ACAC Examinations

Applicants for each ACAC certification must complete a closed-book, written examination. The examination questions are based on the listed core skills and required body of knowledge.  Click a link on this page for an updated list of exam topics and item references to use in test preparation.

The examination is closed-book! It is strongly recommended that candidates read the listed reference materials before taking the examination. Click a link on this page to find reference texts.  There are 75 to 120 questions on each examination.  Each question is multiple-choice with at least four (4) possible answers. 

ACAC offers three forms of certification exam delivery:

1. Testing Center Exams

Candidates call the Council office at (888) 808-8381 to schedule their exams at one of more than 600 secure testing facilities around the world. Exams are delivered via computers provided by the testing facility in the presence of a proctor. Candidates schedule exams for a time and location of their own choosing.

Candidates should arrive 15 minutes before the testing appointment. Candidates must present two forms of government-issued identification at the testing center, one of which must be picture ID. Candidates must follow proctor instructions with regard to the use of personal belongings and test materials. Candidates failing to abide by these rules will not be permitted to sit for the exam, and a re-examination fee of $100 will be required. 

Click here to search our network of US and International testing centers.

2. Online (Video) Proctored Exams

Candidates call the Council office at (888) 808-8381 to set a video proctoring appointment. Candidates provide their own computer, an approved webcam, and a private location. Candidates download a small software program for identity verification and surrender control of the computer and webcam to the proctors for the duration of the exam. Online proctored exams may be scheduled for any time convenient to the candidate. PLEASE NOTE: a constant internet connection speed of at least 2 Mbps (upload and download) is required for online proctoring. You can check your internet connection at any online speed test website. If your connection is slower than 2 Mbps, please choose another testing option. Online exams are delivered to PCs and laptops only. They cannot be taken on mobile phones or tablets.

Use this “System Check” to make sure your computer is compatible with our testing delivery system.

3. Instructor Proctored Exams (Vocational programs only)

Candidates for vocational certifications whose instructors have arranged to deliver the exam at the conclusion of a preparatory course call the Council office at (888) 808-8381 to register. Exams are proctored by the course provider and delivered via computer at the prep course facility. Candidates must be pre-authorized to register by special arrangement with the course provider.

More Information on ACAC Exams

All administrations of each exam include the same questions; however, the examination questions and distracters are presented to each candidate in random order.

Examinations are graded electronically and scores are available to candidates immediately.  An email is sent to the candidate’s email address confirming test results.

Click here to find a Kryterion testing center near you.

Click here to download our policy on accommodations for exam takers with disabilities.

Retaking a Failed Exam

Candidates who fail an exam may retest at their convenience by calling the ACAC office at (888) 808-8381.
ACAC staff will:

1. Collect the $100 re-examination fee.
2. Schedule the exam at a Kryterion testing center or online proctor convenient to the candidate.
3. Update the candidate's application file upon receipt of the exam score.
4. Continue processing the candidate's application.

As with initial examinations, retake results are forwarded immediately via email to the candidate and to the ACAC office.