NAVA's Articles of Incorporation specify its purpose:
"To promote vexillology as the scientific study of flags, including, but not limited to, the bringing into closer cooperation any and all persons interested in any and all aspects of flags, such as their history, significance, specification, use, and manufacturing; the furthering of a strong and growing interest in flags as a serious study or an avocation; promotion of research into the origins, history, and symbolism of flags; publications on flags and vexillology; formulation of standards for flag terminology, methodology, and data recording; cooperation with other vexillological associations, agencies, and research centers, and foundations of whatever type; and representation of vexillologists of North America on an international level."
The articles further state that NAVA "shall discharge only those functions which are construed as charitable, scientific, and/or educational under Section 501 (c) (3) of the United States Internal Revenue Code of 1954".
Articles of Incorporation of the North American Vexillological Association