Professional Groups

In the United States, there are several groups that serve the interests of professional genealogists and their clients. The Association of Professional Genealogists (3421 M Street N.W., Suite 236, Washington, DC 20007) is a membership organization that does not administer tests, award credentials, or otherwise endorse individual researchers. The association does offer arbitration in the event a dispute arises between any association member and the genealogical public. A publication that lists members' names, addresses, and areas of expertise is the APG Directory of Professional Genealogists. This can be ordered from the APG office; it is revised every two years.

The Board for Certification of Genealogists (P.O. Box 14291, Washington, DC 20044) screens applicants through a testing process and offers several classes of certification. It will also provide a roster of certified genealogists for a small fee.

A long-standing program, to examine and certify researchers in specialized geographic areas, has been conducted by the Family History Library. A roster of researchers who have met the requirements is available (include a self-addressed, stamped envelope) from Accredited Genealogists, Family History Library, 35 North West Temple, Salt Lake City, UT 84150.

For information on other professional groups, see chapter 2.