Certified Secure Destruction Specialist
CSDS Professional Credentials
The Certified Secure Destruction Specialist® (CSDS®) accreditation is awarded to information governance professionals who have demonstrated a high degree of expertise in data destruction operations, regulatory compliance, information security, and risk management. They achieve this through study and the passing of an intensive exam intended to ensure their in-depth knowledge on these topics, and by keeping up-to-date on these subject matters by earning mandatory Continuous Education Units (CEU). CEU are earned by attending relevant events and webinars, reading articles and blogs, and presenting on related topics.
By working with an accredited CSDS, clients are assured their representative has the complete knowledge of their responsibilities and the resources to create compliant destruction policies, advise them on contractual and indemnification issues, and provide them with the required regulatory employee training. Also, because the maintenance of CSDS credentials requires ongoing education, clients working with a CSDS professional know they are staying abreast of the latest regulatory requirements and industry advancements
Why Work with a Certified Destruction Specialist
Choosing a data destruction provider isn’t just about price—it’s about protecting your organization. Regulations require businesses to perform due diligence when selecting vendors, ensuring they have the proper processes and security protocols in place to safeguard sensitive information.
That means looking beyond cost to credentials, compliance, and proven expertise. i-SIGMA supports this with resources and standards like NAID AAA Certification®, helping you identify providers that meet rigorous industry requirements.
Working with a Certified Secure Destruction Specialist® (CSDS®) adds another layer of confidence. These professionals are trained in regulations and best practices, maintain ongoing education, and bring the expertise needed to help you reduce risk, stay compliant, and make informed decisions for your business.
Become a CSDS
The Information Disposition textbook is the primary study guide for the CSDS Exam. It is the first comprehensive digest covering the wide range of issues related to protecting information at its most vulnerable point – the end of its life cycle. Information Disposition: A Practical Guide to the Secure, Compliant Disposal of Records, Media and IT Assets contains everything one needs to know, including policies and templates, to create a state-of-the-art, compliant and secure information destruction program.
Series of 10 Webinars
Watch the recorded webinar series in which the exam material is fully covered as it relates to the textbook. Cost: $99 (Credited Toward Exam Fee)
The CSDS® exam is offered annually ahead of the association conference, or any time of year by either traveling to i-SIGMA headquarters in Phoenix, AZ or by coordinating with i-SIGMA to have it proctored by a nearby CSDS colleague.
CSDS Exam Fees
- Member Rate w/ webinar credit: $189.00
- Member Rate w/o webinar credit: $288.00
- Non-Member Rate w/ webinar credit: $289.00
- Non-Member Rate w/o webinar credit: $388.00
In order to preserve the designation, a CSDS must achieve 20 CSDS Continuing Education Units (CEU) annually (deadline of June 30). CSDS will be notified when we enter the new annual cycle, all CEU reset to zero, and CSDSs need to begin accrual once again.
CSDS may earn CEU by attending i-SIGMA events, contributing articles for an i-SIGMA publication, participating in a committee, watching webinars, reading industry articles, and more.
Maintain Your CSDS® Accreditation
The CSDS® Accreditation Program ensures professionals stay current, credible, and competitive in a rapidly evolving industry. To maintain your designation, CSDS professionals must earn 20 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) annually, reinforcing ongoing expertise in regulations and best practices.
Earning CEUs is simple through everyday industry engagement—reading i-SIGMA publications, attending webinars and events, or accessing resources in the member portal. Each year, CEUs reset, giving you a fresh opportunity to continue building your knowledge and professional value.
Additional resources, including the CSDS Handbook and training modules, are available to support you every step of the way.
CSDS professionals
CSDS Handbook
CSDS Speakers Bureau Registration Form
Take Your Data Destruction Career Further
CSDS FAQs
The CSDS accreditation is awarded to professionals who demonstrate expertise in data destruction operations, regulatory compliance, information security, and risk management. It involves passing an intensive exam and maintaining knowledge through Continuous Education Units (CEUs).
Working with a CSDS professional ensures that your representative has comprehensive knowledge of secure destruction policies, regulatory compliance, and employee training. They also stay updated on the latest industry advancements and regulatory requirements.
To become a CSDS, you need to study the relevant materials, pass the CSDS exam, and commit to ongoing education through CEUs. Visit the “Become a CSDS” section for more details.
CEUs are earned by attending events, webinars, reading industry articles, and presenting on related topics. They ensure that CSDS professionals stay informed about the latest developments in the field.
You can find a directory of accredited CSDS professionals on the i-SIGMA website under the “Find CSDS Professionals” section.
