About the Correctional Trainer Certification Program
 What is the purpose of certification?
The Correctional Trainer Certification Commission (CTCC), the International Association of Correctional Training Personnel (IACTP), and the American Jail Association (AJA) promote the concept of voluntary certification for all correctional trainers. Certification is one part of a process called credentialing. It focuses specifically on the individual and is an indication of current competency in a specialized field. Correctional trainers who become certified will be distinguished as individuals who have reached one of the highest levels of achievement in their field.
Who is eligible to apply to become a Certified Correctional Trainer?
Candidates must have three years of experience as a correctional trainer as defined in the CCT Handbook for Candidates. Anyone who provides training for managers, staff, and/or volunteers of a correctional agency (defined below). Adjunct or field trainers and faculty of institutions of higher learning in the areas of corrections, criminal and juvenile justice (and related areas) are eligible to participate in the certification process. Trainer skills include preparing adequately, both for content and training logistics; delivering clear, engaging presentations; effectively facilitating participant learning activities; evaluating the effectiveness of training; and making adjustments to improve effectiveness.
How can I become a Certified Correctional Trainer?
The four-step process of becoming a CCT:
- Submit the written application documenting eligibility along with the required work sample, and appropriate fee.
- Be deemed eligible by the CTCC.
- Submit the Application for the CCT Examination with required fees.
- Take and pass the examination.
How much will the Certification process cost?
There is a nonrefundable application fee of $125 for AJA and IACTP members and $180 for nonmembers. The application fee must be submitted with the application (Apply for Membership). The examination fee for candidates who are eligible to sit for the exam is $360.
The test is administered electronically by PSI during a two-week window in the winter and summer of each year. PSI offers over 800 testing sites nationwide and you can find the site nearest you by visiting their website at www.psiexams.com.
How can I find out more about the CCT program?
How can I obtain the necessary CCT application forms?
How can I prepare for the Certification examination?
Although general knowledge of the experienced jail manager and familiarity with current practices are what is required to pass the certification examination, AJA has developed a resource list to assist candidates in preparing for the examination.
- View the CCT Resource List (PDF)
- Click here for Examination Content, Dates and Application Deadlines
Become a Certified Correctional Trainer in
Five Easy Steps!
Step 1- Submit your Certified Correctional Trainer (CCT) Initial Candidate Application form, required documentation, and appropriate fees to the American Jail Association by the Application deadline of the desired testing period.
Step 2- Upon receipt of the completed Application Form, AJA Headquarters will verify the information and then determine your eligibility to sit for the CCT examination. If eligible, a packet of testing information will be sent to your home address. Once received, complete the blue Examination Payment Submission Form, Application for Correctional Trainer Certification Examination, enclose the appropriate fees, and submit to AJA Headquarters by the Exam Application deadline of the desired testing period.
Step 3- AJA Headquarters will submit the appropriate forms to the Professional Testing Corporation (PTC). PTC will then send approximately 6 weeks prior to the start of the testing period an Eligibility Notice to your home address which contains information on how to schedule your testing appointment.
Step 4- Call the phone number listed on your Eligibility Notice to set up your official testing appointment.
Step 5- Take the exam!
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For more information, please contact Francine Olszewski, Certification Coordinator at 301-790-3930 or certification@aja.org.
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