Associate Protection Professional (APP) Certification
Your Gateway to a Career in Security
The Associate Protection Professional (APP) certification is designed for those who are new to the security field, covering essential concepts and practices. This certification provides a solid foundation for your career, demonstrating your knowledge and commitment to professional excellence in security management. By earning the APP certification, you will gain a comprehensive understanding of key security principles, positioning you for success and growth in the dynamic field of security.
Ready to Launch?
Whether you’ve recently graduated or shifted from another industry, the APP certification is your gateway to a thriving career in security. With just one year of relevant experience, this certification signals to employers that you possess a strong understanding of essential security concepts. Gain confidence in your skills and knowledge, and take the crucial first step towards advancing your career in the security sector.
Watch this video to learn more about each certification and what you need to get started – and check out our step-by-step application guide.
What it takes to earn the APP®
Who it is for
Early-career security professionals with one year of related, paid experience, or six months if you already hold a related, approved certification.
- Full-time employment in a security-related role
- Agreement to the ASIS Certification Code of Conduct
- No conviction that would reflect negatively on the profession
What the exam covers
- Security fundamentals
- Risk management
- Business operations
- Response management
The exam is experience-based: questions test how you apply knowledge, not memorisation. Testing is at a test centre or remotely proctored, if approved.
One of our members already holds the APP®
Our certified members run the chapter's study groups and share how they prepared. Tell us you are preparing and we will connect you with the next study group and a certified mentor.
From decision to certification in five steps
- Self-assessCheck your experience against the eligibility rules and the ASIS self-assessment guide.
- Join ASISMembers get discounted application fees and free eBook standards.
- Study with usJoin a Dubai Chapter study group and use the official reference set.
- Apply and bookApply online with ASIS, then book a test centre or remote exam.
- Stay certifiedEarn 60 CPE hours every three years. Chapter events count.
Common questions
Do I need to be an ASIS member to apply?
No, but members pay a lower application fee and get free eBook versions of the ASIS Standards & Guidelines used in the reference set. See membership.
Can I take the exam from Dubai?
Yes. ASIS offers testing at test centres or by remote proctoring, if approved. Details and fees are in the ASIS Certification Handbook.
How do I keep my APP® active?
Complete 60 continuing professional education (CPE) hours in each three-year cycle, linked to the domains of your exam. See the ASIS recertification page.
How can the chapter help me prepare?
We run study groups led by certified members, share study resources and pair candidates with mentors. Contact us to join the next group.
Eligibility and exam facts summarised from ASIS International, November 2026. The official requirements are on the ASIS website and in the Certification Handbook.