One Path to AICP

Elevate Your Planning Career with AICP

AICP certification fast-tracks your career, credibility, and community impact.

Certification demonstrates that you bring both expertise and integrity to the communities you serve, while opening doors for professional growth and advancement.

Why AICP Certification?

Make an impact by serving your community with distinction.
Demonstrate your commitment to professional development and ethical practice.
Achieve recognition by meeting national standards and advancing your career.
Earn 33% more than non-certified planners (based on the 2025 Planners' Salary and Benefits Survey).

Who can start?

Members may take the AICP exam while completing their planning experience. Planning experience can be earned after passing the test. To learn more, review the AICP Certification Guide.

2026 AICP Exam Windows

Standard Window (TENTATIVE)

Fee: $305

Registration Dates: April – August 31 (Noon CT)

Test Dates: April – September 30

Results: Delivered from Prometric immediately

Special Pilot Window*

Fee: $100

Registration Dates: October 1 – 30 (Noon CT)

Test Dates: November 2 – 28

Results: Delivered in 4–6 weeks after Prometric review

*This pilot exam is part of APA's ongoing process of keeping the AICP exam current and fair. If you pass, it counts toward certification and you will become an AICP Candidate.

*If you take the pilot exam, you cannot submit your experience assessment until the 2027 submission window opens.

2026 Experience Assessment Window

Fee: $305

Submission Dates: April – November 30 (Noon CT)

NOTE: After passing the AICP exam, you can submit your experience during the current assessment window or any future assessment window, once you have earned all your professional planning experience.