National Polygraph Association

National Polygraph Association: An Introduction

The National Polygraph Association's primary goal is to foster and perpetuate an accurate, reliable, and scientific means for the protection of the truthful and innocent individual. The NPA is recognized at a national level by organizations including PEAK Credibility Assessment Training Center as a legitimate professional organization serving polygraph examiners across the United States. Unlike some state-based associations, the NPA operates as a national body that welcomes members from all states and jurisdictions where polygraph examination is practiced.

Mission & Professional Standards

The association strives to improve the capabilities of its membership by promoting education, research, advanced training, and by shared experiences. Above all, the NPA dedicates itself to fostering and maintaining the highest ethical standards and principals of practice. The organization's commitment to ethical conduct aligns closely with our Code of Ethics and Standards of Practice, ensuring that members operate with integrity and professionalism in their polygraph examinations.

Membership Benefits & Requirements

Application fee is $150 dollars, includes application fees and membership dues. Membership requires graduation from a polygraph school that is recognized by the National Polygraph Association as being accredited by any state regulatory board. The curriculum of the aforementioned school must meet ASTM standards for education. The NPA offers multiple membership categories including Full Membership, Intern Membership for those recently entering the profession, and Affiliate Membership for individuals who have demonstrated genuine interest in the polygraph field.

Annual Seminar & Continuing Education

The National Polygraph Association is dedicated to providing an Annual Seminar targeted to deliver the highest quality of speakers and presentation topics to its members. The 2025 Annual Seminar was held January 27-29, 2025 at the Flamingo Las Vegas, Nevada. Registration rates were Members $150, Non-Members $350, and Vendors $250. These seminars provide essential continuing education opportunities and networking for polygraph professionals nationwide.

Training Recognition & Accreditation

The NPA is recognized by training institutions and exceeds the standards of the American Society for Testing and Materials. The association requires that member training curricula meet ASTM standards for education, ensuring consistency and quality in polygraph examiner preparation. The NPA strives to improve the capabilities of polygraph examiner membership by promoting education, research, advanced training, and by sharing experiences.

Ethical Standards & Professional Conduct

Members shall not have been convicted of felony crimes, misdemeanor crimes involving sexual or moral misconduct, or violations of civil rights. Members shall not have resigned or been dismissed from any association while under investigation or for illegal or ethical reasons. The association pledges to identify and eliminate any unqualified persons from the profession, maintaining the integrity and reliability of polygraph examinations.

Role in the Broader Profession

The National Polygraph Association serves as an important complement to state and regional polygraph organizations, providing a national forum for professional development and standards. While not affiliated with the leading national polygraph association, the NPA maintains its own identity and contributes to the broader polygraph community through education and ethical standards. For a comprehensive view of polygraph organizations nationwide, visit our Polygraph Associations Directory.