United States
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You apply to PTCB for CPhT certification, satisfying one of the two eligibility routes.
- Once approved you schedule a Pearson VUE appointment.
- The USD 129 fee covers both.
On this page5 sections
Apply for CPhT certification through your PTCB Account. After PTCB approves the application, use the authorization email to schedule the PTCE at a Pearson VUE test center. Check your identification and the authorization period while choosing a date.
Step one: apply to PTCB
The application is for CPhT certification. State which eligibility route you meet and submit the information PTCB requests for that route.
- Route one: completion of a PTCB-Recognized Education/Training Program, or completion within 60 days of applying
- Route two: at least 500 hours of equivalent work experience, complete at the time of application, with a supervisor attestation
The fee is USD 129 and it covers the Pearson VUE seat as well as the application.
Step two: schedule with Pearson VUE
Once PTCB approves the application you book an appointment at one of more than 1,400 Pearson VUE test centers.
There are no fixed sitting dates. You take whatever open appointment suits you.
PTCB says the standard authorization lasts 90 days. Choose an appointment that gives you enough preparation time within that window. PTCB allows limited extensions requested before authorization expires, with a fee; do not assume you can wait indefinitely after approval.
What to have ready
- Evidence for your eligibility route, in the form PTCB asks for
- For route two, a supervisor willing to complete the attestation - ask early, because this is the step that waits on someone else
- Payment for the USD 129 fee
- Identification matching the name on your application
The name has to match
PTCB requires the name on your ID to match the name in your PTCB Account, subject to specific exceptions for some hyphens, dual surnames, initials and reversed name order. Check the exact examples in its Exam Day guidebook. For a genuine name change or error, submit the required documentation through your account at least ten business days before a scheduled appointment.
Verify the current process
PTCB owns this process and can change it. Read the current instructions on the PTCB site rather than relying on any third-party summary, including this one. Ask early.
Common questions
How do I apply for the PTCB exam?
Apply to PTCB for CPhT certification with evidence for your eligibility route, then schedule a Pearson VUE appointment once approved.
What does the fee cover?
USD 129 covers both the application and the Pearson VUE seat.
Are there fixed exam dates?
No. You book any open Pearson VUE appointment.
What holds applications up?
Usually the supervisor attestation on route two. Ask early.
Does my name need to match my ID?
PTCB requires a match but lists specific exceptions. Compare your original ID with your PTCB Account name and its published examples. Resolve other differences before the appointment.