Renewal of Credential

The GAPS Certified Specialist credentials are good for four years from the date of issuance. GAPS membership must be active at the time of renewal. The renewal of credential process applies to credentials that were obtained through honorary status as well.

For purposes of professional development, GAPS requires credentials be renewed by earning 20 renewal credits during the active (4-year) credential period. GAPS offers a one-year grace period on renewals. Renewal credits are awarded by Grant Alliance for Public Safety, Inc. 

The first renewal credential will be issued for a period of 4 years of validity. Following the second credential renewal, the certification converts to lifetime status and is permanent.

Earning GAPS Renewal Credits

• Watch free recorded Webinars for 1 credit each (approx 20 minutes per webinar)
• Certificate of Completion for GAPS On-Demand Online Courses - Students earn 3 credits for each course successfully completed.
• Author an article for GAPS Blog or Newsletter - Earn 1 credit per article posted. 
• Sole grant writer for awarded government grants. Provide funder documentation of the awarded grant (minimum award $50,000) and a letter from the grant application authorized signer on the Applicant's letterhead stating the GAPS member was the sole grant writer. Earn 5 renewal credits per award. 
• Attend a GAPS Conference - Attendees earn 1 credit for each session attended. 
• Presenting at the GAPS Conference - Speakers earn 5 credits per presentation, must be a GAPS Conference attendee.