Participant Handbook updated November 2024

Introduction The CSBS Examiner Certification Program (ECP) was established more than thirty years ago and is administered by CSBS staff and the Certification Committee (hereinafter “Committee”) under the auspices of the CSBS Education Foundation Board of Trustees (hereinafter “Board”). This handbook summarizes the key aspects of the ECP and is intended to help participants understand how the program is governed, its policies and procedures, and the steps to earning and maintaining an ECP credential. The handbook is intended to be a useful reference and may not address every potential question or policy detail. It is a supplement to the information found at the ECP website ( https://www.csbs.org/examiner-certification ) and information provided by ECP staff ( certification@csbs.org ). Certification Overview Mission and Vision The CSBS certification program's mission is to be the primary means by which state agency licensing and examiner staff achieve recognition for acquiring knowledge and skills necessary to supervise depository and non-depository entities. The program serves to build inter-agency trust, promotes skills development and career advancement, instills confidence in a state agencies’ consumer protection efforts, and aids licensers and examiners in adapting to an ever-evolving regulatory landscape. Our vision is to create a unified, credible, and respected community of state financial regulators who are recognized for their expertise and commitment to excellence. We strive for a future where certification is synonymous with ambitious standards, skills development, and professional growth and fosters collaboration and trust among state and federal agencies. By continuously updating the program to reflect current regulations and best practices, we aim to build a robust framework that ensures the safety and soundness of financial institutions, benefiting the public and the financial system at large. Committee Responsibilities The Certification Committee is responsible for the decisions for certifying, maintaining certification, recertification, suspending, and withdrawing certification. The decision regarding certification shall be made strictly based on the eligibility criteria and requirements for certification. The decision regarding certification of a candidate shall be made solely by the Committee and CSBS staff based on the information gathered during the application process. The decision on certification shall be executed by CSBS staff on behalf of the Committee. The Committee shall provide a digital certificate, signed by the chairs of the Board and the Committee, and/or a digital badge. The Committee shall maintain sole ownership of the certificate and badge granted.

3 Examiner Certification Program / Participant Handbook