Download the PCI Action Guide
As you work toward your PCI certification, ASIS resources can help guide you through each step of the process and set you up for success before, during, and after your exam. Use this quick-reference guide to review the steps you’ll need to take to earn your PCI certification.
Take the next step and apply for your PCI Certification.
Getting Started
Certification Handbook
Review all the policies and procedures you’ll need to follow to apply, study, and sit for each exam, including familiarizing yourself with the exam contents for each program.
Self-Assessment Guide
Assess your readiness for each of the certification programs. Use this tool to help you decide which exam is right for you and to set your study plans. *Note: Does not currently include APP certification.
Becoming a Professional Certified Investigator (PCI)
Why Apply for the PCI?
Earning a Professional Certified Investigator (PCIⓇ) designation provides independent confirmation of your specialized skills in security investigations, including case evaluation and review of options for case management strategies. It validates your ability to collect information through the effective use of surveillance, interviews, and interrogations.
What's on the Exam?
The PCI examination consists of 125 scored multiple-choice questions and may also contain 15 randomly distributed pre-test (unscored) questions for a total of up to 140 questions. The 2.5 hours allowed takes into consideration the review of pre-test items.
The exam covers tasks, knowledge, and skills in three primary domains that have been identified by professional investigators as required areas of competency in this field.
Eligibility
Three (3) to five (5) years of investigations experience depending on education level and two years of case management
AND
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Have been employed full-time in a security-related role
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Not have been convicted of any criminal offense that would reflect negatively on the security profession, ASIS, or the certification program
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Sign and agree to abide by the ASIS Certification Code of Conduct
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Agree to abide by the policies of the ASIS Certification programs as outlined in the Certification Handbook.
*Definitions for this term can be found in the Certification Handbook.
Fees
ASIS members: $550
- Emerging Market 1: $450
- Emerging Market 2: $430
Nonmembers: $855
- Emerging Market 1: $680
- Emerging Market 2: $645
Retake Fees
CPP, PCI, PSP
ASIS Members and Nonmembers: $455
- Emerging Market 1: $340
- Emerging Market 2: $315
APP
ASIS Members and Nonmembers: $300
- Emerging Market 1: $225
- Emerging Market 2: $210
Preparing for the PCI Exam
Reference Material
We encourage candidates to refer to the below reference materials as you prepare for the PCI certification exam. Our item writers and reviewers use these same materials to reference the correct answers on our exams. Remember: the ASIS exams are experienced-based; therefore, you will need to apply your own experience to help you answer the questions correctly. Please don’t attempt to memorize these reference sets.
Protection of Assets (2021 edition) - Investigations
Investigations Standard
PCI Practice Exam
The PCI practice exam contains items that once appeared on the actual certification exams but are now retired. Use the practice exam to familiarize yourself with how exam items will appear on the current exam(s).
The PCI practice exam contains items that once appeared on the actual certification exams but are now retired. Use the practice exam to familiarize yourself with how exam items will appear on the current exam(s).
Study Resources
The PCI Study Guide includes information about the test and how to study for it, plus an outline of the recommended reference materials.
Flash Cards are a simple, yet comprehensive tool to help you identify key terms, understand critical concepts, and recall facts. Available in print or digital.
Many ASIS Chapters also offer study groups. Contact the ASIS Chapter in your area for more information.
FREE WEBINAR
Reaching Your Career Potential: Why ASIS Certifications Are a Vital Professional Investment
Listen to this free, on-demand webinar to learn more about ASIS certifications. We’ll explain each of these programs—including which program is right for you—how to apply for the exams, study tips, and why employers hire those with these designations. Plus, we’ll give you the answers to our most frequently asked questions to set you up for success!
Manage My Certification
The online ASIS certification portal provides a user-friendly experience for both exam applicants and those recertifying.
ASIS members and those who have applied for or taken an ASIS certification exam, already have a login to the portal. Those new to ASIS should follow the prompts to set up your account.
IMPORTANT: Please click the Calculate Hours button before adding new CPE credits in order to ensure your CPE total hours are correct.
Meet a PCI
"I’m recognized as a subject matter expert, and I’ve been given greater job responsibilities." - Nicholas G. Breiner, CPP, PCI, PSP
Nicholas G. Breiner, CPP, PCI, PSP, got a taste of the security field shortly after high school when he worked for two corporate security departments. But his true passion lay in law enforcement, so in 1995 he joined the Belleville Police Department in New Jersey.
Taking the exam
Ready for exam day?
Get details on taking the exam, including check-in procedures, weather emergencies, and getting your results.
