IAAI-CFI

It certifies that a fire investigator meets the job performance requirements of NFPA 1033, per the IAAI's own description. That means the standard's expectations for investigation knowledge, skills, and abilities are your study map. It is not a course completion certificate or a membership benefit.

The CFI is aimed at people whose work is specialized fire investigation. The IAAI describes the FIT as being for those with general fire scene experience but without exclusive fire investigation specialization, such as fire officers, fire marshals, and insurance adjusters. Choose based on whether investigation is your core role.

The source page does not publish question count, time limit, passing score, fee, or retake policy. Treat any figure you see elsewhere as unverified and confirm directly with the IAAI before scheduling. We deliberately do not guess these values here.

Start with the NFPA 1033 job performance requirements and map each one to what you can already demonstrate. Then fill gaps using IAAI training: instructor-led classes, CFITrainer.Net programs, and the Fire Scene Evidence Collection Guide. Finish with the Health and Safety Best Practices and recent Fire & Arson Investigator Journal articles.

No. The IAAI describes them as endorsements attached to a CFI or FIT credential, demonstrating fundamental understanding of motor vehicle fires or marine vessel fires respectively. They are separate additions, so do not assume vehicle or vessel content is central to the core certification.

It can. The IAAI states the CFI is accredited by The Pro Board and the Forensic Specialties Accreditation Board. If your employer, court testimony work, or a public safety agency requires an accredited certification, that status is worth citing and worth verifying with the IAAI for your jurisdiction.

Studying generic fire science instead of the NFPA 1033 job performance requirements. The IAAI ties the certification directly to those requirements, so candidates who cannot connect their knowledge to specific job tasks are exposed. Build your study notes around the requirements, not around chapter order in a textbook.

Yes. The site carries a notice titled "Certifications and Designations Changes Beginning in May 2025," but it does not state what those changes are. Requirements in force today are those currently described on the site. Confirm the details of the change directly with the IAAI before you apply.

The IAAI lists instructor-led classes, CFITrainer.Net online training, the Fire & Arson Investigator Journal, the Fire Scene Evidence Collection Guide, and Fire Investigator Health and Safety Best Practices. These are IAAI-published resources, which makes them a sensible backbone for preparation. This page is independent and not affiliated with the IAAI.