There's no official government registry for emotional support dogs — what actually matters is a letter from a licensed mental health professional. Here's exactly how it works, in plain language.
Take the 3-minute screening
A few questions about your symptoms, your living situation, and your dog. Around three minutes.
A professional licensed in your state reviews your answers and speaks with you by video or phone.
If you qualify, your signed letter arrives by email — usually within 24 hours of the consult.
An emotional support dog is a companion animal whose presence eases the symptoms of a diagnosed mental or emotional condition — anxiety, depression, PTSD, panic disorder, and similar. Their job is companionship, not task work.
That's the key difference from a service dog: service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks, while an ESA dog helps simply by being with you.
No. No obedience certification, no vest, no ID card, no registry number. Websites selling "official ESA registration" for dogs are selling novelty items — landlords aren't required to accept any of them.
The only document with legal weight is a signed letter from a licensed mental health professional. Any breed, size, or age of dog can qualify.
Under the Fair Housing Act, housing providers must reasonably accommodate a documented emotional support dog — including in buildings with no-pet policies, and generally without pet rent, pet deposits, or breed and weight limits.
A landlord may verify your letter with the clinician who signed it, which is why every CertifyESA letter includes license details.
Most people finish the screening and consult the same day and have their signed letter by email within 24 hours.
Yes, if your clinician determines that each animal supports your condition. The letter should name each one.
Only in narrow cases — for example if the specific animal poses a direct threat to others or would cause substantial property damage. A blanket no-pet policy is not a valid reason.
Airlines are no longer required to accommodate emotional support animals under federal rules. ESA letters are primarily a housing accommodation.
Typically one year. We'll remind you when it's time to renew with your clinician.