Credentialing with the Assemblies of God

Becoming a credentialed minister with the Assemblies of God is more than a title. It is a calling affirmed through preparation, accountability, and community. Our credentialing process is designed to help ensure that every minister is equipped for a lifetime of healthy, fruitful ministry.

The process includes a formal application, meeting educational and character requirements, ministerial testing, and an interview with our leadership team. This thorough process allows us to maintain the highest standards of integrity, leadership, and spiritual effectiveness among those who serve in our fellowship.

We believe that credentialing not only validates a minister's calling but also provides the support, covering, and connection needed to thrive in ministry over the long haul.

To get started, select Create Account in the login section above. Please carefully review the items below before beginning your credential application.

Who can get credentialed?

Credentialing with the Assemblies of God is open to individuals who meet specific spiritual, personal, and educational qualifications. According to Assemblies of God national bylaws, applicants should:

  • Demonstrate a personal salvation experience and Spirit-filled life.
  • Provide evidence of a genuine divine call to ministry.
  • Show Christian character, integrity, and godly conduct.
  • Affirm agreement with the Assemblies of God Statement of Fundamental Truths.
  • Be actively involved in meaningful ministry opportunities.
  • Demonstrate willingness to cooperate in fellowship and leadership alignment.
  • Complete required ministerial education and training.
  • Complete required ministerial testing and interview steps.
  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Demonstrate stable marriage and family life aligned with biblical standards.

The process is structured to affirm your calling, support your development, and connect you to a broader community of ministers.

How long does the process take?

If educational requirements are already complete, the process typically takes 3 to 6 months. It usually includes:

  • Submission of formal application and references
  • Transcripts confirming educational completion
  • Ministerial testing
  • Background checks
  • Interview with the Network Credentials Committee
  • Approval by Network and General Council leadership

We recommend beginning early to allow time for preparation and processing.

What are credential levels?

The Assemblies of God offers three levels of ministerial credentials:

  • Certified Minister - For those beginning ministry and demonstrating spiritual maturity.
  • Licensed Minister - For those with growing leadership responsibility and experience.
  • Ordained Minister - The highest level, for proven ministers who meet required qualifications.

Each level reflects calling, preparation, and ongoing commitment to ministry leadership and service.

What are the benefits of being credentialed?

Credentialing with the Assemblies of God provides:

  • Spiritual covering and accountability through trusted leadership.
  • Access to events, training, and leadership development opportunities.
  • Recognition and affirmation of calling and qualification for ministry.
  • Eligibility to officiate weddings, funerals, and ministerial ordinances.
  • Potential clergy-specific tax and legal considerations.
  • Meaningful relationships within Arizona and the broader AG fellowship.
What if I do not meet educational requirements yet?

If you feel called to ministry but still need education, several pathways are available:

  • District School of Ministry (DSOM), like the Arizona School of Ministry
  • Assemblies of God colleges and universities
  • Transfer of previous approved studies
  • Independent study or equivalent pathways where applicable

Our team can help you develop an educational plan for long-term ministry readiness.

Are there any items that may slow or stop the process?

The process is designed to protect long-term ministry health, integrity, and fruitfulness. Certain life circumstances may require additional conversations, accountability, or review. This is not intended to discourage you, but to support freedom, wholeness, and lasting effectiveness in ministry.

Potential areas that may require additional review:

  • Baptism in the Holy Spirit with evidence of speaking in tongues (Acts 2:4; 10:44-46; 19:6). If this has not yet occurred, our team will gladly walk with you in prayer and understanding.
  • Divorce history (personal or spouse). Divorce does not automatically disqualify credentialing, but additional review may be required.
  • Background check concerns. Prior offenses are reviewed carefully with integrity and a redemptive perspective.
  • Recent pornography struggles. Struggles in the last two years may delay processing while healing and accountability are established.
What happens if I let my credentials lapse?

If your credential has lapsed and you are ready to return to active ministry, we would be honored to help you through the reinstatement process.

Typical reinstatement requirements include:

  • Reinstatement Application
  • Background Check Disclosure Form
  • Authorization Release Form
  • Spouse Authorization Release Form (if applicable)
  • $100 reinstatement fee
  • Additional $40 fee if a new background check is required

Additional guidelines:

  • If lapsed more than seven years, a written exam is required.
  • If lapsed/resigned in another district, include a letter of good standing.
  • If reinstating within first quarter of the following year, previous GC dues may apply.

To begin reinstatement, please use the contact form at the bottom of this page to connect with our team.