Certifications
Certification FAQ
Quick answers about WZ certificates, the CFI designation, renewal, employer verification, and sharing your credential. For anything not covered here, talk to WZ.
CFI Designation
What is a CFI?
CFI stands for Certified Forensic Interviewer — a credential issued by the International Association of Interviewers (IAI). It certifies that a professional interviewer can conduct ethical, evidence-based interviews across investigative environments.
Who can apply for the CFI?
Candidates need three years of investigative experience, two professional references, and a clean disciplinary record. WZ provides the CFI Preparation Workshop and CFI Evolved online course to help applicants pass the IAI exam.
How long does the CFI take to earn?
Most candidates complete CFI Prep, submit their IAI application, and pass the exam within 6–12 months once they meet the experience requirement. The exam is a single proctored, four-section assessment.
How is the CFI renewed?
CFIs renew every three years through IAI. Renewal requires continuing-education credits — WZ offers CEU webinars, LP Magazine CFI Courses, the Truth Be Told podcast, and advanced live programs to meet the requirement.
Where do I look up a CFI?
CFI designation lookups go through IAI's public member directory. For verification help or to confirm a candidate's WZ class history, contact Emily Kuhn at ekuhn@certifiedinterviewer.com.
Level I Certificates of Attendance
Is the WZ Level I certificate the same as the CFI?
No. The Level I certificate confirms attendance and completion of the WZ Level I program. The CFI is a separate professional designation issued by IAI after passing a proctored exam. Level I is a common starting point on the path to CFI.
How long is the Level I certificate valid?
WZ Level I certificates of attendance do not expire. They represent completion of a specific class, not an ongoing certification.
Can I get a re-issued copy of my certificate?
Yes. WZ keeps attendance records for every class taught since 1985. Email the records team with your name, organization at the time, and approximate class date, and we will re-issue your certificate.
Does the Level I certificate count for CEUs?
Many Level I programs are eligible for CEU credit through HRCI, IAI, and state law-enforcement training agencies. Each program's detail page lists current CEU eligibility.
Employer / HR Verification
I need to verify a candidate's WZ training. How?
Contact Emily Kuhn at ekuhn@certifiedinterviewer.com with the candidate's full name, organization at the time, and approximate class date. We respond with a signed verification letter within 1–2 business days.
Does WZ share contact information for credentialed alumni?
No. WZ verifies training facts; we do not share contact information without the alumnus's consent.
How do I verify a CFI candidate's designation?
CFI designations are verified through the IAI public directory. To route a verification request, contact Emily Kuhn at ekuhn@certifiedinterviewer.com.
Didn't see your question?
The WZ records team is the right place for verification, re-issued certificates, or renewal questions specific to your credential.