Who we are

The International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen^SM), is a globally recognized, fully independent non-profit credentialing organization dedicated to advancing professional excellence in genealogical research and reporting.

A Board of Commissioners comprised of both elected and appointed AG professionals oversees the organization, and ICAPGen remains fully independent of any other organization. Its primary credential award is the Accredited Genealogist^® (AG^®) credential, with a secondary designation for Accredited Genealogist Lecturer^TM (AGL^TM).

What the Accredited Genealogist credential means

The AG credential recognizes experience and expertise for research in specific geographical regions. Expertise is evaluated through a series of rigorous written and oral examinations. Candidates who demonstrate depth of expertise, ethical practice, and mastery of regional research standards, meeting stringent competency benchmarks, they are awarded the AG credential and designated research experts in that region. The credential provides clients and the public with confidence in their professional capabilities and commitment to industry best practices.

What the Accredited Genealogist Lecturer credential means

The AGL credential recognizes experience AG professionals who demonstrate excellence in both subject matter and presentation skills. Candidates must hold an active ICAPGen accreditation and have a consistent track record of delivering high-quality genealogy lectures at a variety of skill levels and venues.

Where we are

Our Accredited Genealogist professionals can be found worldwide. Each has proven research expertise in one or more of 10 United States regions and 34 different countries, with more accreditation regions coming soon.

What we know and do

Those who hold the AG credential have demonstrated knowledge of the key sources, history, geography, methodologies, and language of their region of interest and know how to access those records, wherever they exist, whether it is through personal onsite research, correspondence with repositories, or through a representative onsite.  They are also proficient in the use of digitized original sources online. Accredited Genealogist professionals possess skills to transcribe and abstract handwritten documents, analyze and interpret evidence, and communicate research results in quality written reports.

Additionally, AG professionals who also hold the AGL credential have demonstrated clear instruction, logical organization, effective visual aids, well-documented materials, and responsive teaching practices in outstanding genealogy presentations covering multiple skill levels in a variety of venues.

Where we test

Exams are primarily held at the FamilySearch Library in Salt Lake City, Utah. For those who prefer to test elsewhere, a proctored exam may be arranged at a local facility. All Oral Reviews are conducted through videoconferencing.

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For more about our history, the accreditation process, regions of accreditation, and more, please visit our website: ICAPGen