Applying for Certification - FAQs

Frequently Asked Questions

Q. Do I have to be a nurse or physician to apply?
A. No, all professionals working in correctional health, including administrative, mental health and support staff, are eligible to participate in the CCHP program.

Q. How much correctional health care experience do I need to be eligible to take the exam?
A. There is no work experience requirement for the CCHP program. 

Q. How long does it take to find out if my application was accepted?
A. Application processing usually takes 3 to 4 weeks. Once your application is processed, you will receive written confirmation with additional information about the examination.

Q. Are different examinations given to doctors, nurses, administrators, etc.?
A. No, the same examination is given to everyone. The examination is correctional practice-based and does not seek to measure clinical competency.

Q. Can I take the exam at home or do I have to travel to a testing site?
A. The exam is not offered as a take-home exam. It is a proctored, written examination offered four times a year at the two major NCCHC conferences and various regional locations across the country. Current test sites and dates are available on the Applying for Certification page.

Q. Is the exam an open-book exam?
A. No. The exam is closed book.

Q. What percentage of correct answers is needed to pass the examination and become certified?
A. You must answer at least 65% of the questions correctly.

Q. How do I obtain the study guide?
A. The study guide will be sent to you once your application has been received. You also will receive information on ordering the recommended study materials.

Q. How long will it take to receive the results of the examination?
A. You will be notified of your test results by mail within 6 to 8 weeks.

Q. Do you publish a list of candidates?
A. A list of candidates who pass the exam (or new CCHPs) is published in CorrectCare. No reference is made to the names of candidates who have deferred taking the exam or have not attained a passing score.

Q. Will you notify my manager that I passed the CCHP examination?
A. Yes. If certified, you will receive a packet of information that includes a request that NCCHC send a letter to your employer recognizing your accomplishment. A press release also is provided for submission to your local newspaper or facility newsletter.

Q. Does everyone pass the examination?
A. We have found that, with adequate preparation and studying, most candidates pass the examination. Those who don't may take it two additional times within a two-year period by paying the appropriate fees. Historically, most examinees who re-test are better prepared and pass the exam on their second try.

If you have additional questions, please contact the CCHP program at
cchp@ncchc.org or 773-880-1460, ext. 277.