The steps from choosing a credential to getting certified, including what happens after you apply. Approval is not the same as exam registration: there are several emails to watch for.
The steps
Review the requirements
Find your credential on Certifications and check every requirement. Some credentials, such as Certified Peer Specialist and Certified Recovery Specialist, require a mandated training before you can apply.
Complete your application
Apply online (fastest), by fax or scan, or by mail (mail can take up to 2 weeks to arrive). Use a personal email address: PCB contacts you by email, and work addresses can change.
Pay
Payment must be received before PCB starts processing. Paying by credit card online is fastest. If your employer or another party is paying, PCB waits until that payment arrives. An Office of Vocational Rehabilitation request is not payment on its own.
Application review
Once payment is received, PCB reviews your application. For credentials with no exam (Certified Community Health Worker, Certified Perinatal Doula, Certified Family Recovery Specialist, Certified Recovery Specialist Supervisor and Associate Addiction Counselor), you are certified at this point. Otherwise your application goes to the Exam Manager.
The exam
Watch your email for three messages: (1) registration, where you choose online or in person (no reply means no exam is scheduled); (2) your exam link; (3) testing instructions. Read the instructions carefully so your exam is not invalidated.
If you need to retest
Complete the retest form, pay the retest fee listed on the form, and submit it before you retest.
You are not registered automatically
Being approved does not register you for an exam. Wait for the Exam Manager's emails and reply to the registration email.