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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

Michele L. Siemasko says: September 19, 2020

I have a dog I want to be certified for me. I am training her to be my service dog.

Reply
- Andrea Lee Demsey says: November 13, 2020
  
  I have a 41/2lb chiwawa as an emotional support dog and for depression and bipolar. I’m of Social Security Disability for: Axienty Insomina, Depression BiPolar. And as well being treated today’s for these issues by medications to this day. Also medications for COOD, restless leg syndrome and Gerd. I believe all these impairments follow under the guidelines for a service dog. Please inform me where I go from here the dog has been taken for shit seen by a vet has its rabbies tag and is certified and named. There is a file for him at Lieghow Vetinarian Clinc.
  
  Reply
  - Andrea Lee Demsey says: November 13, 2020
    
    I just lost my husband 3 mists ago this little baby doggie gives me comfort and a sense of not being alone. He is very loving and protective. He stays by my side all the time. I need that feeling of feeling needed my son is wonderful but all grown up with a son of his own. Now I must move after 10 years all by myself. They will only take my little baby doggies if he is a service dog if not we’ll I can’t take him anywhere but we’ll I don’t want to say. All I can say is I need him more now then ever. Can you please help me get this little 41/2 lb. emtional support dog for all my traumas become my service dog. Please
    
    Reply
- Caroline says: December 3, 2020
  
  Hey, can I know how you are getting your dog certified as a service dog? I want to get my too but don’t know where or who to contact. Best wishes, Caroline
  
  Reply
Donna Pannebaker says: September 22, 2020

I have a 3 year old German Shepard I would like to have her trained for depression, anxiety. Thanks

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- Peter says: October 14, 2020
  
  Depression and anxiety may qualify for a psychiatric service dog. However, a service dog must be trained to perform tasks relating to a disability. If your Shepherd merely provides comfort for depression and anxiety just through its presence, an emotional support animal may be more appropriate for you. You may find this article on the difference between service dogs and emotional support dogs interesting https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/is-an-emotional-support-animal-same-as-a-service-dog/
  
  Reply
  - Cindy Case says: November 2, 2020
    
    What are the specific types of training that you could teach your dog for depression and anxiety?
    
    Reply
    - Peter says: March 7, 2021
      
      The training depends on what helps you to overcome your anxiety. If you’re unsure, you can talk to your therapist and find what type of assistance your service dog could offer you. You may find this article on everything you need to know about service dogs for anxiety interesting https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/train-a-service-dog-for-anxiety/
      
      Reply
  - Darlene Coldwell says: December 20, 2020
    
    My name is Darlene, for for 3o years I was diagnosed with depression, 2015 I was informed I was misdiagnosed, I have major depression and PTSD and anxiety. I don’t like being out in public, I neglect my health and grooming, (except when I’m at work, I’m a pediatric homecare nurse (I’m opened about myself to the parents and I’ve been with my agency for 12 years), my primary Nurse Practitioner agrees that I should have a support dog, but which one? I don’t need Anya (my husky) for work, work is only place I feel normal (I actually thought I had slit personality but found out that’s normal to feel different at work) can you please help me, I don’t want to “abuse” the system but want to make sure my needs are met.
    Thank you Darlene Coldwell
    
    Reply
    - Peter says: December 21, 2020
      
      Hi Darlene,
      If you feel an animal (a dog, cat, rabbit, or any other pet) can give you enough emotional support at home, you can apply for an Emotional Support Animal. There’s no training involved as the pet simply helps you overcome your dark times with their presence and love. But an ESA only has limited access rights, meaning they are not allowed out in public where other pets are not allowed.
      If you need 24/7 support, you may need a Service Animal (only dogs). Your SA needs to be fully trained, under control at all times, focused, and most of all, needs to fulfill a particular task that you cannot do yourself in times of need (like give you a deep-pressure massage or fetch medicine). The Service Dog can go anywhere you go but also needs to stay in your presence at all times.
      You may discuss more with your primary what assistance animal would fulfill your needs best. And you may find this article on the difference between an Emotional Support Animal and a Psychiatric Service Dog interesting https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/the-difference-between-a-psychiatric-service-dog-and-an-emotional-support-animal/
      Good luck to you and take care.
      
      Reply
Annette says: January 26, 2021

I am traveling to Hawaii in October for my granddaughters wedding and unfortunalty I am not comfortable going without my little helper. With the new laws and Corona Virus, I am very concerned they will attempt to quarantine my dog when I arrive. I have diabetes and PTSD stemming from severe trauma suffered in the military. Although my dog isnt trained by a “professional”, she has a Service Animal Certification and she does alert me when my blood sugar is low and also provide an enormous amount of comfort to me. She is small and current on all immunizations, potty trained and extremely well behaved. What Precautions, Forms, Measures can I take to assure 100% that she will he able to travel to and from my trip. Thank you in advance for Any help and information you can offer me. God Bless You.

Reply
- Peter says: February 2, 2021
  
  Thank you for your service! A service dog does not need professional training to qualify as SD. If your dog is at your service at all times and trained to do the tasks that you need, then you have a legitimate service dog. Please contact the airline you’re planning to fly with for their policies on service dogs. There has been a change in rules recently; thus, it’s best to directly connect with them. You may find this article on how to fly with a service dog interesting https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/flying-with-a-service-dog-guide/
  
  Reply
- Mike Farrell says: February 4, 2021
  
  Hi Annette!,
  
  I live in Maui and we moved from the mainland at the beginning of 2020 with our Mini Australian Sheppard! While he is an emotional support dog, that has nothing to do with the pet Quarantine in Hawaii. Hawaii is the only state that does not have rabies therefore they are very strict with allowing entry for animals. If your trip is in October you’ll have plenty of time to do fulfill all the requirements (it’s a lot of paperwork & vaccination records, microchip, etc.) and it took us about 5 months to get everything in order so I highly suggest you don’t wait. There’s a whole process and waiting period so I cannot stress enough that you get a head start in everything!
  
  Here’s a link of requirements but I also suggest you contact a vet on the island you’re visiting to confirm everything is correct! It’s kind of a pain and the state will not make any exceptions so double check everything!
  
  https://hdoa.hawaii.gov/ai/aqs/aqs-info/
  
  Reply
- Lori says: March 4, 2021
  
  Hawaii is one place where you will find impossible as they are a rabies free island. The quarantine is 6mths. Not even my son “X-military” can get around this. Good luck tho
  
  Reply
Carolina says: March 5, 2021

Hello,
I have been training my Dog to be a Service dog for over one year now and we are finally ready to certify her as a psychiatric service dog.
The problem is I am an American citizen living in France and my dog has a French passport and microchip and a health certificate from a french veterinarian. Can i still certify her as a service dog in USA to fly with me on planes through the united states?
France does not allow Service dogs that have not been bought in special Service dog breeder. My dog is a street rescue dog since a puppy.
Thank you for your answers!

Reply
- SDC says: June 18, 2022
  
  Please see this guide for details on flying with a psychiatric service dog: https://www.servicedogcertifications.org/flying-with-a-service-dog-guide/
  
  Reply

How to Certify a Service Dog

ADA Service Dog Certification Requirements

Service Dog Certifiers