The Cost

Initial Accreditation and Annual Continuation Fees

The initial accreditation fee is due when the agency signs its Communication Accreditation Agreement. There are two payment options available: a lump sum, single payment or two installments. Both payment options include an estimated On-site Assessment Charge. The fee includes the CALEA Accreditation Compliance Express-Communications (CACE-C) software program. CACE-C provides an agency with a powerful tool in completing the steps necessary to achieve the accredited  agency status and serves as a valuable asset in the overall management of the CALEA Accreditation Process.

The accreditation fees include an estimated On-site Assessment Charge, which covers the cost of travel, lodging, and per diem for the assessment team, as well as other related costs.

Once an agency receives its initial accreditation award, it pays an Annual Continuation Fee, which includes the estimated cost of its next on-site assessment. The following chart depicts current initial accreditation and continuation fees.

*The on-site charge (or on-site assessment charge) covers the cost of travel, lodging and per diem for the assessment team, as well as other related items.

Accreditation Agreement Extension and Fees

The initial Public Safety Communications Agreement between the agency and CALEA is for 24 months. If the agency has not completed self-assessment or scheduled its initial on-site by the end of the 24^th month, the agency may request an annual extension of the Agreement at a cost of 55% the initial accreditation fee in effect.