Thank you for your interest in becoming a member of Assistance Dogs International (ADI).  

ADI is a coalition of not-for-profit organizations that raise, train and place assistance dogs.  ADI does not directly provide, train, certify or register individual assistance dogs or assistance dog teams, as that is the function of our member organizations.  ADI certification is only available to assistance dog partnered teams that were trained by our accredited member organizations.

A golden retriever puppy is sitting with its head raised to meet a hand petting its head. Its eyes are closed. It is wearing a yellow assistance dog vest.

ADI accredits not-for-profit organizations that place assistance dogs to ensure that they adhere to the highest standards in all aspects of their operations, including ethical treatment and training of dogs, ethical treatment of clients and solid service dog training and follow up. Only organizations that have successfully completed this accreditation process may become Accredited Members of ADI. ADI does not offer membership to individuals or for-profit organizations.

Not-for-profit assistance dog organizations interested in joining ADI may do by applying as a Candidate organization. Candidate organizations are established not-for-profits or charitable organizations that are working towards achieving Accredited Member status.

The Candidate program provides a structured pathway to accreditation, supporting organizations as they align with ADI Standards through education, collaboration, and the exchange of best practices. Candidates are part of a global network committed to continuous improvement and excellence in the assistance dog industry.

Candidate organizations may apply to begin the accreditation process after a minimum of two (2) years in good standing and are expected to achieve full compliance with ADI Standards and complete accreditation within five (5) years. During this period, organizations are actively progressing toward meeting all ADI Standards.

ADI is dedicated to the support and success of our approved candidate organizations around the globe. Upon acceptance, Candidates gain access to numerous educational resources including ADI conferences and workshops, networking groups, webinars, the Candidate Benchmark Program, and access to the candidate’s area of the ADI website.

For additional information and application materials, please visit the Candidates Organization page.

Please review of the Summary of Standards before seeking candidacy.