American Association of Police Polygraphists

American Association of Police Polygraphists: An Introduction

The American Association of Police Polygraphists (AAPP) stands as the premier national organization exclusively dedicated to law enforcement polygraph examiners across the United States. Founded in 1976, the American Association of Police Polygraphists is a non-profit 501(c)(6) organization dedicated to bringing together law enforcement professionals from throughout the country to advance the latest training and technology in the polygraph examiner field. What distinguishes AAPP from other polygraph associations is its singular focus on law enforcement applications, serving police departments, sheriff's offices, federal agencies, and other investigative units that utilize polygraph technology in criminal investigations and internal affairs matters.

History & Evolution

Founded in 1976, the American Association of Police Polygraphists is a non-profit 501(c)(6) organization that emerged to address the specific needs of law enforcement polygraph examiners who required specialized training and professional standards distinct from private sector practice. The organization has grown from its founding to become the authoritative voice for police polygraph examiners nationwide. The AAPP is built on the exchange of ideas between its members who represent local, state, tribal, and federal law enforcement agencies, fostering collaboration across all levels of law enforcement.

Mission & Professional Standards

The AAPP strives for the highest standards and ethics among its members, while advancing a simple agenda; to bring the best training available on a consistent basis to polygraph examiners. All AAPP members are committed bound individually and collectively to the American Association of Police Polygraphists standards, objectives, and principles of practice of the American Association of Police Polygraphists, and existing state, federal and local existing law(s). This commitment aligns with our Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, ensuring that law enforcement polygraph examiners maintain the highest professional standards in their investigative work.

Membership, Benefits & Dues

Membership in the AAPP recognizes that the examiner has met licensing/certification requirements mandated in the state of residence/practice; and is a graduate of an AAPP recognized polygraph school. Members need to use the Member Registration form ONLY to receive the member registration rate of $375 for annual seminars. Members are able to apply and obtain a Forensic Examiner Certification which verifies the examiner is up to date and meets annual training requirements. Additional benefits include access to employment opportunities, continuing education resources, recognized polygraph schools directory, and polygraph instrument vendor listings through the organization's comprehensive member portal.

Training, Seminars & Continuing Education

AAPP conducts annual training seminars that serve as the cornerstone of law enforcement polygraph education. The 2026 seminar is scheduled for May 4-8 at Harrah's Atlantic City, New Jersey, with future seminars planned for Corpus Christi, Texas (2027) and Mobile, Alabama (2028). QC One on One Confidential Chart Review Bring your own charts · Cast Study - Cold Case represents just a sample of the specialized training offered. The organization provides John R. Schwartz Memorial Tuition Gifts and Elmer N. Criswell Jr. Memorial Scholarships to support examiner training and professional development.

Role in Law Enforcement Community

Being a member of the AAPP brings unparalleled opportunities to receive the best training along with so many different examiners from our nation's law enforcement community. The organization maintains strong connections with the leading national polygraph association and other professional bodies, contributing to the broader polygraph profession while maintaining its law enforcement focus. AAPP serves as a vital resource in our comprehensive Polygraph Associations Directory.

Polygraph Services in Law Enforcement

LieDetectorTest.com operates within the broader framework of professional polygraph services that includes law enforcement applications. Our Operating Framework ensures that all examinations meet professional standards established by organizations like AAPP. While our services primarily serve the private sector, we maintain awareness of law enforcement standards and practices. To book a test with our professional examiners, clients can access our nationwide network of qualified professionals.