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How to Certify a Service Dog

By: Service Dog Certifications Reviewed by: R. Y. Langham, PhD, MMFT

If you want to be certified for a service dog, just follow these 5 steps:

Identify whether you have an ADA-eligible disability (which can be physical or psychiatric).
Get a health confirmation letter from your doctor or therapist. This step is optional, but a PSD letter can be helpful backup documentation.
Train your dog to perform a task that helps with your condition.
Make sure your dog is comfortable in public spaces; they should be able to pass a public access test.
Certify your dog’s service dog status by getting a certificate stating you’ve met all service dog requirements — but remember, this step is not required.

You can’t qualify for a service dog just by getting a certification. Certifications are used by service dog owners for personal convenience, but they are not required under ADA rules. If someone refuses to let your service dog in because you don’t have a certificate, they are in the wrong. To verify a service dog, they can ask you just two questions: 1. Is the dog a service dog required for a disability? and 2. What work or task has the dog been trained to perform?

ADA Service Dog Certification Requirements

Here’s something that might surprise you: service dogs don’t need any official paperwork to do their important work! The ADA keeps things simple — no special licenses or registrations are required. This is what is stated on the official ADA website:

“Covered entities may not require documentation, such as proof that the animal has been certified, trained, or licensed as a service animal, as a condition for entry.”

What really matters is that your service dog is well-trained and can perform specific tasks to help with your disability. But here’s something to consider — while certification isn’t required, getting your service dog certified voluntarily can make life easier.

Think of it like having a VIP pass at a concert. Sure, you can still get in without it, but having one might make the whole experience smoother. With a certificate stating you’ve qualified as a service dog owner, you’ll sometimes face fewer questions when entering stores or restaurants, and some property managers might be more welcoming when you’re looking for housing. Just remember: whether you choose to get a certificate or not, the law is still on your side, and businesses must respect your right to have your service dog with you.

Service Dog Certifiers

In the U.S., there is no government certification program for service dogs. No organization or company has been sanctioned under ADA rules as an official service dog certifier.

Certification of a service dog is done voluntarily by service dog owners through private organizations like us here at Service Dog Certifications. You can get accessories like vests, tags, ID cards, and certificates from organizations like ours to make your life as a service dog handler in public areas easier.

Service dog in training — A dog must be fully trained and able to perform their tasks before they can be certified as a service dog.

How to Train a Certified Service Dog

If you want your dog to be a certified service dog, you do it through training the dog to help with your disability. A certificate can demonstrate that you completed the training, but you can’t just buy a certificate and call it a day. When training a dog to become a certified service animal, you have three main options: self-training, group classes, or individual training. Each method has its benefits and drawbacks, especially for service animals.

Self-Training

Self-training is the cheapest option and means teaching your service dog on your own. One benefit is that you and your dog can form a greater bond during the experience and also have the flexibility to train when the time suits you. Plus, you’ll gain skills to train your dog in new tasks as your needs change.

For example, if you train your dog to retrieve items, you’ll learn to break down complex tasks into smaller steps. This knowledge can help when you need to teach new services later, like opening doors or providing balance support.

Group Classes

Looking to save money on service dog training? Group classes offer an affordable sweet spot between expensive private lessons and budget-friendly self-training.

One of the biggest perks of group training is the real-world practice your dog gets. Your future service dog will learn to stay focused on you even when other dogs are nearby – a must-have skill for public access work. It can help your dog calmly ignore other animals at the grocery store or stay perfectly still under a restaurant table.

During these classes, you’ll work on essential service dog commands like “leave it,” “stay,” and “under” alongside other handlers. Plus, there’s a hidden benefit: you’ll connect with people who truly understand your journey. Many handlers find lasting friendships and valuable support networks through group classes.

But before you sign up, consider your schedule. Most group classes meet at set times, usually once or twice a week. While this regular schedule helps build a routine, it might clash with work or medical appointments. Some training centers offer evening or weekend options to help with scheduling challenges.

Individual Training

Private service dog training sessions are more expensive than the previous options, making them the premium choice for handler-dog teams. But here’s what that investment really buys you: undivided attention from a certified professional trainer who focuses solely on your unique needs and goals.

Think of it like having a personal coach for you and your dog. Your trainer creates a custom training plan that targets specific tasks tied to your disability. For example, if you have mobility challenges, they’ll teach your dog to:

Brace for stability during transfers
Retrieve dropped items with gentle mouth control
Push accessibility buttons
Help with removing clothing items
Navigate tight spaces safely

One of the biggest advantages? Your trainer’s expert eye. They can spot your dog’s natural talents and transform them into reliable service tasks. Maybe your dog naturally paws at you when anxious – a skilled trainer could shape this into a panic attack response. These personalized insights are incredibly valuable for developing effective assistance dogs.

Flexibility is another key benefit. Private trainers often work around your schedule, energy levels, and medical appointments. This means you can train when you’re at your best rather than push through a pre-set class time when you might not feel well.

A service animal enjoying a small break in the park — Potential service dog owners have 3 options for training their dog: self-training, group classes, and individual training.

Service dogs are there for you!

The path to having a certified service dog might seem overwhelming at first, but remember – you have options that can fit your unique situation. Whether you choose self-training, group classes, or private instruction, the most important thing is ensuring your dog can reliably perform the tasks you need. While an actual certificate isn’t legally required under the ADA, it can make daily life smoother and provide extra confidence in public settings.

Remember that becoming a successful service dog team isn’t about which training method you choose or whether you decide to get certified – it’s about the dedication you put into the process. Take time to evaluate your needs, budget, and schedule before deciding. And most importantly, focus on developing a strong bond with your dog while ensuring they’re properly trained for public access work.

If you’re just starting your service dog journey, consider reaching out to experienced handlers or professional trainers for guidance. They can provide valuable insights based on real-world experience and help you avoid common pitfalls. With proper training and preparation, your service dog can become an invaluable partner in your daily life.

Certify Your Service Dog Here

By: Service Dog Certifications Reviewed by: R. Y. Langham, PhD, MMFT | Service Dog

About the Author: The writing team at Service Dog Certifications is made up of folks who really know their stuff when it comes to disability laws and assistance animals. Many of our writers and editors have service dogs themselves and share insights from their own experiences. All of us have a passion for disability rights and animals.

160 comments

Susan Bunney says: February 12, 2019

Very informative. I am 70 now and suffering from hearing problems an x also panic attacks when i go out. So would love to know more. My dog us 9 months old poiske x with Cavashon very intelligent.

Reply
- Charlotte D Myers says: June 2, 2019
  
  I was stop abruptly in the entryway of the Social security office in St. Cloud Mn. By the Security guard for Social Security office. This msn ran up on me startled both of my service dogs they volted and hit the floor behind me. while this man interrogated, degraded me with his 50 questions ,humiliated me in front of 30 people or more. I hate being disabled noless noless having phyical and mental disabilities from a malfunctioning medical device leaveing me with these 2 small dogs for a someone of an independent life. Then i reported him for harrassment which only escalated the issue and supervisor refuse to give a reference number to the issue or even get back to me letting me know weather the problem had ben resolve or not. She said she didn’t have to do anything about the matter cause they are run by the federal government and the rules and laws do not apply to them.
  I didn’t ask to to be disabled and my heart goes out to anyone who has had to deal with rude, disrespectful and Arrogant renta a cop who has little man syndrome.
  
  Reply
  - Kitty Spann says: July 20, 2019
    
    I was also interrogated at the social security office but he only asked the legal questions is she trained and what is she trained for – it was still off putting that social security is not familiar with the ADA laws
    
    Reply
  - Anna says: November 25, 2019
    
    What he did was illegal regardless. Legally there are only a few specific questions they are allowed to ask you. Mainly ” what service does your dog provide” you are required to answer with a specific task. If you don’t provide that then they can assume the dog is not a service animal. If you answer properly then they can not continue to question and must assume you are legit unless dog starts acting a fool then your dog can be made to be removed.
    
    Reply
  - Vicki says: November 30, 2019
    
    My chihuahua knows when my anxiety gets to high before I actually realize what is wrong. She will love on me until I forget about whatever problem was. Can she be a service dog and how do I go about getting her certified!? Panic attacks in Walmart are not fun!
    
    Reply
    - Abby Cockrell says: December 22, 2019
      
      Please check out the ADA website for more information
      
      Reply
    - Joe says: February 15, 2020
      
      It seems like when you try and find a service dog or say that is what you are looking for that is when the price goes up.. wish insurance would help.
      
      Reply
    - Jackie Miller says: July 3, 2020
      
      I have a question.. My dog is an ESA.. with a vest does that count as being a “service dog”? I am having problems where i live with him being denied access because he has an ESA vest.
      
      Reply
      - Peter says: March 16, 2021
        
        An ESA and a service dog are not the same. They are both assistance animals, they do have different functions and different rights. And to have a legitimate ESA you would need an ESA letter. With the ESA letter, your ESA should have the right to live with you, even in housing with a no-pets policy. You may find this article on the difference between ESA and service dogs interesting: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/is-an-emotional-support-animal-same-as-a-service-dog/
  - Alma says: March 25, 2020
    
    I would like to know if you can point me in the right direction of having my 2 dogs listed as emotional support. They are all that keeps me going when I become upset and everything after my husband passed away and my children are no longer with me I am on a fixed income can I just don’t know what to do I don’t want to have to get rid of my dogs because they are the only thing that’s keeping me motivated and and going they’re my shoulders to cry on my teddy bear is a hug if there’s any way you can help me please let me know
    
    Reply
    - Peter says: June 30, 2020
      
      I’m very sorry to hear about your loss. Under HUD guidelines, multiple ESAs are allowed, as long as the tenant has a recommendation covering each ESA from a licensed healthcare professional. Airlines however will generally only allow you to fly with one ESA. You may find this article on how to qualify for an ESA interesting.
      https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/how-to-qualify-for-an-emotional-support-animal/
      
      Reply
    - Ann says: July 3, 2020
      
      How can I made my dog a serive dog for my problems I have diabetes and seizures and I fall a lot
      
      Reply
      - Peter says: March 16, 2021
        
        First, you would need to identify what kind of tasks your service dog could perform to help you. Then you need to train your dog to perform these tasks. Once the dog can perform the tasks and has completed training for public access, you can certify your service dog. You may find this article on the basics of service dog training interesting: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/service-dog-training-guide-the-basics/
  - Diane says: May 2, 2020
    
    My highly trained service dog would NEVER bolt. She is impervious to people running, shouting or waving their arms about. She ignores other animals, noises or distractions and focuses entirely on her job…to keep me safe. I am sorry that the person’s dogs were startled, but a properly trained dog would never bolt.
    
    Reply
  - Ora Labora says: June 12, 2020
    
    So very sorry u had this experience Perhaps having a copy of the ADA
    FEDERAL laws on hand mite avoid it re occurring in the future.
    
    In addition, having a letter from your doctor confirming ur diagnosis qualifies u for having a service dog accompany you & if there’s other types of accommodations that ADA laws make it illegal for staff not 2 observe. There is a short list of places that R legally allowed 2 refuse use of service dogs. One is military bases. U deserve 2 hav an ADA lawyer follow this up 4 u if u think it’s worth the time & energy.
    Otherwise, chalk it up as a lemon & make lemonade & move fw in ur life w the addition knowledge you’ve gained. Sincere best wishes.
    That
    
    Reply
  - Karen Belles says: June 14, 2020
    
    Is there a website or a book that can help you train your own dog to be a service dog
    
    Reply
  - Goodday2bme says: July 21, 2024
    
    Just curious, did the 2 dogs perform 2 different functions? If not I don’t understand what you would need 2 “ service” dogs wouldn’t 1 that is properly trained be adequate?
    
    Reply
- Heather says: June 2, 2019
  
  Does it cost to get my dog certified
  
  Reply
- Mary Marques-Caramico says: June 4, 2019
  
  It is important the the dog has excellent public manners, is potty trained and under control with a calm temperament as well as in good health. The next aspect is to have the dog task trained to perform a task that mitigates your disability. An example of a task to perform for hearing loss, you could train or have the dog trained to let you know (though some kind of signal…like a nose butt to your thigh, etc.) that someone is at the door or the phone is ringing. There are many more tasks that can be taught. After you have done those things you can have the dog tested with legalk9.com. They also back you up with the necessary qualifying information to any court if needed.
  
  Reply
- Charles Womack says: June 10, 2020
  
  How do I get my dog certified
  
  Reply
  - Peter says: February 12, 2021
    
    You may follow this service dog certification guide to get your service dog certified https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/service-dog-certification-guide/
    
    Reply
Julie says: February 22, 2019

Is there an age limit for the dog? My dog is 6 yrs old now. She already seems to know when I need her for my conditions and she responds to them/me. I want to train her but can’t afford to pay tons of money to do so.

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- GoldenBrownie says: March 2, 2019
  
  There is a thing called owner training, it is where you train your dog yourself and so that way she learns her task and you dont have to pay all that money. Anyone who feels that they need to oay all that money to train there service dog has probably not done research so i feel that you didnt know. Anyways, just search up the task you want to train her with on youtuber and training by professionals videos show up.
  
  Reply
  - Ricki Tollenaar says: May 22, 2019
    
    I wish to register my companion dog, for entry, to everywhere I go
    
    Reply
    - Joshua Sells says: August 23, 2019
      
      A companion or emotional support animal is not recognized by Americans with disabilities organization
      
      Reply
  - Marie says: September 17, 2020
    
    I have my dog that I will be registering as as a service dog soon. I trained her myself. I watched YouTube videos on how to train a dog to pick up on diabetes. She alerts me quicker than my Dexcom does now. Some of the training techniques are a little weird but they worked for my dog.
    
    Reply
- Shalece says: March 3, 2019
  
  No age too old as long as they can still perform every act necessary for your needs. Keep in mind that also means no accidental potty’s inside stores. And is healthy enough to perform all activities. I have a self trained service dog. It took us SIX MONTHS of daily training for him to finally be acceptable for a service dog. It’s also a good idea to get his canine citizen classes. These are relatively cheap and allows him to not make mistakes. They have to be desensitized to the public. Can’t beg for food. Can’t freak out and bark when another dog comes near them, etc etc. it sounds like a lot of work but it really isn’t. Good luck!
  
  Reply
aaliyah says: March 6, 2019

do the dogs have to be big i have a small dog

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- Mary Marques-Caramico says: June 4, 2019
  
  There is no size stated in the federal mandate as long as the dog is task trained to mitigate your disability.
  
  Reply
Tralin says: March 12, 2019

How can i get my dog to be a service dog for my anxiety?

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Anne Squires says: March 15, 2019

How can I buy a physically disabled person who is better get my dog more training to meet my needs?

Is it possible to adopt a service dog to meet my needs quickly. I am in a very urgent situation and require help.

Reply

How to Certify a Service Dog

ADA Service Dog Certification Requirements

Service Dog Certifiers