CAPS Frequently Asked Questions
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What is CAPS?
The California Accreditation for Public Safety (CAPS) Program is a voluntary, standards-based accreditation process managed by the California Police Chiefs Association (CPCA). CAPS recognizes public safety agencies that meet rigorous benchmarks in ethics, accountability, operational efficiency, and community service.
Why was CAPS created?
CPCA identified the need for a California-specific accreditation program that reflects the realities of law enforcement agencies across the state. While national programs offer valuable frameworks, CAPS is tailored to California, capturing the state’s distinct legal standards, the wide spectrum of agency types, and the expectations of its communities. It provides a scalable, flexible, and locally governed approach to professional accreditation.
What are the benefits of becoming CAPS accredited?
Accreditation through CAPS demonstrates an agency’s commitment to professionalism, transparency, and continuous improvement. It can help strengthen community trust, improve operational consistency, reduce legal and organizational risk, and enhance internal accountability. Accredited agencies also benefit from external recognition of their commitment to best practices and service excellence.
Is participation in CAPS mandatory?
No. CAPS is a voluntary program. Agencies choose to participate as a way to validate their commitment to professionalism and to strengthen their organizational practices in alignment with California’s best standards.
Who manages the CAPS Program?
The California Accreditation for Public Safety (CAPS) Program is administered by the California Police Chiefs Association (CPCA), which provides organizational management, staffing, and operational support to ensure the program’s success and sustainability.
To ensure fairness, transparency, and independence in the accreditation process, CPCA’s administration is complemented by the oversight of an independent CAPS Commission on Accreditation.
The Commission is responsible for:
- Reviewing and approving accreditation awards to ensure agencies meet established standards.
- Maintaining program integrity by upholding fair and transparent evaluation practices.
- Advising on policy and procedural updates to keep the program aligned with best practices in modern policing and community expectations.
- Providing oversight and governance to ensure CAPS operates independently and free from political or organizational influence.
Through this balanced structure, the CAPS Commission safeguards both the credibility of the program and the trust of the public it serves.
Which agencies are eligible to participate?
The CAPS Program is open to all public safety agencies within California, including municipal, university, and special district law enforcement organizations. The standards and requirements are designed to be both achievable and scalable, regardless of agency size.
What does the accreditation process involve?
After applying to and being accepted into the CAPS Program, agencies begin the accreditation process by completing a self-assessment using the CAPS standards.
Following the self-assessment, agencies may choose to participate in an optional pre-assessment. This stage offers an opportunity to demonstrate compliance and receive constructive feedback to support readiness for the formal assessment.
When prepared to move forward, agencies submit a request for a formal accreditation assessment. The assessment includes a remote file review and an on-site visit, during which assessors verify practices, conduct interviews, and confirm alignment with CAPS standards.
Following the formal assessment, agencies appear before the CAPS Commission for a hearing, after which the Commission issues the official accreditation decision.
Throughout each stage, CAPS staff work closely with agencies to ensure a smooth accreditation experience.
How long does accreditation last?
Accreditation through CAPS is valid for three years. During that time, agencies must maintain compliance with the standards and complete periodic reviews to ensure continued adherence and improvement. Reaccreditation follows a streamlined renewal process.
What support does CAPS provide during the process?
The CAPS team provides participating agencies with detailed guidance materials, training, and ongoing technical assistance. Agencies also have opportunities to engage with mentors and peers who have successfully achieved accreditation.
How much does it cost to participate in CAPS?
Program fees are based on agency size and are designed to remain accessible for agencies across the state. Fee schedules and renewal costs will be posted on our website once finalized.
Agencies may also be eligible to apply for CAPS micro-grants designed to help offset financial barriers and support participation in the accreditation process.
How is CAPS different from national accreditation programs?
CAPS aligns with many national best practices but was built specifically for California. The standards reflect California law, operational expectations, and community priorities.
What happens after an agency becomes accredited?
Annually, agencies that have achieved accreditation are formally recognized during a special ceremony held in conjunction with the California Police Chiefs Association’s Annual Training Symposium (ATS). This event brings together law enforcement leaders from across the state to celebrate the highest standards of service and integrity in California policing.
Accredited agencies receive:
- Official recognition from CPCA at the annual CAPS Accreditation Ceremony.
- Authorization to display the CAPS Accreditation Seal, a mark of distinction signifying adherence to the state’s most rigorous professional standards.
- Statewide acknowledgment as a model of operational excellence and public service.
Earning CAPS Accreditation is not just an accomplishment—it is a prestigious milestone that reflects an agency’s dedication to continuous improvement, transparency, and the highest ideals of public safety leadership.
Interested in learning more?
Complete our Interest Form, and we’ll keep you informed with program updates and announcements as the CAPS launch approaches.