To be eligible for the Certified Prevention Specialist (CPS) credential—regardless of the application pathway—all applicants must ultimately meet the minimum requirements outlined below. These requirements ensure that every CPS professional is equipped with the knowledge, skills, and experience needed to provide effective, ethical prevention services.
The following information provides an overview of the CPS requirements – detailed information is provided in the CPS Standards, Requirements, and Application Guide and the CPS-Provisional/Upgrade Standards, Requirements, and Application Guide.
Requirements Overview
🎓 Formal Education
- A high school diploma/GED or higher is required.
📚 CPS Training
- Completion of 120 hours of training in CPS-approved topics, designed to build foundational skills in substance abuse prevention.
💼 Work Experience
- Completion of 2000 hours of relevant work experience in a substance abuse prevention related setting.
👥 Supervision
- At least 120 hours of direct supervised work experience, focused on developing your knowledge and skills as a peer specialist.
📝 Letters of Recommendation
- Submission of three letters of recommendation that support your readiness and suitability for CPS certification.
🖥️ Exam Requirement
- Applicants may only register for the exam after application requirements have been reviewed and approved by the Certification Board.
- Pass a 150-item, multiple-choice certification exam. The exam is designed to assess knowledge, skills, and competencies essential to peer support practice.
- The passing score is 500, with all questions weighed equally.
Application Pathways
There are two ways to apply for the Certified Prevention Specialist (CPS) credential—Standard and Provisional/Upgrade. Both lead to full certification, but the right path for you depends on your current experience as a prevention specialist.
💼 Standard Pathway
Choose this path if you have already met all the following:
- Required education
- Completed CPS training
- At least 2,000 hours of relevant work experience
- Required supervision hours
You’re ready to apply directly for the CPS credential. See the CPS Standards, Requirements, and Application Guide for detailed instructions.
🕒 Provisional/Upgrade Pathway
This path is designed for applicants who do not yet have 2,000 hours of work experience. Starting with the provisional certification allows you to work in the field while gaining the required experience and supervision. Once you meet the requirements, you’ll upgrade to full CPS certification.
If you have any additional questions, please contact us for guidance.
Click on the correct application pathway button to access detailed information on application, examination, credential award, and maintenance/renewal requirements, processes, and procedures.