The Certified Lease & Finance Professionals' Handbook: Setting the Standards for Leasing & Finance Professionals the World Over

The Certified Lease & Finance Professional (CLFP) Program is presented to the commercial equipment leasing and finance industry as a service of the CLFP Foundation. The CLFP designation is a respected mark of professional competence, signaling to employers, clients, and peers that the holder has demonstrated a strong command of industry knowledge and a commitment to high standards of professionalism. Participation in the CLFP Program is voluntary and open to all qualified individuals.Developed by industry leaders, the CLFP Program addresses the core principles and practical realities of commercial equipment leasing and finance. From its inception, the designation was intended to serve the entire industry as an independent, practitioner-driven credential. That mission continues today.The CLFP Foundation is governed by a volunteer Board of Directors representing a broad cross-section of the industry. In 2026, the Foundation formally affiliated with the Equipment Leasing and Finance Association (ELFA), strengthening operational support and industry alignment while preserving the Foundation’s independent governance and sole authority over certification standards and requirements. The Foundation continues to be supported by the American Association of Commercial Finance Brokers (AACFB) and the National Equipment Finance Association (NEFA).This handbook is designed as a practical, real-world resource for those working in or entering the commercial equipment finance industry. Written by experienced practitioners and subject matter experts, it emphasizes application over theory and reflects the realities professionals face every day. Whether you are a student, an early-career professional, or a seasoned veteran, this handbook serves both as a professional reference and as a cornerstone of the study path toward achieving the CLFP designation.We hope you find this handbook useful and that it remains a valued resource throughout your career. Read more