Becoming Certified

Step 1: Professional Development

Complete the required Professional Development Series (PDS) courses for your desired certification type. View the different certifications available to learn more about the various requirements for each certification. Please complete all of your coursework prior to submitting your application.

Step 2: Application

Once all of your coursework is complete, submit an application and references, along with the application/exam fee. Click here for the Application for Professional Certification. The application must be submitted along with documentation supporting educational background and expertise in the selected certification category. Once received in headquarters, the application is reviewed to ensure that all required documentation has been submitted and contains evidence of knowledge, skill, proficiency, and responsibility in the appropriate professional category. Please note, current and active NAPT membership is required to take any certification exam and maintain certification. Learn more about NAPT membership.

Step 3: Exam

Once the application and related materials have been approved, you will need to pass a final examination. All exams can be taken at the annual NAPT Conference, or NAPT will work with you to find an exam proctor in your area. The CSNT exam is available online, and we are working to get additional exams online as well.  *Please note: The certification exam may be taken up to three times if necessary, at no additional charge. If an applicant does not pass the exam after three attempts, there is a waiting period of at least 6 months prior to retesting, and an additional exam fee is required. Applicants may then take up to three additional exam attempts. After 6 attempts, if an applicant cannot successfully complete the exam, they must be reevaluated by NAPT’s Professional Growth Committee and eligibility is determined on a case by case basis.