2024 Accreditation Standards and Related Policies
2024 Accreditation Standards and Related Policies (PDF)
The complete standards for zoos, aquariums and related facilities applying for AZA accreditation and certification (118 pp.).
2024 Accreditation Standards and Related Policies - translated into Spanish (PDF)
2024 Accreditation Standards and Related Policies- translated into French (PDF)
2024 Accreditation Standards and Related Policies- translated into Arabic (PDF)
The Accreditation Process of AZA and Animal Welfare
An explanation of how welfare is woven throughout the AZA Accreditation Standards and Related Policies.
Accreditation Documents
2024 Guide to Accreditation of Zoological Parks and Aquariums (PDF)
The complete guidelines for zoos and aquariums applying for AZA accreditation and certification (54 pp.).
2024 Guide to Accreditation of Zoological Parks and Aquariums - Translated into Spanish (PDF)
2024 Guide to Accreditation of Zoological Parks and Aquariums- Translated into French (PDF)
2024 Accreditation Questionnaire (Application) (DOC) (33 pp.)
Please note, this Application is for both Institutions and Related Facilities.
2024 Accreditation Visiting Committee Report Form (DOCX) (29 pp.)
Please note, this Report is for both Institutions and Related Facilities.
Handbook on Facility Engagement (PDF) (65 pp.)
Inspector's Handbook
Visiting Committee Members may download the 2024 edition of the Inspector's Handbook (PDF) (70 pp.) or contact the AZA office at 301-562-0777 to receive a hard copy of any accreditation/certification materials.
Accreditation Standards & Process PowerPoint
For more information on the accreditation process, several PowerPoint presentations are available. These presentations cover pointers for institutions going through the process, institutions considering applying for accreditation, and accreditation inspectors. You may obtain copies of the most up-to-date presentations by contacting the AZA office at AZAAccreditation@aza.org.
Accreditation Rack Card for Visitors
Show your visitors what your AZA accreditation means! Download the Accreditation Rack Card (PDF).