Below are many of the questions we are asked by potential applicants. Please read them carefully for answers to your questions. If you have additional questions please send us an email at info@producersguild.org
How long does the application process take?
Generally, between 45-90 days, sometimes longer. First, your application is checked to make sure you’ve sent in all the information and items requested. Applications that are incomplete are returned immediately. Then all your materials are passed on to the Membership Committee to verify your credits and job duties. After the Committee makes a determination on your eligibility for membership, their findings are forwarded to the Board of Directors for ratification.
Do I have to supply a sponsor name (or the 3 industry references)?
Yes. Applications without the references will not be considered, and are returned immediately.
I don’t want to lose my $35.00 processing fee. How do I know if I qualify ahead of time?
Carefully read the job definitions and this list. If you feel you have a special circumstance or question, please email us at info@producersguild.org.
I don’t use a resume or bio, how can I still apply?
We assume any serious applicant is an accomplished entertainment industry professional and keeps his/her resume current. A resume or bio must accompany the application form or you will be rejected without consideration. If you submit an application without a resume or bio, the $35.00 processing fee you send is spent for nothing.
I produce commercials and music videos. Do I qualify?
No. Membership is limited to full length nationally broadcasted television shows or shows run on cable; released feature films or direct to home video features released by a national distributor; or established, major new media productions.
I work infommercials. Do I qualify?
No. Also, see answers to FAQ’s Number 3 and Number 5.
My only national credit was a pilot. Do I qualify?
No. Pilots do not qualify for membership.
I work in news and/or sports shows. Do I qualify?
In some cases yes. Also, see answers to FAQ’s Number 3 and Number 5.
I work in local television. Do I qualify?
No. Also, see answers to FAQ’s Number 3 and Number 5.
I do Promos and EPKs. Do I qualify?
No. Also, see answers to FAQ’s Number 3 and Number 5.
I produce shows for PBS. Do I qualify?
In some cases yes. Also, see answers to FAQ’s Number 3 and Number 5.
I don’t see my job title on your list. How can I qualify?
First see the answers to FAQ’s Number 3 and Number 5. We consider applications on a case-by-case basis. When the job tasks performed fall within one of the PGA’s official job descriptions, we may make exceptions.
My credits are from Europe/Asia/Australia, etc. Do I qualify?
Unfortunately at present we only consider domestic credits.
I do Spanish language programs. Do I qualify?
Language is not the determining factor. You qualify based on your actual credits and jobs performed. See answers to FAQ’s Number 3 and Number 5, plus #13.
I have more questions. How can I contact you?
Email your questions to info@producersguild.org. You will receive a reply shortly thereafter.
Why all the requirements to get into the PGA?
Members who join the PGA represent the highest standards in film, television and new media professionals. The PGA is dedicated to containing the proliferation of credits in our industry. We are setting the industry standards for knowledge, professionalism, expertise and quality. We believe that by using our Roster, a show can be professionally and reliably staffed not only with skilled but excellent PGA members. It is our obligation to all our members that new members must not only do all the tasks described in the job description, but do them well.
I produce for the Internet. Do I qualify?
Please refer to our New Media Council’s website www.pganewmedia.org for special eligilibty requirements related to new media.
My company wants to become a corporate sponsor or affiliate, do you have a branch for this?
Sorry, at present no.
Someone from your organization asked me for an aircheck to confirm my credits. What is an air check? Why do you need it?
An aircheck tape is a VHS or Beta SP recorded right off the air as the program is broadcast. It is longer than the full length show, contains all the commercials, station IDs, network or cable IDs, promos, network bugs and credits. Since the PGA constitution and bylaws requires national air credits, this is one way to confirm your credentials. It also lets the membership committee see other names on the credits with which we can cross reference your application. The air check is often requested from applicants who live and work outside of the Los Angeles area.
Why did you return my application form?
Your application was missing vital information, or you forgot to send your resume or one of the checks. Please submit your completed application again.
I applied but was rejected. How can I be reconsidered?
First read the job descriptions and these FAQs to see if you have overlooked one of our criteria. Keep in mind that local television, promos, PSA’s, infommercials, EPKs, music videos and pilots are not covered in the PGA Constitution and By Laws. The PGA evaluates the “body of work” you have accomplished within your selected category. Your number of credits in that category may not be sufficient. The PGA only accepts credits for the tasks actually performed not gratuitous or arbitrary titles. Having a credit in one of our categories does not guarantee admittance. Doing the work implied by the credit is given a higher priority than the title alone. Category peers research your application. Then the membership committee sees your application. Finally your application is seen and voted on by the Board of Directors. Between two and twenty people can read your application form. If you still think you want further reconsideration, contact our office.
Should you have any other questions regarding membership requirements, please call the PGA at (310) 358-9020 or email us at info@producersguild.org