Recertification Fee Policy

If renewing by CM points, the recertification fee of $165 is due at the end of the 3-year certification cycle when a CLSO or CMLSO has been approved for renewal. Failure to submit the renewal form, supporting documentation, and recertification fee by the December 31st deadline will result in Inactive Status.

Beginning January 1, 2024, the 'Extension Year' option will be retired, however a 'grace period' will be reintroduced to assist CLSOs and CMLSOs with maintaining their certification moving forward. It is the responsibility of the CLSO to submit CM forms[1] and recertification fees on time. Email notices will be sent out only as a courtesy reminder to recertify. All CM forms must be postmarked by January 31^st after the 3^rd year. Failure to recertify by January 31^st will result in “Inactive Status.” To restore status, CM forms accompanied with the recertification fee and a late fee of $55.00 will be accepted up to and including May 31^st. After that time, it will be necessary to retake the exam to become active again, which includes reapplying, resubmission of reference letters, and payment of the $55.00 application fee, in addition to payment of the exam fee. 

If renewing by exam, the recertification fee of $165 is due before the exam is taken and replaces the exam fee. The retake policy does not apply to taking the exam-in-lieu-of-points. The $55 application fee is waived.