CPC (Certified Professional Coder) Requirements & Prerequisites
Everything you need to know before registering for the CPC (Certified Professional Coder), eligibility, cost, format, and what to expect on exam day.
Cost
$399
Provider
AAPC
Validity
Ongoing (36 CEUs/2 years)
Available
USA
Education
Check official exam requirements
Experience
1-3 years of hands-on experience recommended
Specific Requirements
- There is no degree, licence or formal education requirement to sit the CPC exam.
- A current AAPC membership is required. AAPC lists individual annual membership dues at $229 plus tax where applicable, payable every year even in a year when no CEUs are due.
- You must have a current email address and valid postal address on file with AAPC.
- You need a valid, unused electronic exam voucher purchased at $425 for one attempt or $499 for two.
- AAPC recommends completing its CPC training course plus medical terminology and anatomy coursework before sitting, but does not require it.
- Two years of coding experience is recommended. Without it you pass as a CPC-A apprentice and remove the A later through employment verification, Practicode, an 80 hour course, or the Job-Ready Program.
Number of Questions
100 questions, comprising 90 knowledge area questions and 10 coding cases with one question each
Duration
4 hours, administered in one sitting
Question Format
Multiple choice with four answer options, Coding scenarios requiring CPT, ICD-10-CM or HCPCS Level II code selection, Medical record case excerpts coded end to end in the final section
Passing Requirement
70 percent overall, which is at least 70 of the 100 questions correct
How It Is Delivered
Computer based at a testing centre, or online at home with a live remote proctor and an external webcam
Languages Offered
English
Visit the official AAPC certification page
Create an account and select your exam
Choose a test center or online proctoring option
Pay the exam fee and schedule your date
- Two forms of valid ID (one government-issued with photo)
- Appointment confirmation email
- For online proctoring: webcam, microphone, clean desk, stable internet
What are the prerequisites for the CPC (Certified Professional Coder)?
There is no degree, licence or formal education requirement to sit the CPC exam.. A current AAPC membership is required. AAPC lists individual annual membership dues at $229 plus tax where applicable, payable every year even in a year when no CEUs are due.. You must have a current email address and valid postal address on file with AAPC.. You need a valid, unused electronic exam voucher purchased at $425 for one attempt or $499 for two.. AAPC recommends completing its CPC training course plus medical terminology and anatomy coursework before sitting, but does not require it.. Two years of coding experience is recommended. Without it you pass as a CPC-A apprentice and remove the A later through employment verification, Practicode, an 80 hour course, or the Job-Ready Program..
How much does the CPC (Certified Professional Coder) cost?
The CPC (Certified Professional Coder) exam costs $399. This includes the exam fee only, study materials are additional.
How do I register for the CPC (Certified Professional Coder)?
Visit the official AAPC certification page → Create an account and select your exam → Choose a test center or online proctoring option → Pay the exam fee and schedule your date
What should I bring to the CPC (Certified Professional Coder)?
Two forms of valid ID (one government-issued with photo). Appointment confirmation email. For online proctoring: webcam, microphone, clean desk, stable internet.
Ready to prepare for CPC (Certified Professional Coder)?
Get the complete exam guide with study plan, tips, and practice questions.
View CPC (Certified Professional Coder) Guide