The CPC exam from AAPC earns the Certified Professional Coder credential, the most widely recognized certification for outpatient medical coding.
Here’s the format, cost and what to study. Then test yourself with the free CPC practice test on CPT, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS and compliance.
Key takeaways
- 100 multiple-choice questions; 70% passes.
- Open book: you use approved CPT, ICD-10-CM and HCPCS Level II manuals.
- In 2026 the exam costs about $399 for AAPC members or $499 for non-members, including a retake (check AAPC).
- New coders without experience start as CPC-A (apprentice).
USA CPC Exam: Quick Facts
- Credential
- CPC (Certified Professional Coder)
- Organization
- AAPC
- Questions
- 100 multiple-choice
- Passing score
- 70%
- Books allowed
- Approved CPT, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS manuals
- Cost (2026)
- ~$399 member / $499 non-member
CPC Exam Format
The exam has 100 multiple-choice questions covering CPT procedure coding across body systems, E/M, anesthesia, radiology, pathology and medicine, plus ICD-10-CM, HCPCS Level II, coding guidelines, compliance and medical terminology. It’s available online or at test centers; check AAPC for the current time limit and delivery options.
More on CPC Exam Format →Key Coding Rules Tested
- CPT categories: Category I (5 digits), II (ends in F), III (ends in T)
- E/M: office visits are leveled by medical decision making or total time
- Modifiers: 25, 26, TC, 50, 51, 59 and more
- ICD-10-CM: Excludes1 vs. Excludes2, 7th characters, placeholder X, outpatient uncertain diagnoses
- HCPCS Level II: supplies, DME and J-code drugs
- Compliance: NCCI edits, unbundling, upcoding, HIPAA
How to Pass the CPC Exam
- Tab and highlight your code books. Speed of lookup matters.
- Read the guidelines at the start of each CPT section and the ICD-10-CM Official Guidelines.
- Use process of elimination on answer choices instead of coding from scratch.
- Practice timed questions. Try our CPC practice test.
Free practice test
Ready to test yourself?
Choose your test length, practice with instant feedback or take it exam-style, and get your score with an explanation for every answer.
Go to the USA CPC Exam practice test →USA CPC Exam FAQs
Can I use books on the CPC exam?
Yes. You can use AAPC-approved CPT, ICD-10-CM and HCPCS Level II code books. Check AAPC for current rules on notes and annotations.
Full answer →How much does the CPC exam cost?
In 2026, about $399 for AAPC members and $499 for non-members, typically including one retake. Check AAPC for current pricing.
Full answer →What is a CPC-A?
CPC apprentice: the status for new CPCs without enough coding experience. It can be removed with qualifying experience or education.
Full answer →Official sources
Disclaimer: This guide is for general information. Rules, fees and procedures can change. Confirm the current requirements with the official agency listed in the sources. Read our editorial policy.