IMTA Incident Management Certification

IMTA has set the benchmark for Incident Command position standards since launching its Interstate Incident Management Teams Qualification System in 2012. With a focus on excellence in incident management, IMTA verifies performance expectations for incident management personnel and provides a trusted third-party certification option for jurisdictions seeking independent validation.

About AIMCS

The national standard for incident management is adoption and use of the National Incident Management System (NIMS) and its National Qualification System (NQS). AIMCS uses NIMS and NQS as the baseline minimum standard, then raises the bar through clearer verification and, on the Advanced track, added depth in incident management and leadership training.

Applications will open on January 5, 2026.

Application Instruction Overview

All applications must be submitted as directed to be considered for review. One application packet will need to be submitted for each position that you are applying for Certification or Recognition of Prior Learning.

Choose your application category


AIMCS offers two categories for applicants.

  1. New Position, Trainee
    Choose this category if you are entering a position for the first time. This pathway fits applicants completing a Position Task Book (PTB) with minimal or no prior experience in the position.
  2. Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL)
    Choose this category if you already qualified in the position under another recognized system, such as NWCG, CICCS, or a state or local qualification program. RPL recognizes documented experience while still requiring IMTA verification against AIMCS requirements.


Choose your certification track

Under either category, select one track.

  1. Basic Track
    The Basic track follows the Association’s Interstate Incident Management Teams Qualification System. It aligns with NIMS NQS minimum standards for qualifications and documentation.
  2. Advanced Track
    The Advanced track exceeds NQS minimum standards through additional training expectations in incident management, leadership, and all-hazards coursework. This track targets applicants and jurisdictions seeking a higher, more rigorous benchmark with additional training in incident management, all-hazards, and in leadership.


Start here

Select your category (Trainee or RPL), then select your track (Basic or Advanced), then begin your online application.

  • Download a copy of the Application Checklist and Scorecard.
  • Gather all required documentation to complete your application packet as required on the Application Checklist and Scorecard.
    • Select Basic or Advanced Pathway on the application.
• Basic follows IIMQS Position Qualification Requirements (PQRs)
• Advanced follows the AIMCS Position Qualification Requirements (PQRs)
  • Utilize the Application Checklist and Scorecard to assemble your documents in the order found on the checklist. All documents should follow the exact order as on the scorecard.
  • Fill out the Application Checklist and Scorecard noting the page number and date on certificate as it relates to your packet. If necessary, utilize the Comments Section to provide any additional details relating to the field.
  • Save or scan a copy of your completed Application Checklist and Scorecard, this will be a separate file from your Application Packet.
    • Utilize the following naming convention for your pdf checklist: Checklist, first initial, last name, and position applied for (Example: Checklist-TJones-IC)
  • Scan all pages of your completed application packet into one (1) pdf document; this will be a separate file from your Checklist & Scorecard. (Note the maximum file size is 20MB).
    • Utilize the following naming convention for your pdf packet: application, first initial, last name, and position applied for (Example: Application-TJones-IC)
    Your packet should be in the following order:
1. Cover Letter
2. Position Task Book (if applicable)
3. CV Letter (if applicable)
4. Section 1 | ICS Requirements/Certs
5. Section 2 | Position Specific certs
6. Section 3 | IMTA Standards certs

7. Section 4 | C&G position certs (if applicable)

8. Section 5 | HazMat certs


9. 
Additional documentation specific to initial certification or RPL
• Section 6 - Certification | ICS 225s (up to 3 Incidents)
• Section 7 - RPL | Proof of Work Experience & Qualifications

10. Section 8 | Leadership Training


  • When ready to submit your application packet, complete the online form. You will upload your packet & checklist as 2 separate files.


For more detailed information, refer to the IMTA Incident Management Certification System Guide.

Application Pricing

IMTA Member

Initial Certification | $300

Additional Certifications | $100

Renewal | TBA

Non-Member/Public

Initial Certification | $475

Additional Certifications | $150

Renewal | TBA

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