If you are interested in a medical coding career, the CPC exam is likely in your future, since it leads to the field most recognized credential. Here is what the CPC exam is, what it covers, and how it fits a medical coding career. Exam details can change, so verify the current format with AAPC.
What the CPC Exam Is
The CPC exam leads to the Certified Professional Coder credential, offered by the AAPC, the American Academy of Professional Coders. It is the flagship certification for medical coding, the field of translating medical diagnoses, procedures, and services into standardized codes used for billing and records. Passing the CPC exam demonstrates that you have the knowledge and skill to code accurately, which is what employers look for when hiring coders.
What the Exam Covers
The CPC exam tests your proficiency across the main code sets and coding knowledge. This includes CPT codes for procedures and services, ICD-10-CM codes for diagnoses, and HCPCS Level II codes, along with medical terminology, anatomy, modifiers, and coding guidelines applied across body systems and specialties. In short, it verifies that you can correctly assign the codes that drive medical billing and record-keeping, which requires both memorized knowledge and applied judgment.
The Exam Format
The current CPC exam has 100 multiple-choice questions with a four-hour time limit, and you must score at least 70 percent to pass. Notably, it is an open-book exam, meaning you may bring approved CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II code manuals, though no electronic devices are allowed. Being open-book does not make it easy, since you must know how to navigate the manuals quickly and apply the rules correctly under time pressure. Confirm the current format with AAPC before you test.
Preparing and the Apprentice Credential
While there is no strict prerequisite, AAPC recommends completing a coding course, such as its own CPC preparation course, and membership is part of the process. An important detail: when you pass without documented experience, you earn the CPC-A credential, where the A stands for apprentice. You remove the apprentice designation after documenting about two years of coding experience, which can be met through work or programs that count toward it. So passing the exam is the start, and gaining experience completes your full certification.
Why the CPC Matters
The CPC is the most widely recognized entry credential for medical coding and billing careers, and earning it can significantly improve your job prospects and pay. Medical coding is an affordable field to enter, often through a certificate or associate program, and it frequently allows remote work, making it attractive for those wanting a flexible healthcare career without direct patient care. Passing the CPC exam is a key step toward that career. See our guide to loan forgiveness for healthcare workers if you pursue further education.
Is Medical Coding Right for You?
Medical coding suits people who are detail-oriented, analytical, and comfortable with rules and documentation, and who prefer behind-the-scenes work over direct patient care. It offers affordable training, remote-work potential, and steady demand. If that appeals to you, preparing for and passing the CPC exam is the gateway into a stable, flexible healthcare career.
How to Prepare for the CPC Exam
Good preparation makes a real difference. Most successful candidates complete a coding course that covers the code sets and guidelines, then practice extensively with sample exams to build speed and accuracy. Because the exam is open-book, learning to navigate your code manuals quickly, with tabs and notes where allowed, is a key skill. Managing your time across the questions is also important given the limit. With structured study and practice, many people pass, opening the door to a stable medical coding career.
CPC Exam FAQs
Do I need experience to take the CPC exam?
No, but without documented experience you earn the apprentice CPC-A, removed after about two years of coding experience.
Is medical coding done remotely?
Often yes. Coding is computer-based, so many positions allow remote work, especially with experience.
What is the CPC exam?
The exam that earns the Certified Professional Coder credential from AAPC, the leading medical coding certification.
What does it test?
Proficiency in CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II coding, plus terminology, anatomy, and coding guidelines.
Is the CPC exam open-book?
Yes. You may bring approved code manuals, though no electronic devices are allowed.
How many questions is the CPC exam?
Currently 100 multiple-choice questions with a four-hour limit, requiring at least 70 percent to pass.
What is a CPC-A?
The apprentice version of the credential, earned when you pass without documented experience, removed after about two years of experience.
Why get the CPC?
It is the most recognized entry credential for medical coding, improving job prospects and pay in an affordable, often remote field.
