Examinations:
The ATCB continues to work on strengthening the exam program. Beginning in 2025, a new examination content outline will reflect the results of the most recent job analysis administered in 2022. Completed by over 1,000 credentialed practicing art therapists, the survey obtained data regarding major work behaviors and tasks, client populations, media and materials, diagnostic categories, ethical issues, and practice settings.
Additional information about the ATCBE and the examination process is outlined here.
The Art Therapy Credentials Board Examination (ATCBE) is a national exam taken for Board Certification and, in some cases, needed for state licensure. If you are taking the exam for state licensure in Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, New York, or New Mexico, please visit the state licensure page found here:
Do not sign up to take the ATCBE using the Kentucky, Maryland, New Jersey, New Mexico, or New York application if you are not authorized to take the exam by the state. All exam applications are non-transferable and non-refundable.
ATCB Examination Administration policy allows testing candidates:
- A six-month testing window in which to schedule the exam;
- Testing at an approved center or via remote proctoring; and
- Up to three testing opportunities per calendar year.*
*A 90-day waiting period between exam administrations is required to maintain best practices in exam rigor and integrity.
The application fee is $275. The exam is offered via computer-based testing (CBT) at Prometric testing centers worldwide or via home-based proctoring. Candidates can take the exam up to three times yearly (calendar). Learn more about testing options and requirements.
If planning to take the exam for board certification with the ATCB additional information can be found here.
While ATCB does not provide or endorse study materials, we do offer a preparation guide to assist prospective examinees.
Any current ATR may apply to take the ATCBE for board certification. The application for the ATCBE is found on credential holders’ MYATCB portals.
If approved to take the ATCBE, applicants have a 6-month testing window and must work directly with ATCB’s testing provider, Prometric to schedule the exam* Additional information on this process is sent from the testing provider directly to applicants approved to take the exam. The ATCB does not schedule exams.
Before scheduling an exam, please review the exam scheduling process and requirements for remote proctor examinations here.
Official ATCBE results are available within 12 business days* to allow for score equating and are uploaded to the examinee’s MYATCB accounts. However, an unofficial score report is available within hours of exam completion.
*Office closures due to federal holidays and illness can impact this. We work as quickly as possible to minimize these disruptions.
No examinee may take the ATCBE more than three times per calendar year, whether for board certification or licensure. There is a 90 day waiting period required between exam administrations.
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