Board Certification, Membership Status & Reinstatement
Introduction
AAMA Board Certification and AAMA Membership are related — but they are not the same.
Board Certification is the professional credential you earned.
Annual Membership reflects your current standing with AAMA and confirms your active affiliation with the Association.
This page explains the distinction, what occurs if membership lapses, and the requirements for reinstatement.
Board Certification is Lifetime
If you have been awarded AAMA Board Certification, that credential is lifetime and remains part of the Association’s official records as verification that you met AAMA standards at the time of issuance.
Active Membership is Required for “In Good Standing” Status
To be recognized as an Active Member in Good Standing, you must maintain current annual membership.
Active membership confirms continued alignment with:
- The AAMA Code of Ethics
- Current professional and clinical standards
- Ongoing engagement with the Association
Member Benefits Are Reserved for Active Members
Access to AAMA member benefits is limited to individuals with current annual membership. These benefits include:
- Inclusion in the public practitioner directory
- Verification of active and good standing status
- Authorization to use current AAMA seals and professional designations
- Access to professional resources and documentation
If membership lapses, these benefits are suspended until reinstatement is completed.
Extended Periods of Inactive Membership
If membership has been inactive for an extended period — particularly beyond ten (10) consecutive years — AAMA cannot reasonably attest to current clinical competency, continued education, licensure (where applicable), or adherence to updated standards of practice.
In such cases:
- Your Board Certification remains part of the permanent record
- AAMA will not verify active or good standing status until reinstatement requirements are fulfilled
Reinstatement Options (Actions & Requirements)
Reinstatement requirements vary based on the length of time membership has been inactive:
Tier 1 — Lapsed under 3 years
To reinstate:
- Pay current annual membership dues
Requirements: None beyond standard renewal
Result: Restored to Active Member in Good Standing
Tier 2 — Lapsed 3 to 10 years
To reinstate:
- Pay current annual membership dues
- Submit an attestation of continued professional practice
- Provide 12 hours of continuing education (self-reported)
Result: Restored to Active Member in Good Standing
(Additional review may be required if any information is incomplete or requires clarification.)
Tier 3 — Lapsed over 10 years
To reinstate (Professional Revalidation Review):
- Pay current annual membership dues
- Submit updated credentials and professional information
- Provide 24 hours of continuing education completed within the past 24 months
- Complete an Ethics reaffirmation statement
- Undergo Board or Committee review, if required
Result: Eligibility for restoration to Active Member in Good Standing upon approval
Quick FAQ
Is AAMA Board Certification lifetime?
Yes — once awarded, it remains a permanent credential.
Is annual membership still required after certification?
Yes — annual membership is required to maintain active status and access Association benefits.
Can I be listed in the directory without active membership?
No — directory inclusion is restricted to active members in good standing.
Why is revalidation required after extended inactivity?
AAMA must be able to responsibly verify current professional standing when requested by the public, institutions, or regulatory bodies.
Ready to Reinstate?
To begin the reinstatement process or request guidance:
Email: office@joinaama.com
Phone: 1-888-764-2237