Three sets of criteria for assessing offender typologies are compared and criteria are selected in order to examine various typologies. Warren's I-Level Typology and Gibbon's Role-Career Typology are reviewed, with an emphasis on their theoretical frame of reference and empirical research attempts to test these typologies. Finally, a comparison of the two typologies is made and the conclusion reached that the ideal classification system should match offender types with available treatment programs. It should identify those most suited for community programs and those in need of 24-hour surveillance. The paper observes that a generally acceptable offender typology has not yet been developed. A table, 17 notes, and about 60 references are included. (Author abstract modified)