What's the best way for a genealogist to get their professional certification?

If you mean professional certification as a working genealogist, the best-known U.S. path is the Certified Genealogist® (CG®) credential through the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG). Another respected route is Accredited Genealogist® (AG®) through International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen).

My recommendation: start with the CG®

For most genealogists who want a broadly applicable professional credential, I'd pursue the CG® first.

The basic process is:

1. Build substantial research experience. You don't necessarily need a genealogy degree. BCG emphasizes demonstrated research competence rather than a particular academic background.
2. Study the BCG standards and application requirements. The certification is portfolio-based, so you'll need to demonstrate that you can conduct reasonably exhaustive research, analyze evidence, cite sources correctly, and communicate conclusions professionally.
3. Complete the preliminary application. BCG's current preliminary application gives you one year to submit the final portfolio.
4. Create your portfolio. This is the heart of the process. Rather than simply passing a multiple-choice exam, you submit actual genealogical work that is evaluated against professional standards.
5. Have the portfolio evaluated. If successful, you receive the CG® credential, which is currently awarded for five years and requires ongoing maintenance.

When AG® might be better

If you have a particular geographic specialty—say Ireland, England, Germany, the American South, or a particular U.S. region—ICAPGen's AG® credential can be especially attractive because it is regionally focused.

ICAPGen currently recommends having about 1,000 hours of combined genealogical research and education, including at least 500 hours in your chosen region, before applying. Icapgen The process includes a four-generation project, written examinations, a final project, and an oral review.

A good career-building sequence

I'd approach it this way:

Learn → practice → specialize → build a portfolio → certify → maintain the credential.

Don't rush into certification simply because you've accumulated a certain number of years doing genealogy. The more useful preparation is deliberately doing complex research problems, writing formal proof arguments/reports, practicing evidence analysis, and getting your work critiqued by experienced genealogists.

If you tell me how experienced you are (beginner, intermediate, or already doing client work) and what geographic areas you specialize in, I can lay out a practical 12–24 month path to becoming a CG®, including the best education, books, institutes, and portfolio-preparation steps.

In North America, there is no single "government" license for genealogists. Instead, professional standing is established through one of two major, highly respected non-profit credentialing bodies.

Choosing the "best" way depends entirely on whether your strengths lean toward deep regional expertise and practical testing or comprehensive portfolio evaluation and analytical writing.

Step 1: Choose Your Credentialing Path

Path A: Certified Genealogist (CG) via the

• The Focus: Broad methodological competence, analytical rigor, adherence to the Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS), and high-level writing.
• The Process: A rigorous portfolio-based evaluation. You submit a multi-part application that typically includes document work (transcriptions/analysis), a research report prepared for a client or third party, a complex case study, and a multi-generation kinship-determination project.
• Best if: You excel at crafting complex proof arguments, enjoy writing detailed analytical case studies, and want a generalist credential that proves you can research anywhere by applying universal standards.

Path B: Accredited Genealogist (AG) via the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen)

• The Focus: Exhaustive, specialized expertise in the records and methodology of a specific geographic region (e.g., Ireland, Germany, New England, or the US Mid-Atlantic).
• The Process: A multi-level testing system. It starts with a 4-generation research report (Level 1), followed by intensive written and practical examinations on regional record collections and historical contexts (Level 2), a timed practical research project (Level 3), and an oral review.
• Best if: You prefer a structured, step-by-step testing format, want to prove absolute mastery over a specific geographical or jurisdictional area's records, and do a heavy volume of localized client work.

Step 2: Build Your Foundation (Pre-Application)

Neither credential can be achieved "cold." Before applying, you should actively immerse yourself in professional standards:

• Master the Standards: Read and study Genealogy Standards published by BCG, which serves as the industry benchmark for both paths.
• Log Education & Experience: Attend major genealogical institutes (such as IGHR, GRIP, or SLIG), join the Association of Professional Genealogists (APG), and log hundreds of hours of practical research.
• Practice Peer Critique: Join study groups (like Research Like a Pro or specific BCG/ICAPGen study groups) where experienced professionals can brutally and kindly pick apart your source citations and logic before a board does.

Step 3: Execute and Submit

• For BCG: Track your continuing education, meticulously format your source citations to match Evidence Explained , and compile your portfolio to match the current application guides. Take advantage of structured multi-part or staged application options if available to get checkpoint feedback.
• For ICAPGen: Prepare for the extensive regional competency exams by studying local jurisdictions, paleography (reading old handwriting), and repository access for your chosen target area.

Note: Both credentials require formal renewal and proof of continuing education every five years to ensure you stay active and up-to-date with evolving standards (like genetic genealogy integration).

Are you leaning more toward general methodology and case-study writing (BCG) or mastering a specific geographic region's records (ICAPGen) ? If you share your focus, I can help point you toward specific study groups or preparation materials.

If you mean professional credentialing in the U.S. genealogy field, there are two major routes, and the best choice depends on what kind of work you want to do.

1. Certified Genealogist® (CG) — best for broad professional practice

The Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG) awards the Certified Genealogist credential. It is probably the strongest choice if you want to demonstrate broad competence in professional genealogical research, documentation, analysis, and written work.

The emphasis is on demonstrating your actual ability, rather than simply completing a course or degree. You build a portfolio of work that is evaluated against professional standards.

A typical path is:

• Study BCG's standards and genealogical methodology.
• Build substantial research experience.
• Learn to conduct reasonably exhaustive research and properly cite and analyze evidence.
• Prepare the required portfolio components.
• Submit the portfolio for evaluation.
• Maintain the credential through renewal requirements.

BCG certification is not region-specific, which makes it particularly useful if you expect to work on clients' research from many geographic areas.

2. Accredited Genealogist® (AG®) — best for regional specialization

The International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen) offers the Accredited Genealogist credential.

This route is especially attractive if you want to become an expert in a particular geographic region—for example, a particular U.S. region, Scandinavian research, British Isles research, etc.

ICAPGen expects substantial preparation. Its current guidance says candidates should generally have 1,000 hours of combined genealogical research and education, including at least 500 hours focused on the region of accreditation.

The process includes a four-generation project, written examinations, and an oral review. Successfully completing all phases earns the AG® designation.

Which would I choose?

My recommendation for someone starting a professional genealogy career: don't rush into certification. Spend the first phase deliberately building research experience, taking high-quality genealogy education, practicing professional-level reports and citations, and getting feedback from experienced genealogists. Then choose CG if you want a broadly applicable professional credential, or AG® if you already know your geographic specialty.

One important distinction: a genealogy degree or certificate is education; CG and AG® are professional credentials that assess demonstrated competence. ICAPGen explicitly says formal genealogical training isn't required for AG®—experience and demonstrated ability are what matter.

If you tell me whether you're already doing genealogy professionally, are just starting, or are an experienced hobbyist, I can lay out a realistic 1–3 year path to certification, including education, estimated costs, and what to work on first.

In the United States and much of the English-speaking genealogical community, there is no single government-issued license for genealogists. Instead, "professional certification" or "accreditation" is managed by independent, peer-reviewed professional bodies.

The "best" way to get certified depends on whether you prefer portfolio-based peer review or regional/topic-based testing. Two gold-standard credentials exist:

• Certified Genealogist (CG) via the
• Accredited Genealogist (AG) via the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen)

Path 1: The BCG Portfolio Route (Certified Genealogist / CG)

The BCG focuses on a comprehensive portfolio demonstrating deep analytical skill, methodology, adherence to Genealogy Standards , and writing capability.

1. Build a Foundation: Study Genealogy Standards (the BCG guidebook) and master evidence analysis, citation formatting (Evidence Explained style), and professional-level research reporting. Many candidates take intermediate-to-advanced courses (like those at Boston University, ProGen, or Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy) before applying.
2. Submit a Pre-Application / Renewal Phase: Start the formal application clock and pull together your educational/development logs.
3. Compile the Portfolio: You will submit a rigorous portfolio that typically includes:
   • A signed code of ethics and development activities.
   • A 3-generation or 4-generation research report based on a client or hypothetical project.
   • A comprehensive case study demonstrating complex problem-solving.
   • A Kinship-Determination Project (KDP) proving relationships across multiple generations using exhaustive research and sound correlation.
4. Independent Evaluation: Your blind portfolio is reviewed and graded independently by 3 to 4 certified peer evaluators.

Path 2: The ICAPGen Testing Route (Accredited Genealogist / AG)

ICAPGen focuses heavily on regional or topical expertise, testing your ability to exhaustively research a specific geographic area or record collection type under examination conditions.

1. Select a Specialization: Choose a geographic region or research focus (e.g., Germans to America, or a specific U.S. state/country).
2. Pass the Level 1 Readiness Assessment: An initial evaluation of your foundational knowledge and a mini-research project to see if you are prepared for the full exam.
3. Complete the Four-Generation Project: A multi-generation research chart and associated paperwork proving competency in that specific region’s records.
4. Pass Timed Practical Exams: Take rigorous, timed examinations that test your paleography, local history knowledge, and ability to analyze and abstract original records on the spot.
5. Oral Review: Complete an exhaustive oral defense/review with a panel of Accredited Genealogists.

Recommended Preparatory Stepping Stones

Most applicants don’t jump straight into the application without preparation. Successful candidates usually utilize peer study groups and structured learning:

• ProGen Study Groups: A collaborative, self-directed mentoring program designed specifically to help participants work through the standards required for BCG portfolios.
• Institutes: Attend immersive multi-day programs such as the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy (SLIG), the Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research (IGHR), or Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh (GRIP).

Are you leaning toward a specific geographic region or record set (which fits ICAPGen well), or a broader methodology portfolio (which fits BCG)? Let me know and I can share more tailored study resources.

If you mean professional credentialing in the U.S., there are two major routes: Certified Genealogist® (CG) through the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG), and Accredited Genealogist® (AG®) through ICAPGen. There is no government license required to work as a genealogist.

1. Certified Genealogist® — BCG

This is probably the best choice if you want a broad, profession-wide credential emphasizing research methodology, evidence analysis, documentation, and professional work products.

The basic approach is to:

1. Build substantial research experience and education.
2. Study the Genealogy Standards and BCG's portfolio requirements.
3. Prepare a portfolio demonstrating your ability to do professional-level research, analyze evidence, and communicate conclusions.
4. Submit the portfolio to BCG for evaluation.

It's less about passing a conventional exam and more about having your actual genealogical work evaluated against professional standards.

2. Accredited Genealogist® — ICAPGen

This is particularly attractive if you want to establish expertise in a specific geographic region—for example, U.S. Mid-South, England, Ireland, etc.

ICAPGen's process is more structured. It includes:

• A readiness/application process
• A Four Generation Project
• Written examinations
• An oral review

The Four Generation Project requires you to connect four generations and demonstrate research strategy, evidence analysis, source citation, and client-quality reporting. The typical report is about 25–40 pages, accompanied by research logs, pedigree/family-group materials, and key source documents.

ICAPGen also expects significant preparation and experience; its current guidance centers on research and education experience and expertise in the region you're applying for.

Which should you choose?

You don't necessarily have to choose only one. Experienced genealogists can pursue both, and ICAPGen explicitly recognizes existing credentials in its experience requirements.

My recommendation: If you're starting from scratch and ultimately want to make genealogy a serious profession, I'd first develop strong research skills and a specialty, then pursue BCG's Certified Genealogist® credential if you want the broadest professional credential. If you already know that your practice will focus heavily on a particular region, ICAPGen's AG® route may be the more natural fit.

If you tell me your current experience level (beginner, hobbyist, already doing paid research, etc.) and what kind of genealogy you want to specialize in, I can lay out a realistic 12–24 month path to certification, including education, practice, portfolio work, and approximate costs.

There is no single government-mandated license for genealogists ; instead, professional credibility is earned through rigorous, peer-assessed credentialing bodies . In the United States and globally, the two gold-standard paths are Certification through the Board for Certification of Genealogists (awarding the CG credential) and Accreditation through the International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (awarding the AG credential).

The best way to approach getting a professional credential involves a structured, multi-step roadmap:

1. Build a Foundation of Knowledge and Skills
   • Master the Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS) , exhaustive research, source citation, and objective analysis.
   • Study industry benchmarks like the manual Genealogy Standards.
   • Take foundational courses or multi-year programs (such as those offered through the National Genealogical Society or genealogical institutes like GRIP or SLIG).
2. Participate in a Peer Study Group
   • Join a structured mentorship initiative like a ProGen Study Group , which takes small cohorts through professional-level assignments, research planning, and report writing based on standard methodology.
3. Choose Your Credentialing Path
   • Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG): Focuses on a comprehensive portfolio submission demonstrating deep analytical and writing skills (including a kinship-determination project, a complex case study, and a client research report).
   • International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen): Focuses heavily on regional and jurisdictional expertise, requiring multi-part written/practical examinations and a 4-generation research project focused on a specific geographic territory.
4. Compile and Submit Your Portfolio or Take Exams
   • Follow the organization's specific application guides closely. Ensure all work samples are original, independent, and utilize a family line other than your own direct ancestry.
5. Maintain Your Credential
   • Both major credentialing bodies require re-certification every five years , which involves proving ongoing continuing education, professional development, and adherence to their ethical codes.

Are you leaning toward the portfolio-based BCG certification (CG) or the regionally focused ICAPGen accreditation (AG)? If you share your area of focus or experience level , I can help you pick the right preparatory courses.

If you mean professional genealogy certification in the U.S., the strongest path is usually to work toward the Certified Genealogist® (CG®) credential through the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG).

There are two major professional credentials worth knowing about:

1. Certified Genealogist® (CG®) — BCG

This is probably the best choice if you want a broad, research-focused professional credential.

BCG evaluates your ability to conduct sound research, analyze evidence, make kinship determinations, and communicate conclusions according to established genealogical standards. Certification is based primarily on a portfolio of your actual work, which is independently evaluated by BCG judges.

A good preparation sequence is:

1. Build substantial research experience. Don't rush into certification simply because you've completed a genealogy course.
2. Learn the Genealogy Standards thoroughly—the standards are essentially the measuring stick against which your portfolio will be judged.
3. Study professional research methodology, especially evidence analysis, source citation, reasonably exhaustive research, and proof arguments.
4. Practice producing professional-quality reports and case studies.
5. Assemble the BCG portfolio according to the current application guide and rubrics.
6. Submit it for evaluation and use the judges' feedback to identify weaknesses if you don't pass on the first attempt.
7. Maintain the credential—BCG requires renewal every five years.

2. Accredited Genealogist® (AG®) — ICAPGen

International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen) offers a somewhat different route. AG® is regionally focused: you demonstrate deep knowledge of the records, history, geography, methodology, and often language of a particular geographic region.

The current ICAPGen process includes a four-generation project, written examinations, and an oral review. ICAPGen says candidates should have roughly 1,000 hours of combined genealogy research and education, including substantial experience in their chosen region, before testing.

Which should you pursue?

My recommendation: If you're starting from scratch and want genealogy to become a serious profession, I'd build toward CG® rather than treating certification as a course you simply complete. Spend the early period deliberately developing research skills, taking high-quality institutes/courses, practicing written case studies, and having experienced genealogists critique your work.

If you tell me your current level of genealogy experience and whether you want to do client work, forensic genealogy, or genealogy mainly for your own family, I can lay out a realistic 6–24 month path to certification, including the training and books I'd prioritize.

For a genealogist, getting a professional credential is less about taking a single class and more about proving your competence against rigorous industry standards . In the United States, there is no single government license or mandatory degree; instead, professional standing is earned through one of two major, respected credentialing bodies.

Choosing the "best" way depends entirely on whether your strength lies in portfolio-based academic analysis or regional research expertise tested through exams.

Step 1: Choose Your Credentialing Path

1. Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG)
   • Credential Earned: Certified Genealogist (CG®CG raised to the ® power C G®)
   • The Focus: A comprehensive portfolio evaluating your adherence to the Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS), source documentation, and advanced analytical writing (such as case studies and kinship-determination projects).
   • Best For: Genealogists who excel at deep investigative writing, resolving complex conflicting evidence, and compiling exhaustive proof arguments.
2. International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen)
   • Credential Earned: Accredited Genealogist (AG®AG raised to the ® power A G®)
   • The Focus: Proving deep research capability and historical/legal knowledge within one of 43 specific geographical or topical regions, evaluated via a multi-generation research project, timed proctored examinations (document interpretation and regional knowledge), and an oral review.
   • Best For: Genealogists who consider themselves regional experts (e.g., specific U.S. states, Scandinavia, or the British Isles) and want to demonstrate practical, on-the-ground client-level research skills.

Step 2: Build Your Foundation (Education & Training)

Neither organization requires a specific degree, but passing their evaluations requires mastery of methodology . You should build your skills through structured educational avenues:

• Join Study Groups: Participate in peer-led or formal groups like ProGen (which provides practical, structured assignments aligned with professional standards).
• Attend Institutes: Immersive programs like the Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh (GRIP) , the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy (SLIG) , or Samford University’s IGHR offer high-level methodological training.
• Study the Manuals: Read and breathe Genealogy Standards (published by the BCG) and the respective application guides.

Step 3: Prepare and Submit Your Work

• For BCG (Certification): You will assemble a portfolio—including a document evaluation, a kinship determination project, a research report for a client/third-party, and a complex case study—which is blindly evaluated by a panel of certified judges.
• For ICAPGen (Accreditation): You will complete a multi-generation research project for your chosen region, pass written exams testing your paleography and local record knowledge, and undergo an oral defense with active professionals.

Both credentials require ongoing professional development and formal renewal every five years to ensure your skills remain current.

Perspectives from the Genealogy Community

Are you leaning more toward a regional specialization (ICAPGen) or a methodology and case-study focus (BCG)? Let me know, and I can help outline specific study groups or foundational reading for that path.

There is no legal state or federal licensing requirement to work or charge for services as a professional genealogist in the United States . However, obtaining a formal professional credential significantly builds peer and client trust.

The industry recognizes two premier, rigorous credentialing bodies, each taking a fundamentally different approach. The "best" way to get certified depends entirely on whether your strengths lie in a geographic specialty or comprehensive research portfolios and advanced writing.

Step 1: Choose Your Credentialing Path

• Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG)
  • Credential Earned: Certified Genealogist (CG®CG raised to the ® power C G®)
  • The Method: Portfolio-based evaluation. You submit a 12-month portfolio containing a client research report, a document transcription/analysis, a complex case study resolving conflicting evidence, and a multi-generation kinship-determination project.
  • Best For: Researchers who excel at deep analysis, resolving complex "brick walls," and academic or publication-quality genealogical writing.
• International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists (ICAPGen)
  • Credential Earned: Accredited Genealogist (AG®AG raised to the ® power A G®)
  • The Method: Multi-level testing and a regional project. You choose a specific geographic region (e.g., Ireland, Germany, or the U.S. Mid-Atlantic) and submit a 4-generation project for that area, followed by proctored multi-part written examinations and an oral review.
  • Best For: Specialists who possess exhaustive, granular knowledge of the historical records, laws, and repositories of a specific geographic locale.

Step 2: Build Your Foundational Skills & Experience

Before applying to either body, professionals generally recommend logging at least 1,000 hours of practical research and continuous education.

• Master the Genealogical Proof Standard (GPS): Both credentialing paths require absolute mastery of the 5-part GPS (exhaustive research, accurate citations, thorough analysis, conflict resolution, and soundly written conclusions).
• Join structured study groups: Programs like ProGen Study Groups provide peer-led, assignment-based accountability that walks participants through professional methodologies and standard source analysis.
• Attend institutes: Rather than generalized classes, many aspiring professionals attend premier intensive programs such as the Salt Lake Institute of Genealogy (SLIG) , the Genealogical Research Institute of Pittsburgh (GRIP), or the Institute of Genealogy and Historical Research (IGHR).

Step 3: Utilize Official Preparation Guides and Mentorship

Do not jump straight into an application cold. Both organizations offer targeted roadmaps:

• Tap into official resources like the BCG Application Guide or ICAPGen's Accreditation Readiness Assessment to gauge whether your work product currently meets industry benchmarks.
• Participate in official mentoring tracks—ICAPGen specifically runs regional study/mentoring groups designed to help candidates prepare for their four-generation projects and proctored exams.

Perspectives on the Process

“I'm only familiar with BCG but can definitely say that going through certification is worth it as it's a way to test your skills. Having the credential will be a plus if you're planning to do genealogy professionally”

Many professionals choose the ICAPGen path because of its deep focus on mastering a specific geographic region or record set, aiding in research for complex, localized ancestral lines.

Are you leaning toward a specific geographic region (which fits ICAPGen) or a general methodology/case-study focus (which fits BCG)? I can help outline the next specific preparation steps for your chosen path.

If you mean professional certification as a working genealogist in the U.S., the strongest route is generally to pursue the Certified Genealogist® (CG) credential through the Board for Certification of Genealogists (BCG). There is no government license required to practice genealogy in the U.S.; professional credentials are voluntary.

The two credentials worth knowing

1. Certified Genealogist (CG) — BCG

• This is the credential I'd recommend if your goal is to demonstrate broad professional competence.
• It evaluates research, analysis, kinship determination, and reporting—not simply whether you've completed genealogy courses.
• You build a portfolio of actual genealogical work that is evaluated against professional standards.
• It's particularly appropriate if you want to do client research, forensic-style research, or establish yourself as a professional researcher.

2. Accredited Genealogist (AG) — ICAPGen

• The International Commission for the Accreditation of Professional Genealogists awards the AG credential.
• Its major distinction is regional specialization: you choose a geographic region and demonstrate expertise in researching there. ICAPGen currently has U.S., international, and African American accreditation regions.
• The process includes a four-generation project followed by written examinations and an oral review.

My recommended path

If you're starting from scratch, I would not rush directly into the credentialing application. A good progression is:

1. Build a solid research foundation — evidence analysis, source citation, methodology, historical context, and use of archives/databases.
2. Get substantial hands-on research experience, preferably in the geographic areas and record types you intend to specialize in.
3. Study the applicable professional standards and learn to produce client-quality reports and proof arguments.
4. Choose BCG's CG if you want broad professional certification.
5. Consider ICAPGen's AG instead—or eventually as a complement—if you have a strong geographic specialty.
6. Before applying, study successful examples, find a mentor/study group, and have experienced genealogists critique your work.

ICAPGen, for example, explicitly offers mentored study groups, and its four-generation project is designed to test whether you can research a defined objective, analyze evidence, and present the findings as you would to a client.

One important distinction: a university or genealogy institute may give you a certificate of completion, but that's different from a professional credential such as CG or AG. The latter are awarded after an independent assessment of your competence.

If you tell me your current experience level (beginner, intermediate, already doing paid research) and what kind of genealogy you want to specialize in, I can lay out a realistic 1–3 year path to CG or AG, including education, practice, portfolio preparation, and approximate costs.