Guidelines and Tips

To obtain or retain your PACE-approved status, you must adhere to the 13 standards outlined in AGD’s PACE Guidelines.

Download and print AGD’s PACE Guidelines to learn about these standards, and use it as a resource during your application or renewal process.

PACE Tips
Feeling a bit overwhelmed? Don’t be. Find tips and tricks below to make your application process easier.

1. Take it step by step
2. Be consistent
3. Include samples
4. Keep a “PACE Samples” file
5. Document clearly
6. Organize your application
7. Use simple binding
8. Save a copy
9. Review the guidelines
10. Contact us

1. Take it step by step.
   Each question on the PACE application addresses a specific standard and criteria in the PACE guidelines . Therefore, before you begin the process, print out both the PACE guidelines and the application. That way, you can stay on track by reading a standard in the guidelines and then completing the corresponding portion of the application. 
2. Be consistent.
   Make sure your answers on the application are consistent with the information you provide.  For example, if you list five individuals with different job titles as having primary day-to-day responsibilities for the CE program, make sure you attach a list of job descriptions/responsibilities for each job title or include each job function in your procedure manual.
3. Include samples.
   Samples are requested so that evaluators have proof that your organization is meeting a specific criterion. You can download sample documents to use as a guide. The actual samples your organization submits should accurately reflect the procedures within your own organization. Additionally, only include the samples requested; providing extra material may only confuse the evaluators.
4. Keep a “PACE Samples” file.
   Save time during the PACE renewal process by keeping copies of your promotional pieces (brochures, advertisements, etc.) and other sample documents in a "PACE Samples" file.
5. Document clearly.
   Indicate the question number on the upper right-hand corner of all pages of each sample so that the evaluators are clear on what question the sample is referring to.
6. Organize your application.
   When organizing your application, place all sample documentation behind the page that requests the material so that it’s collated within the application. Avoid attaching samples at the end of the application.
7. Use simple binding
   Use only large binder clips or rubber bands to bind your application. Other more elaborate binding is unnecessary as AGD staff is required to remove this material before presenting the application to evaluators.
8. Save a copy.
   Always save a copy of the application you submit. You can easily reference it if we have questions or directions on areas that need immediate improvement.  You’ll also have a handy reference when it’s time to re-apply.
9. Review the guidelines.
   Make the renewal process easier by reviewing the guidelinesat least once a year so that they stay fresh in your mind.
10. Contact us.
    Call or e-mail the AGD prior to submitting the application to ensure you have included all of the needed documentation. We can be reached via e-mail at PACE@agd.org or by phone at 888.243.3368, ext. 4335 or 4114, from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. (CST), Monday to Friday.