Press Credentials

Press credentials (badges and plates) clearly identify you as a CPA-recognized member of the press while you’re doing your work. Whether you’re reporting in the field, covering breaking news, attending public meetings, or engaging with sources, credentials can help establish legitimacy and provide reassurance to officials, law enforcement, and community members.

Credentials are issued for the calendar year and must be renewed annually to maintain their integrity and credibility. Press credentials are only available to press working for current CPA voting member publications or individual members (freelancers). Please note that membership dues must be paid in full before credentials are issued.

How to order

Complete the Press Credential Order Form, including an upload of a headshot as specified below.

You will receive an invoice via email. Once payment is received, your credential will be printed and mailed. Allow 10 days for processing and delivery.

Headshot Requirements 

All card requests (lanyard, wallet or bag tag) must include a photo upload. CPA cannot track down previous photos.

Uploaded must meet the following criteria:

• Cropped to a 3:4 (0.75) aspect ratio
• Min. dimensions: 330 pixels by 440 pixels
• Max. file size: 10 MB
• Recommended  DPI: 200-300
• Saved as first.last.jpg or first.last.png
• JPG/JPEG or PNG only (no PDF).

Photos should:

• Be in color
• Include a clear image of your face
• Be recent (within the past year) or otherwise clearly reflect how you currently look
• Use a plain background, if possible
• Not use filters
• Not appear to be a selfie; it should look professional.

Your credential cannot be processed or shipped without a photo upload that meets the above criteria.