About ICAPGen

The International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists, internationally recognized as ICAPGen, is a professional credentialing organization dedicated to testing an individual’s competence in genealogical research. The organization is administered by a board of qualified Commissioners with many years of experience. Professional credentials with ICAPGen provide numerous benefits. For additional information concerning ICAPGen, see history.

Examinations are given to applicants demonstrating sufficient theoretical and practical research backgrounds. A different exam is given for each geographical region, so individuals who pass an exam are rightfully designated as research experts in that region. Exams may also include subjects of specialization. Click here for information regarding the accreditation process.

Click here to see the benefits of becoming accredited through ICAPGen.

Questions? Please contact us.

Mission Statement

The mission of ICAPGen is to advance family history/genealogy work around the world by accrediting and promoting genealogy professionals who are competent, ethical, and reliable, and to work to promote the preservation of genealogical materials. The central functions of ICAPGen are:

* Recruiting, encouraging, mentoring, and educating genealogists.

* Testing each applicant's competency as a prerequisite for accreditation.

* Requiring periodic re-accreditation to assure currency of skills.

* Stipulating adherence to ethical standards.

* Maintaining a public directory of ICAPGen accredited professionals.

* Educating consumers about the value, process, and complexity of family history/genealogy research and maintaining good-will by working with clients and AG professionals if a dispute arises.

* Promoting the preservation of genealogical materials for future generations.

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Commission and Board

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History

The accreditation program was established in 1964 by the Family History Department of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. In 2000, the Church transferred its ownership and administration of the accreditation program to the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists, internationally recognized as ICAPGen^SM. At that time ICAPGen was an affiliate of the Utah Genealogical Association (UGA). Today, as a fully incorporated non-profit institution, the Commission appreciates the support of UGA, and the generosity of others who supported its founding. ICAPGen now operates as a completely independent testing (not membership) organization.

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