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APCO Agency Training Program Accreditation

Why ATPA Matters

Public safety telecommunicators are the critical first link in emergency response. As technology evolves and call volumes increase, standardized training ensures your team delivers consistent, professional service when every second counts.

The APCO Agency Training Program Accreditation (ATPA)—a Project 33 initiative—recognizes agencies that meet or exceed national training standards, demonstrating your commitment to excellence in public safety communications.

The ATPA Standard

Accreditation is based on compliance with APCO ANS 3.103.3-2025: Minimum Training Standards for Public Safety Telecommunicators (PST 2025). Your curriculum, training materials, and supporting documentation will be evaluated against this nationally recognized standard.

Your Path to Accreditation

Step 1: Learn
  • Review the ATPA Rules and Procedures
  • Download and study APCO ANS 3.103.3-2025
  • Complete the required online pre-application training
Step 2: Prepare
  • Align your training program with the standard
  • Gather your curriculum and documentation
  • Ensure you're ready before applying
Step 3: Apply
  • Submit your application materials
  • Pay the non-refundable application fee:
  • $650 for APCO Agency Group Members
  • $700 for APCO Individual Members or non-members
Step 4: Review & Accreditation
  • Expert reviewers evaluate your submission
  • Receive feedback and achieve accreditation

Ready to Get Started?

The process is designed to support you every step of the way. You can move forward with confidence, knowing you’re prepared to achieve great things.
The APCO Minimum Training Standards for Telecommunicator is the core standard upon which the Agency Training Program Accreditation is based. Understanding this Standard is essential to success.
APCO has instituted a mandatory training presentation for all candidate Agencies. Completion of this training is required prior to proceeding in the process.
At the completion of the training course, you will be asked to affirm that you have completed the entire class and understand the requirements and obligations of this program. Once completed, you will receive a Certificate of Training. Please upload the certificate via this button in order to enable you to proceed in the process.