How to register for the CPACC exam — a step-by-step guide

The CPACC exam itself is straightforward. The registration process is not — at least not on the first pass. Here is exactly what to do, in order, so you do not waste time navigating IAAP’s website in circles.

Before you start

You will need:

• A valid government-issued photo ID (passport, national ID card, or driving licence). The name on your ID must exactly match the name you register with.
• A credit card or PayPal account for payment.
• A decision on whether to take the exam online (remote proctoring) or at a test centre.

Step 1 — Create an IAAP account

Go to the IAAP website and create a free account. You do not need to be an IAAP member to sit the exam, but membership gives you a discount on the exam fee.

Fill in your name exactly as it appears on your photo ID. If your ID says “María” with an accent, register as “María” — not “Maria.” Mismatches can cause problems on exam day.

Step 2 — Decide on membership (optional but cheaper)

	Non-member	IAAP member
Exam fee	~$550 USD	~$385 USD
Annual membership	—	~$175 USD

If you plan to sit the exam once, membership saves you roughly $165 minus the membership fee, netting around $10 in savings. The real value of membership is access to IAAP resources, webinars, and the professional network — plus the discount stacks if you plan to sit WAS later.

Prices shown are approximate as of mid-2026. Check the IAAP website for current fees — they adjust periodically.

Step 3 — Submit your exam application

From your IAAP dashboard, navigate to the certification section and select CPACC. You will fill out an application that asks for:

• Your contact and identification details.
• Your preferred exam language (English, and several other languages are available — check current availability).
• Whether you need testing accommodations (more on this below).

Submit the application and pay the exam fee. You will receive a confirmation email with instructions for the next step.

Step 4 — Schedule your exam

After your application is approved (typically within a few business days), you will receive access to the scheduling system. IAAP uses a third-party testing provider — currently Pearson VUE — to deliver the exam.

You will choose:

• Online proctored — you take the exam on your own computer, monitored via webcam. Your room must be private, well-lit, and clear of papers or second screens.
• Test centre — you sit the exam at a Pearson VUE location. Availability depends on your region.

Book your date at least two to three weeks in advance. Popular dates fill up, especially around conference seasons and the end of financial quarters when employers fund certifications.

Step 5 — Prepare your exam environment

For online proctored exams:

• A stable internet connection (wired is safer than Wi-Fi).
• A computer with a working webcam and microphone.
• A clean desk — no notes, books, phones, or second monitors.
• A private room with a closed door. The proctor will ask you to show the room via webcam before starting.
• Close all applications except the exam software.

For test centre exams:

• Arrive 15–30 minutes early with your photo ID.
• You will be provided with scratch paper or a whiteboard. You cannot bring your own.
• Personal items go in a locker — no phones, watches, or bags at the desk.

Testing accommodations

IAAP provides accommodations for candidates with disabilities. Common accommodations include:

• Extended time (typically 50% extra).
• Screen reader compatibility.
• Separate or quieter testing room.
• Additional breaks.

You must request accommodations during the application process, not after scheduling. IAAP requires documentation of your disability. Submit your request early — approval can take one to two weeks.

What happens after the exam

• You will see a preliminary pass/fail result on screen immediately after completing the exam.
• The official result and score report arrive by email within two to four weeks (IAAP reviews results after psychometric scaling).
• If you pass, your digital certificate and CPACC badge become available in your IAAP dashboard.
• If you do not pass, you can retake the exam after a 30-day waiting period. You will need to pay the exam fee again.

Common mistakes to avoid

Registering with a different name than your ID. Even a missing middle name or an accent can cause issues. Copy your name exactly.

Booking too late. If you wait until you feel “ready” and then try to book, you may find the next available date is three weeks out — and lose your study momentum.

Underestimating the online environment. The proctor is strict. A family member opening the door, a notification sound, or a second monitor plugged in (even if turned off) can pause or void your exam.

Skipping the system check. Pearson VUE offers a system test you can run days before the exam. Run it. Discovering a webcam driver issue five minutes before your exam slot is not a good start.

Timeline at a glance

Step	Time needed
Create IAAP account	10 minutes
Join IAAP (optional)	10 minutes
Submit application + pay	15 minutes
Application approval	1–5 business days
Schedule exam	10 minutes (book 2–3 weeks ahead)
Accommodation approval (if needed)	1–2 weeks
Exam day	2.5 hours
Official results	2–4 weeks

Plan backwards from your target exam date. If you want to sit the exam on a specific day, start the registration process at least four weeks earlier — six weeks if you need accommodations.