Membership
Here you'll find information about becoming a CPCA Member. Already a member? Login to your MemberCompass to access your exclusive member benefits and resources.
The California Police Chiefs Association was founded in 1966 to serve as a voice and resource for California’s municipal police chiefs. It has since grown to serve their seconds in command, retired chiefs, and school, transportation and campus chiefs of police. As a CPCA member, you become part of a expansive and niche community with access to connections, resources and professional development to help you stay successful in the policing profession.
Click Here to Apply for CPCA Membership
About the California Police Chiefs Association (CPCA)
The California Police Chiefs Association (CPCA) serves as a trusted resource for law enforcement leaders across California. As a nonprofit 501(c)(6) organization, CPCA offers professional development, networking, and opportunities for collaboration among agencies statewide.
Head to our About page to learn more about the association.
CPCA was founded as an association for chiefs of police of municipalities in California. However, this doesn't mean we only represent municipal chiefs! At CPCA, we understand the value of collaborative leadership, and we offer multiple membership categories for policing leaders across different ranks and agency types.
Membership Categories
The Chief membership category is open to all municipal chiefs of police in California.
Note: Pursuant to Penal Code Section 832.4(c), police chiefs must obtain a POST Basic Certificate within two years of appointment.
Chief members gain tremendous value from their involvement in the Association. Most cite the networking opportunities—both at events and through our online community—as the number one benefit. Additional advantages include exclusive access to the Executive Peer Support program, participation in committees, and professional development designed specifically for executive leaders.
Affiliate membership is open to police chiefs who are not municipal chiefs but can benefit from CPCA’s statewide professional network. This category is specifically for chiefs serving at transportation, school, and campus agencies. Affiliate Chiefs must be full-time, paid, sworn officers with full peace officer powers as defined in Section 832 of the Penal Code, and not employed by a county policing agency.
Affiliate members enjoy the same benefits as municipal Chiefs, including access to leadership resources, training, and networking opportunities. Many Affiliate Chiefs find exceptional value in expanding their professional network across California and amplifying their voice through committee participation.
Associate membership is designed for sworn command staff leaders within municipal police departments—many of whom will become the next generation of Chiefs. By supporting our Associate members, CPCA helps strengthen both the Association and the broader law enforcement profession.
Associate members must hold the rank of Lieutenant or higher. Exceptions may be made for an agency’s second-in-command if that position is held by a Sergeant.
For Associates, membership offers unparalleled access to executive-level networking, leadership development, and mentorship opportunities. Members gain insight from current Chiefs statewide and benefit from tailored professional growth that prepares them for the next step in their leadership journey.
Retired membership is available to any CPCA member who has retired and wishes to remain engaged with the Association.
Retired members continue to receive our weekly newsletter featuring association updates and statewide legislative news. They also retain opportunities to connect with both active and retired policing professionals, maintaining valuable relationships built throughout their careers.
Frequently Asked Questions
About Membership
CPCA empowers California’s law enforcement leaders by championing critical policy positions and serving as a strong, unified voice on issues impacting our communities through the following initiatives:
- Delivering executive-level training and professional development opportunities
- Providing collaboration and leadership opportunities through member-driven committees
- Advocating for policing leaders at the Capitol and keeping members informed with regular legislative updates
- Providing executive-level peer support and wellness initiatives to members
Our mission is to serve as the voice and resource of choice for California law enforcement leaders.
Joining and Renewing
Joining is easy! Complete the online application for your membership type. Once your application is reviewed, you’ll receive a welcome email with everything you need to get started.
The membership year begins on July 1 and ends on June 30 each year.
All memberships are automatically enrolled in auto-renewal. You’ll receive your renewal notice and invoice as your current membership term ends. Want to simplify things even more? Opt in to auto-pay to have your dues automatically charged to your card each year.
Yes. Your agency’s Billing Contact, Primary Contact, or anyone with Management Access can view and pay invoices on behalf of your agency. Need help assigning roles? Contact Heidi Ursino for assistance.
Member Benefits
Becoming a member of the California Police Chiefs Association (CPCA) connects you to a statewide network of law enforcement professionals dedicated to advancing the profession, developing future leaders, and strengthening public safety across California. Whether you are a Police Chief or an emerging leader, CPCA membership offers unmatched advocacy, professional growth, and peer connection opportunities.
Advocacy and Representation
Your voice matters. CPCA provides strong, consistent advocacy on behalf of California’s law enforcement executives, representing their interests on issues that affect public safety, leadership, and community trust.
Professional Development
Members receive exclusive pricing for CPCA’s professional development programs, including leadership courses, summits, and conferences designed to strengthen executive decision-making, team management, and strategic leadership.
Networking and Collaboration
CPCA offers unparalleled access to peers and mentors through exclusive networking events, regional meetings, and statewide gatherings—creating meaningful opportunities to share best practices and build lasting professional relationships.
Leadership Opportunities
Members can deepen their involvement by serving on advisory committees, contributing to the Member Voices Blog or 4 Star Conversations Podcast, and participating in CPCA governance through the Board of Directors.
Exclusive Resources and Support
- Executive Peer Support Program: The first program of its kind in the country, this initiative provides police chiefs with confidential access to a network of peer chiefs and clinical experts for professional and personal support in times of need.
- The Lead Well Initiative (Coming Soon): A wellness and resilience program tailored specifically for police chiefs, focused on leadership sustainability and personal well-being.
- Legal and Informational Benefits: Includes a free 30-minute legal consultation with Jones & Mayer, weekly association updates, and access to the online Member Community and Resource Libraries.
- Representation: Every member is supported by their regional CPCA Board representative, ensuring that local needs and perspectives are represented at the state level.
CPCA’s programs are designed specifically for law enforcement executives and their teams. Members enjoy access to relevant, high-quality content at discounted rates for events and courses.
While most CPCA events are open to all policing professionals, many resources—such as the online community, peer support, and resource libraries—are exclusive to members.
Our legislative program includes an active committee of CPCA members and a dedicated Legislative Advocate who represents your interests at the Capitol—advancing key initiatives and stopping harmful legislation.
Members can connect through:
- Regional meetings and events
- CPCA training programs and summits
- Online Communities and discussion boards
- Committee service opportunities
Yes! CPCA members receive special discounted pricing for most events, trainings, and conferences.
Member Portal and Engagement
Visit www.californiapolicechiefs.org and click Log In to access your MemberCompass.
Log in to your MemberCompass, select Profile, and make your updates.
Get involved by joining a committee, attending events, participating in the online community, or nominating yourself for a leadership role on the CPCA Board.