About GACLA
The Global Association of Certification and License Authorization (GACLA) is the premier non-profit professional organization dedicated to the global validation and authorization of certificates and licenses. We specialize in recognizing qualifications issued by certified agencies, institutes, and organizations outside the United States.
Our History
Founded in San Diego, California in 1983, the organization was originally established as the National Authorization Association for the Professionals. To reflect its growing global scope, the name was updated to the Association of International Services in 2011, and finally to its current name in 2013.
Rather than acting as a trade union, GACLA functions as a non-profit, educational, and professional networking organization. Today, we proudly support a global network of 140 chapters and over 22,000 members and affiliates worldwide.
Mission & Purpose
Our Mission: “To deliver premium authorization for industry professionals by conducting rigorous, expert reviews and justifications of their certificates and licenses. We aim to recognize excellence, establish benchmarks, and provide robust educational, networking, and career development opportunities for individuals pursuing excellence in their respective fields.”
Who We Serve
GACLA’s diverse international membership body includes dancers, coaches, and various professional practitioners. While other associations limit their benefits to minor educational discounts and seminars, GACLA actively works to promote you and your professional practice on a global scale.
Professional Training & Certification
GACLA’s training programs serve as the definitive first step toward a successful career. Upon successful course completion, candidates receive an official GACLA certificate.
Member Designations
We offer three progressive tiers of professional designation:
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Trained Intern
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Certified Professional
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Certified Master Specialist
Elite Wedding Planner Training (Since 2007)
Since 2007, GACLA has been a trusted benchmark for training professional wedding planners. Brides and vendors look for verified competency, and certification is the ultimate proof of expertise. While many programs exist, only GACLA provides a comprehensive curriculum, dedicated mentorship, continuing education, and a global fellowship of elite practitioners.
Core Objectives
To fulfill our mission, GACLA focuses on the following strategic pillars:
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Research & Collaboration: Fostering academic research and seamless communication between our members and the broader industry.
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Educational Excellence: Advancing high-quality teaching, training, and instructional standards.
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Diversity & Inclusion: Diversifying the industry and actively representing that diversity on global platforms.
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Career Growth: Expanding both academic and non-academic professional opportunities for our members.
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Supportive Environment: Strengthening the teaching environment and resource accessibility for instructional activities.
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Advocacy: Representing and protecting the professional and intellectual interests of our members.
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Recognition: Celebrating and awarding outstanding work and achievements within the discipline.
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Ethics & Standards: Encouraging the strict application of rigorous ethical and intellectual standards across the profession.