One Path to AICP Frequently Asked Questions

When can I register for the exam?

Visit the APA website for the certification window dates and to register. When you register, you are expected to take the exam during the current window.

What happens after I register?

After registering, you'll receive an automated email from APA containing your eligibility ID and instructions for scheduling your exam with Prometric. These emails sometimes go to spam or junk folders, so please check those folders and add AICP@planning.org to your email contacts.

My eligibility ID isn't working on the Prometric site. What should I do?

When you visit Prometric to schedule your exam, make sure there are no extra spaces before or after you copy and paste the eligibility ID. Also, use the first four letters of the last name listed on your MyAPA account. If the issue continues, please take a screenshot of the error you are receiving and send it to AICP@planning.org for assistance.

Can I take the exam remotely?

Yes. Prometric offers both in-person and remote testing options. Remote exams are administered through Prometric's Proctor software, ProProctor. Make sure to thoroughly review Prometric's Remote Testing Resources to confirm your system setup and avoid any issues on exam day.

I can't find an available exam location, date, or time. How can I increase the test scheduling options?

After registering for the AICP exam, you should schedule your appointment with Prometric right away — both in-person and remote testing slots fill up quickly. If you're unable to find a suitable appointment, submit a customer service ticket through Prometric. Once you receive your ticket number, forward it to AICP@planning.org, and APA staff will work with Prometric to help you secure an appointment.

Do I need to request accommodations for the exam?

APA provides testing accommodations for ADA disabilities and for English as a Second Language (ESL) considerations. Please review Appendix 3 of the AICP Certification Guide for detailed information and to complete the accommodation request form. All accommodation requests and supporting documentation must be submitted before scheduling your exam with Prometric. Once your request is reviewed and approved, the staff will add the accommodation to your record and notify you when you may schedule your exam.

How can I prepare for the exam?

Explore APA's exam preparation resources to get started. You are also encouraged to connect with your chapter's Professional Development Officer (PDO) for additional study materials and local study opportunities. International members may email AICP@planning.org to be connected with their PDO.

What IDs are accepted on test day? The name on my official ID is different from the name on my registration record. How can I update it?

Your first and last names must match exactly between your official ID and your exam registration record. (Middle names are optional, but if included, must exactly match what appears on your ID.) ID requirements differ for in-person and remote testing, so please review Step 2 in the AICP Certification Guide before registering.

If you need to update your name, contact AICP@planning.org at least three business days before your scheduled exam.

I registered and scheduled my exam, but can no longer take it. What are my options?

By registering, you agree to take the exam during the designated exam window. If you can't make your scheduled time, you must cancel your appointment with Prometric at least three days before your exam and reschedule within the same testing window. Exam registrations not scheduled, or exams scheduled and not taken within the same exam window, will be forfeited, with no refunds issued.

I did not pass the exam. Can I retake it?

Yes. Members who do not pass the exam may retake it as soon as one month after their previous attempt, up to three times within the same exam window. Members who do not take the exam during the scheduled window will forfeit their exam fee. We recommend reviewing your Official Score Report (OSR) to pinpoint areas for improvement, then using the exam content outline and our exam preparation resources to help focus your study efforts.

I passed the exam. How long do I have to submit my assessment?

Your exam scores do not expire as long as you maintain APA membership. There is no time limit between passing the exam and submitting your Experience Assessment.

What education verification documents can I submit?

APA accepts copies of your diploma, official or unofficial transcripts, or a letter from your dean. All documents must include:

• The member's name
• The name of the college or university
• The degree earned
• The degree conferral date

Do I need to provide employment verification letters?

No. All employment information is self-reported, and letters are not required.

I previously submitted essays that were approved. Do I still need to submit an Experience Assessment?

No. If you have approved essays on file from a prior cycle, you do not need to submit an Experience Assessment. To earn AICP certification, you only need to take and pass the exam. After registering, please contact AICP@planning.org so we can note this in your record. Once you pass the exam, reach out to APA for the next steps.

Do you accept international experience?

Yes. APA recognizes international planning experience. Please review the Experience Worksheet to confirm that your experience qualifies as professional planning experience under APA standards. The AICP Certification Guide can also provide more details.

I don't currently work in the planning field. Can I still pursue certification?

Yes. Your current position does not need to be in planning. Any APA member may take the exam. However, by Step 3, you must have completed all required planning experience based on your education. Refer to the chart on the Get Assistance page to determine the amount of experience required.

Do internships count toward my professional planning experience?

Yes. Internships can count toward professional planning experience as long as they were not completed for school credit or as a graduation requirement. For more details, see the AICP Certification Guide.

How can I tell if my experience qualifies as professional planning?

The Experience Worksheet can help you determine whether your experience meets APA's definition of professional planning. The AICP Certification Guide also provides more details.