đź“‹ CAC Standard Pathway Eligibility Requirements
Before you apply, please review the CAC Standards, Requirements & Application Guide carefully. It’s your responsibility to ensure all requirements are met and instructions are followed.
A complete CAC application includes the following:
- Online application and fee payment (direct pay or scholarship).
- Proof of formal education and CAC training.
- Verification forms from employers and supervisors.
- Three letters of recommendation from individuals who know you in a professional or official capacity.
📲 Application Process
- All applicants must have an active FCB account.
- The CAC application is submitted online through your FCB account.
- You must:
- Answer all application questions.
- Upload training documentation.
- Pay the required application fee.
đź“‚ Required Forms and Supporting Documents
Applicant-Provided Form and Documentation
- High School Diploma or GED is required.
- Applicants holding a related Associate of Arts (AA), Bachelor’s or Master’s degree must request an official transcript. Applicants with a degree in a related field have prorated Work Experience and Supervision Hours.
- CAC Training Verification Form
- Must provide training certificates for each training listed on the Training Verification
Verification Forms and supporting documentation
- CAC Work Experience Verification Form
- Must include a current position description from the employer.
- CAC On-the-Job Supervision Verification Form
- Supervision must not exceed 3 hours per week (156 hours/year).
- CAC Recommendation for Certification Form
- Three required
⏳ Timeframes and Deadlines
- Once the application fee is processed, your application is routed for initial review.
- You will receive a status update within 30 days, including any pending requirements.
- The timeline for full review depends on the completeness and quality of submitted documents.
- Applicants have 12 months from the date the application is assigned to meet all requirements, including passing the exam.
- If more time is needed, a continuation fee may be paid to continue the process.
đź’» Exam Information
Applicants must achieve a passing score on the IC&RC Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ICADC) exam.
Applicants are approved to register for the CAC exam only after all application materials are reviewed and accepted by the Board.
The Candidate Guide for the IC&RC Alcohol and Drug Counselor Exam provides details about the multiple-choice Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ADC) exam.
🏅 CAC Credential Award Process
- Your FCB Certified Addiction Counselor (CAC) credential and the IC&RC Alcohol and Drug Counselor (ICADC) credentials are both awarded once a passing exam score is recorded.
- You will receive an award notification via email, which includes:
- Immediate access to print your wallet cards from your FCB account.
- Instructions for verifying your certifications online.
- In addition, you will receive the following by U.S. Mail:
- A physical wall certificate for each credential.
- A letter of congratulations.
- Information on maintaining your credentials.
⚠️ Important: Please ensure that your mailing address is up to date in your FCB account to avoid delays in receiving your materials.
🔄 Renewal and Maintenance
- The CAC and the ICADC credentials are valid for 12 months and always expire on June 30.
- To renew, you must complete 20 continuing education (CE) hours annually.
- CEs must relate to one or more CAC domains:
- Scientific Principles of Substance Use and Co-occurring Disorders
- Evidence Based Screening and Assessment
- Evidence Based Treatment, Counseling and Referral
- Professional, Ethical and Legal Responsibilities
- You don’t have to renew both credentials. But you must keep your CAC active before you can renew your ICADC. If you want, you can let your ICADC expire and just keep the CAC. In Florida, the CAC is the only credential that is officially recognized.
- Late renewal is available with additional fees and CE requirements. Contact us for assistance.