Accreditation Cost
Investing in Excellence
Accreditation fees are structured across six tiers based on an agency’s number of authorized full-time personnel. This tiered approach helps ensure that accreditation remains accessible and appropriately scaled for agencies of all sizes.
| Tier | Number of Authorized Full-Time Personnel* |
Enrollment Fee (Year 1) |
Continuation Fee (Annual Fee Beginning Year 2) |
| Tier 1 | 1-15 | $5,500 | $5,000 |
| Tier 2 | 16-40 | $7,500 | $7,000 |
| Tier 3 | 41-100 | $9,500 | $9,000 |
| Tier 4 | 101-250 | $11,500 | $11,000 |
| Tier 5 | 251-750 | $13,500 | $13,000 |
| Tier 6 | 751+ | $15,500 | $15,000 |
*Authorized full-time personnel refers to all full-time positions that appear in an agency’s formally approved staffing plan or budget. These roles are officially sanctioned and funded, rather than temporary, informal, or supplemental additions. Pricing is based on this authorized full-time count.
Enrollment Fee
The initial enrollment fee must be paid in full before the start of the agency's enrollment cycle.
This fee is non-refundable regardless of whether the agency completes the accreditation process.
The initial fee covers:
- Access to CAPS standards, resources, and staff.
- Assignment of a program liaison or accreditation specialist.
- Technical assistance and consultation during the mock/self-assessment phase.
- Coordination of the formal assessment and final review.
- Processing and issuance of accreditation status upon successful completion.
The initial fee does not cover:
- Access to accreditation software
- Costs associated with mock and formal assessments
Continuation Fee
Once accredited, agencies are responsible for paying an annual continuation (maintenance) fee, which:
- It is also based on the number of authorized full-time personnel.
- It is due each year on the agency’s enrollment anniversary.
- Helps maintain accredited status and supports CAPS program administration and periodic review processes.
Additional Costs
Agencies will be required to purchase a PowerDMS license to access the PowerStandards system for $600 per year. Agencies are also responsible for any assessor-related expenses associated with both mock and formal on-site assessments.
Grant Opportunities
CAPS has a limited pool of funds available to support agencies through mini-grants designed to assist with accreditation efforts. Agencies in Tiers 1 and 2 may apply for financial assistance using the CAPS Grant Application form.
Agencies are also encouraged to explore local and state funding opportunities, as they may qualify for additional grants or reimbursement programs that can help offset accreditation-related costs.
Questions about accreditation costs? Please connect with our staff at caps@californiapolicechiefs.org
