Verification Standards

Overall policies and standards

Introduction

Individuals are required to submit documentation to support all education data saved in the PD Registry. Individuals do not have to submit originals or official copies for verification. The PD Registry accepts unofficial documents. Clear copies will be accepted in most cases though the PD Registry reserves the right to request original documentation if needed. Schedules will not be accepted as appropriate documentation for formal education, credentials, or training because accepted documentation must indicate that the individual completed the education.

The PD Registry requires that all non-U.S. education be translated and evaluated by an approved accredited translation firm before it is accepted and saved. The translation and evaluation document from the translation firm will be accepted as documentation for the education level as evaluated. A copy of the original untranslated document is preferred but not required.

List of approved translation and evaluation agencies

To be approved, translation firms must be a member of National Association of Credential Evaluation Services, Inc. (NACES) or another national or regional organization with equivalent standards.

The Professional Development Registry only accepts documents from post-secondary schools that are regionally accredited by a Regional Accrediting Agency. Regional Accrediting Agencies must be listed and active with the U.S. Department of Education.

The local regional accrediting agency for Florida is the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools.