Accreditation is a system of verification that correctional agencies facilities comply with national standards promulgated by the American Correctional Association.
Accreditation is achieved through a series of reviews, evaluations, audits and hearings.
The accreditation process usually takes up to 18 months. While individual accreditation awards last three years, the accreditation process is designed to be continuous. Facilities are encouraged to seek reaccreditation approximately nine months prior to the expiration of their initial award. The Commission on Accreditation for Corrections is a private, non-profit body that is comprised of corrections professionals from across the country. Its composition ensures that the Commission is completely independent and impartial, while reflecting realistic policy in contemporary corrections.