Determining Agency Eligibility
Proposed eligibility is limited to governmental organizations, accredited colleges and universities, and non-profit organizations that meet one of the following criteria:

• Are authorized by appropriate outside authority to provide a comprehensive basic law enforcement-training program.
• Have the responsibility for the development and/or delivery of advanced or in service broad scope public safety training.
• Have been determined appropriate by CALEA Commissioners.

Generally, short-term specialty training, whether provided by public or commercial organizations, would not meet the intent of this program.

Agency Size
The program applies to all agencies and institutions regardless of size.

There is a provision for a "unique" agency that because of its mission, size, location, or other factors may not fit the paradigm.

Agencies that seek accreditation are required to comply only with those standards that are specifically applicable to them.  Applicable standards are categorized as mandatory or other-than-mandatory. Agencies must comply with all applicable mandatory (M) standards and 80% of applicable other-than-mandatory (O) standards.  If an agency cannot comply with a standard because of legislation, labor agreements, court orders, or case law, waivers can be sought from the Commission.