Become a Certified Team

Tim Jamie Moose The purpose of the CSD Evaluation Test is to certify that the service dog teams tested meet the standards for public access that are outlined by the Assistance Dogs International (ADI) Organization. It places certification within the grasp of privately trained teams who have been frustrated in their efforts to achieve formal certification in the past. Though not required under law, certification does increase public confidence in service dogs. Interested teams must complete the application process PRIOR to being allowed to take the certification test. You will be issued a Test Ticket and must present this to your Evaluator at the time of testing. No ticket, no test, no exceptions.

Qualifications for teams to take the CSD Test

The dogs must have passed the Canine Good Citizen Test (or equivalent) no earlier than their first birthday. If a dog has taken and passed the test prior to the first birthday, then the test must be taken again.
The dog must be at least 18 months of age.
The dog must have their current County license tag as well as their name and phone number identification tag displayed on their collar.
The dog must have proof of up to date vaccination, spay or neuter and a letter from a veterinarian (dated within 30 days of test) stating that the dog is in good health and able to perform their service duties.
The dog must have been trained to perform service tasks related to hearing impairment, mobility impairment, medical alert or psychological assistance. This test is not designed to certify guide dogs for the blind.
The dog must be clean and properly groomed.
The handler must have a letter from their treating physician simply stating that they are being treated for a disabling medical condition. The FSDS does not require any individual or their treating physician to disclose the nature of the disability.

Applications must be submitted by mail. Click here to continue to the application page.