How to Earn CAECs
Attend online accessibility events such as webinars and conferences.
Participate in professional accessibility courses.
Submit eligible coursework or training for credit.
IAAP Certification
CPACC Exam &Credit Hours Guide
Master the Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) certification and validate your knowledge in accessibility fundamentals.
Overview
What is CPACC?
The Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC) is a globally recognized certification offered by the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP).
It validates a professional's foundational knowledge of accessibility principles, laws, regulations, and best practices across various domains, including digital accessibility, physical accessibility, and inclusive design.
\"Unlike technical accessibility certifications, CPACC focuses on theoretical knowledge rather than implementation, making it ideal for professionals working in diverse accessibility-related roles.\"
- Foundational Knowledge
- Global Standards
- Inclusive Design
- Universal Design
Why Get CPACC Certified?
Earning the CPACC certification offers multiple benefits for your professional career and organizational impact.
Industry Recognition
Demonstrates expertise in accessibility fundamentals and core competencies.
Career Growth
Enhances job opportunities in accessibility, UX design, development, and compliance roles.
Legal & Compliance Knowledge
Helps professionals understand accessibility laws like the ADA, Section 508, WCAG, and EAA.
Competitive Advantage
Differentiates professionals in a growing field with increasing demand for accessibility experts.
Global Applicability
Recognized worldwide, making it valuable for accessibility professionals in various regions.
Who Should Take the CPACC Exam?
The CPACC certification is ideal for professionals across various industries who want to champion inclusivity.
Accessibility Professionals
Those working in web, mobile, software, and physical accessibility.
UX/UI Designers
To integrate inclusive design principles from the start.
Developers & Testers
To build and verify accessible digital products.
Compliance & Legal Experts
To ensure adherence to accessibility laws and policies.
Project Managers
To oversee accessibility implementation in projects.
Educators & Trainers
To teach accessibility principles and best practices.
Preparing for the CPACC Exam
Recommended Study Resources
IAAP Body of Knowledge (BoK)
This is a comprehensive guide covering the CPACC exam domains.
Deque University CPACC Course
Offers a structured course covering all key topics.
A11y-related Courses
Strengthen foundational accessibility knowledge through specialized training.
Laws & Guidelines
Knowledge of WCAG (Web Content Accessibility Guidelines) and international accessibility laws.
CPACC Exam Application Process
To apply for the CPACC exam, you must create an account on the International Association of Accessibility Professionals (IAAP) Dashboard.
Log in to Dashboard
Log in to the IAAP Dashboard.
Start Application
Navigate to the Apply for a Certification section and select CPACC.
Fill Form
Follow on-screen instructions and fill out the application form.
Pay Application Fee
Submit the $25 application fee.
Confirmation
Receive a confirmation email.
Verification & Approval
After verification, IAAP sends an approval email to proceed with the exam fee payment.
Complete Form
Continue with the remaining application form.
Accommodations
Choose language accommodation if needed for extra time.
Proctoring Mode
Select your preferred proctoring mode: Remote or Onsite.
Date & Time
Select exam date and time.
Pay Exam Fee
Pay remaining $145 CPACC exam fee.
Pre-Exam Checklist
Preparing for Exam Day
Make sure you've completed all of these steps before sitting down for your CPACC exam.
- Read all instructions provided by IAAP.
- Install all required software for the exam.
- Ensure a stable internet connection (at least 6 Mbps).
- Use a reliable laptop with full admin rights.
- Do not use company-managed devices or VPN.
- Run the system test before exam day.
- Keep workspace clean and distraction-free.
- Ensure no one else is present during the exam.
- Avoid open windows or glass walls in the room.
All set? You're ready to take on the exam!
Completing this checklist ensures a smooth, interruption-free exam experience.
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CPACC Exam Experience
Here is a complete CPACC exam experience document (opens in a new tab) on the actual CPACC exam experience along with the complete check-in process, exam process, and the questions asked.
After the CPACC Exam
After completing the CPACC exam, wait around 6 weeks for the results. You will receive an email from IAAP about the result status. Once you pass, your CPACC certification will be listed on your IAAP dashboard.
Day 1
Exam Completed
You finish the exam. Results are not instant, the scoring process begins.
Week 1-2
Processing Begins
IAAP reviews and scores your exam. No action needed on your part.
Week 6
Results Email
IAAP sends an email notifying you of your pass or fail status.
After Pass
Certification Listed
Your CPACC certification appears on your IAAP dashboard.
Maintaining CPACC Certification
To maintain CPACC certification, you must earn 45 Continuing Accessibility Education Credits (CAECs) over three years.
How to Submit CAECs
01Log in to your IAAP dashboard.
02Go to My Certifications and CAECs.
03Under CPACC, follow CAEC submission instructions.
04Upload proof of attendance or course certificates.
05Credits are processed biweekly with email notifications for review.
CAEC Examples
30 min
0.5 CAEC
40 min
0.75 CAEC
1 hour
1 CAEC
75 min
1.25 CAEC
80 min
1.5 CAEC
90 min
1.5 CAEC
Important Disclaimer
To maintain CPACC certification, candidates must earn 45 Continuing Accessibility Education Credits (CAECs) over three years. If a candidate successfully completes the required 45 CAECs, they can renew their certification by paying a $75 renewal fee, thereby extending the validity of their certificate for an additional three years.
Failure to complete these credits will result in certification expiration, requiring the candidate to retake the CPACC exam and go through the entire application and testing process again.
Maintaining certification is essential for keeping up with evolving accessibility standards and retaining the professional credibility that comes with CPACC.