The documents on this page provide official policy and guidance on certification applications, examinations, renewals, continuing education, and related topics. These documents apply to all credentials. Credential-specific requirements and mandatory forms are located on the page for your specific credential.
If you have questions that are not addressed in our published policies, please contact the FCB for further assistance.
Certification Guidelines & Requirements
All applicants and certified professionals are subject to the policies and procedures detailed in these Candidate Guides, unless otherwise specified in the credential-specific Standards and Requirements Tables.
Fees
FCB accepts VISA, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover.
The most efficient and secure way to pay certification-related fees is through your online account.
There is no additional fee for online payment. However, the FCB charges a $5 processing fee for each credit card payment made over the phone.
FCB fees are non-refundable and non-transferable.
Related Policies
Accommodation Requests
FCB provides ADA accommodations for eligible test candidates. This form must be completed by the candidate’s medical professional and submitted to the FCB for consideration before scheduling a test date.
FCB Special Accommodations Policy and Application
Appeal Policy
When an applicant is denied certification or is subject to an action by the FCB, they may inquire about or appeal the results of the application review process and/or the examination. This document includes the application for appeal. Please carefully review this document for the related policy.
Authorization to Release Information
FCB views a certification application and supporting documentation as confidential information. Applicants who want to authorize the FCB to discuss information related to their application may complete and submit an Authorization to Release Information Form. The authorization is limited to the individuals, content, and time frame specified by the applicant and may be revoked by the applicant at any time. Please review this document carefully for related policies and complete the attached form.
Authorization to Release Information Policy and Form
CE Provider Policy
Certified professionals are required to complete a specific number of continuing education credits. As detailed in this policy, the FCB accepts continuing education from a wide range of providers. Please carefully review this document for the related policy.
Criminal History Policy
All applicants, regardless of credentials, are required to pass a Level 2 Background Screening with the state as a condition of certification. If you work for an employer that requires a successful Level 2 Background Screening as a condition of employment, we will verify your eligibility in the statewide database. If you do not have a current eligibility finding in the database, we will initiate the background screening as part of your application process.
All background-specific questions, i.e., statutes and eligibility, must be directed to DCF’s Clearinghouse. FCB does not review or make eligibility determinations regarding background history.
Criminal History Policy
Level 2 Background Screening Request Form
Degree Equivalency Review
Some credentials require applicants to hold a degree in a related field. Applicants who do not have a specified degree but believe their coursework meets equivalent degree standards may request a Degree Equivalency Review to determine eligibility before starting the official certification application process. Please carefully review this document for related policy and complete the attached form.
Related Degree Equivalency Review Policy and Application
Please note: A fee has been assessed for this review. You MUST create an online FCB account so we can accept and process your request and the associated fee payment.
Exam Confidentiality Policy
The Exam Confidentiality Policy is designed to protect the integrity and confidentiality of FCB exam instruments before, during, and after the examination process. Each applicant must complete an Exam Confidentiality Agreement prior to taking an exam.
On-the-Job Supervision Documentation Templates
Eligible on-the-job supervision documentation must include specific information. These sample forms identify the key elements required for documentation. Use the forms below as a guide when documenting on-the-job supervision. There is one version for a single supervisory encounter and one to document ongoing supervision.
- On-the-Job Supervision Document Log – Single Event
- On-the-Job Supervision Document Log – Multiple Events
Reactivation and Reinstatement
The Florida Certification Board (FCB) has a new and expanded policy (June 2023) for credential holders who wish to reactivate credentials in an Inactive status or reinstate credentials that have expired, been suspended, or revoked. Requirements are based on the time interval during which the credential has lapsed.
- Inactive (First Quarter). A credential that has not been renewed and is on Inactive status for three (3) months or less from the end of the current renewal period.
- Inactive. A credential that has not been renewed and is on Inactive status for greater than three (3) months and less than 36 months from the original credential expiration date.
- Expired. A credential that has not been renewed and is on Expired status for greater than three (3) months and less than 36 months from the original credential expiration date.
Please carefully review the policy document and complete the attached application form.
FCB Reactivation and Reinstatement Policy
FCB Certification Reactivation and Reinstatement Application
Retirement
Certified individuals transitioning into retirement may place their credential(s) in retirement status. Retirement status does not permit active use of the credential, but it maintains recognition of competency. Please carefully review this document for the related policy.