Indiana Polygraph Association

Indiana Polygraph Association: An Introduction

The Indiana Polygraph Association (IPA) is a professional organization representing polygraph examiners throughout Indiana and neighboring states. Founded in 1971, the IPA has grown into a dedicated professional body with over fifty active members from across the region. The association serves both private examiners and law enforcement polygraph professionals, maintaining its commitment to advancing the science and practice of polygraphy through education, ethical standards, and professional development.

History & Evolution

Founded on the campus of Butler University in Indianapolis, the IPA began as a collective effort of polygraphists gathered for a training seminar. This group aimed to provide meaningful training and facilitate the exchange of ideas and information related to the polygraph profession. The IPA has evolved from an informal group into a professional body, adapting to changes and advancements in polygraph technology and methods. During this time, many obstacles have been overcome and many changes have occurred. Standards have been developed and the instrumentation has changed from analog (mechanical) to the modern computer polygraph age.

Mission & Professional Standards

Indiana Polygraph Association provides ways and means for Polygraph Examiners of this state to unite in continuous efforts and promote and encourage the dissemination of new ideas, methods and techniques which will enable the Polygraph Examiner to improve his skills and proficiency in the use of the Polygraph. The association promotes adherence to the code of ethics as adopted by the Indiana Polygraph Association and supports the proposed licensing act for polygraph examiners in Indiana. The IPA aligns with our Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice to ensure the highest professional standards in the field.

Membership, Benefits & Dues

Membership with the IPA requires that an individual be a polygraph examiner in good standing. This necessitates that an individual attend and meet the requirements to be a polygraph examiner at an accredited polygraph school. A background check is conducted on each individual before being voted as a member. Applicant must be present at an IPA Conference in order to be voted into membership. Annual membership dues are $75 per year. Several polygraph examiners have achieved the status of Life-Time Member for the many years they dedicated to the association.

Training, Seminars & Continuing Education

The IPA normally meets biannually in Indianapolis due to its central location for the membership. The meetings include either a one or two day seminar. The training is provided by a variety of speakers on the many aspects of the polygraph profession. This training is a large portion of the required continuing education requirement for a polygraph examiner. The 2024 Spring Seminar was held on April 23, 2024 at the Indiana State Police Post Indianapolis, featuring recent developments in polygraph and polygraph research. Meetings also provide an opportunity for examiners to meet with representatives from the Lafayette Instrument Company. This is the manufacturer where most of the local examiners have purchased their polygraph instrument. The members are given updated information and software.

State Licensing & Regulation

Indiana offers voluntary certification for polygraph examiners through the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency. While not mandatory, the certification provides professional recognition and credibility. The state has established provisions for a polygraph examiner certification board and requirements for certification, though implementation remains voluntary. The IPA actively supports professional licensing efforts to enhance examiner qualifications and public protection.

Role in the Broader Profession

A notable aspect of the IPA's operations is its relationship with the Lafayette Instrument Company, a significant provider of polygraph instruments. This partnership ensures that IPA members have access to the latest equipment and software updates, facilitating the adoption of modern polygraph techniques. The association maintains strong connections to the leading national polygraph association and is listed in our comprehensive Polygraph Associations Directory. The Indiana Polygraph Association is committed to continuing the achievements made by our veteran members and the professional polygraph discipline.

Indiana offers voluntary certification for polygraph examiners through the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency. While polygraph licensure is not mandatory in Indiana, the state has established a framework for voluntary certification to enhance professional standards. The Private Investigator and Security Guard Licensing Board under the Indiana Professional Licensing Agency oversees polygraph examiner certification. Certification requirements include being at least 21 years old, completing an accredited American Polygraph Association school or American Association of Police Polygraphists basic course, and meeting additional standards established by the board. The certification process may include demonstrating experience and competence in polygraph operations and passing a written examination. The Indiana Professional Licensing Agency is located at 100 North Senate Ave., Room 312 Indianapolis, IN 46204 and can be reached at 1-800-457-8283.