About the Lobbying Certificate Program

Founded by the Association of Government Relations Professionals (AGRP) in 2006, the Lobbying Certificate Program (LCP) is today’s gold standard for certifying that government relations professionals possess in-depth knowledge of legislative and political processes plus the rules, regulations and ethics that shape lobbying requirements and are the key to success.

The profession’s only certificate program
Guided by the top government relations and lobbying experts, obtaining your Professional Lobbying Certificate (PLC) will set you apart as a the cream of the crop. That’s because this is the only certificate program that offers mastery of government relations strategies and best practices, the legislative process plus practical know-how for getting results while meeting the highest standards of ethics and professionalism.

Skills for new and seasoned practitioners.
The Lobbying Certificate Program strengthens the skills and effectiveness of government relations personnel in lobbying firms, corporations, and not-for-profit organizations. New-from-the-Hill lobbyists quickly gain expertise it might otherwise take years to acquire, while experienced lobbyists can update their skills in new ethical and regulatory areas as they earn professional certification—and recognition as leaders in the federal lobbying community.

Choose professional certification or topical training
The Lobbying Certificate Program includes 5 core sessions plus a choice of 8 electives. Certification requires completion of the 5 core sessions plus 6 electives. Government relations staff not seeking full certification can attend individual sessions as needed to enhance their skills and update their knowledge in specific areas of lobbying.

Convenient for your schedule.
Sessions may be taken in any order to obtain certification. All sessions are held in Washington, D.C., but are also offered by webinar for individuals working or traveling outside the DC metro area. The Professional Lobbying Certificate (PLC) requires 11 sessions (5 core, 6 electives). All requirements must be completed within two years.

Faculty

Each LCP session features hand-selected speakers who are experts and thought leaders in their industry or area of practice.

Past LCP speakers include:

  • Marty Paone, formerly Executive Vice President Prime Policy and now Deputy Assistant to the President for Legislative Affairs
  • Doug Bellis, Senior Counsel, U.S. House of Representatives
  • Kathy Carothers, Public Affairs Specialist, Federal Election Commission
  • Bob Cusack, Editor in Chief, The Hill

Certificate Program Content

The Lobbying Certificate Program covers all the essential elements of lobbying, from basic background required, networking techniques, regulatory know-how and practical tips for working efficiently, profitably and successfully.

Obtaining Your LCP Designation

To obtain your LCP Designation, you must:

  • Enroll in the LCP Certification Program.  To enroll, send an email to info@agrp.org with your name and contact information.
  • Complete the five (5) required courses and six (6) elective courses within 2 years of your enrollment date.

LCP Series Packages

If you intend to obtain your PLC Designation, we strongly suggest that you consider purchasing the LCP Series Package.  The LCP Series Package allows you to purchase eleven (11) courses at once at the AGRP member rate plus at 15% discount.  This is over a 50% savings off of the non-member, individual course rate.  You can take the classes at anytime during your two-year enrollment time frame.  The package rate for members is $1636.  For non-members, the cost is $1999 and includes a two-year AGRP individual membership.

Once you have signed up for the LCP Series Package, you will be given a code that will allow you to register for the classes you plan to attend during your two-year enrollment period.  You are responsible for registering for the classes you wish to attend.

Registration

To register for an LCP Course, visit the Online Store at the AGRP Member Services Portal.  If you don’t already have an account on the site, you will be asked to create one as part of your shopping process.

Check Your LCP Credits

If you’ve already made progress towards obtaining your LCP designation, you can check your completion status here.  Your login is the email address that you used to sign up for LCP Courses.  If you forgot your password, you can obtain it here.