "lapsed" status: a credential is active or expired.
Common questions about the CJ
Can I get the CJ endorsement without another PCB credential?
No. The endorsement is only available if you hold a current, valid CAAP, CAAC, CADC, CAADC, CCDP, CCDPD, CCS, CFRS, CRS or CRSS in good standing. It is added to that credential's certificate.
When can I apply for the endorsement?
Any time once you have completed the 30 hours of education. You do not need to wait for your next renewal.
Do the endorsement renewal hours add to my total?
No. The 6 hours of criminal justice-specific education are included in the total hours you need to renew your qualifying credential, and the endorsement renews at the same time.
Should I submit all documentation with full application and fee at the same time?
YES, if a test is required you will be notified of future dates, locations and times after approval of application.