📋 CPS Standard Pathway Eligibility Requirements
Before you apply, please review the CPS Standards, Requirements & Application Guide carefully. It’s your responsibility to ensure all requirements are met and instructions are followed.
A complete CPS application includes the following:
- Online application and fee payment (direct pay or scholarship).
- Proof of formal education and CPS 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 CPS application is submitted online through your FCB account.
- You must:
- Answer all application questions.
- Upload training documentation.
- Pay the required application fee.
📂 Required Forms and Supporting Documents
Applicant-Provided Form and Documentation
- High School Diploma/GED or higher
- CPS Training Verification Form
- Must provide training certificates for each training listed on the Training Verification
Verification Forms and supporting documentation
- CPS Work Experience Verification Form
- Must include a current position description from the employer.
- CPS On-the-Job Supervision Verification Form
- Supervision must not exceed 3 hours per week (156 hours/year).
- CPS 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.
💻 Exam Information
Applicants must achieve a passing score on the IC&RC Prevention Specialist exam.
Applicants are approved to register for the CPP exam only after all application materials are reviewed and accepted by the Board. The Candidate Guide for the IC&RC Prevention Specialist Exam provides details about the multiple-choice Prevention Specialist (PS) exam.
🏅 CBHCM Credential Award Process
- Your CPS credential is awarded once a passing exam score is recorded.
- You will receive an award notification via email, which includes:
- Immediate access to print your wallet card from your FCB account.
- Instructions for verifying your certification online.
- In addition, you will receive the following by U.S. Mail:
- A physical wall certificate.
- A letter of congratulations.
- Information on maintaining your credential.
⚠️ 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 CPS credential is valid for 12 months and always expires on June 30.
- To renew, you must complete 20 continuing education (CE) hours annually.
- CEs must relate to one or more CPS domains: Planning and Evaluation; Prevention Education and Service Delivery; Communication; Community Organization; Public Policy and Environmental Change; or Professional Responsibilities
- The Board sends a renewal notice 60 days before the renewal period opens.
- Late renewal is available with additional fees and CE requirements. Contact us for assistance.