AICP Certification

Joining the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) through the American Planning Association (APA) is a significant milestone that planners often choose during their professional careers. The benefits, costs, and other information about becoming a certified planner are provided by APA.

To become an AICP Certified Planner requires a comprehensive exam and an assessment of your experience and education. To help you prepare for the AICP Exam, APA provides resources on the AICP website. Please contact the Chapter’s Professional Development Officer (PDO) if you wish to discuss or need additional guidance.

AICP Exam Prep

APA offers a wealth of exam prep resources. Review the exam content outline, watch some training videos, explore other chapters' exam prep materials, and much more. Refer to the updated links below for your use:

One Path to AICP - https://planning.org/certification/

Planning to take the AICP exam in 2026?
Join an upcoming AICP Office Hours session to get your AICP questions answered and connect with others preparing for the AICP exam. Office Hours are open to members and non-members, but you must register.

  • Tuesday, February 3, 2026 | 11:00 am - Noon CT

  • Thursday, March 5, 2026 | Noon - 1:00 pm CT

  • Wednesday, May 6, 2026 | 2:00 - 3:00 pm CT

  • Tuesday, June 9, 2026 | 11:00 am - Noon CT

  • Thursday, August 6, 2026 | Noon - 1:00 pm CT

  • Wednesday, September 9, 2026 | 2:00 - 3:00 pm CT

These sessions are open to both members and non-members, but advance registration is required. For upcoming exam dates and fees, please visit the APA website.

Questions? Email aicp@planning.org.

AICP Exam Prep Resource Overview

Join AICP exam prep experts Jordan Yin, AICP, and Andy Cross, AICP, for an engaging discussion on APA's exam preparation resources and strategies for success on the AICP exam. Click the link below to register.

  • Wednesday, March 11, 2026 | 11:00 am - Noon CT

Registration Link | Questions? Email AICP@planning.org.

Guide to Preparing and Taking the American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Exam

Download Guide

Important AICP Updates

Changes are forthcoming to the exam window. Please check back soon.

Each exam cycle, APA offers scholarships to APA members who are interested in taking the AICP exam or who are interested in submitting their experience assessment. Please visit the AICP Certification Diversity Scholarship webpage for more information.

Spring AICP Study Session

More information to come. Please check back soon.