NADSP Web Site

DSP-Registered Information

This credential recognizes people who have entered the direct support profession and desire to have careers in the field of community human services for people with disabilities. This is the most basic credential offered.

Required elements:
  1. Proof of passed criminal background check within the past twelve months in the state the DSP is employed;
  2. Letter from employer indicating that the DSP has completed all required training and orientation as prescribed by the state and organization in which the DSP is employed;
  3. Proof of continuous employment with an employer in community human services and self-directs (a person who uses community human services and or a provider organization) for six months;
  4. Letter of intended professional commitment from the DSP which describes the DSP's values, commitment to and purpose of entering the profession; and
    5. Signed commitment to adhere to NADSP's Code of Ethics.
Registered DSP Seal and Certificate Recognized award:
  1. Officially embossed certificate that identifies them personally as a DSP- Registered;
  2. Lapel pin that says "Direct Support Professional - Registered,"
  3. Personalized letter from NADSP congratulating them on committing to the profession of direct support.
Fee: $50

Re-certification: Not required, one time only fee

What happens after I apply?
Your DSP-Registration application packet will be reviewed by NADSP within 2-4 weeks. If it meets the criteria for credentialing you will receive your DSP-Registered recognition package. The recognition package includes: a printed certificate that personally identifies you as DSP-Registered; a lapel pin that reinforces the achievement of the Direct Support Professional-Registered credential; and a personal letter from NADSP congratulating you on receiving your new credential and your commitment to the profession of direct support.

Once you become credentialed at the DSP-Registered level, you will be eligible to move forward to additional levels of credentialing that recognize your skill-based competency in providing direct support to individuals who use community human services.