Exam Info

Pick the exam that's right for you

PACCC offers three levels of certification. You don’t need to become certified in one level before moving to the next – just pick the level that’s currently right for you: Provider (CPACP), Manager (CPACM), or Operator (CPACO).

  • Provider: A person in charge of the daily handling of the animals cared for by a professional pet care business.
  • Manager: A person in charge of the daily operation of a professional pet care business.
  • Operator: A person responsible for the overall operation of a professional pet care business.
Requirements by professional animal care level
Requirement Professional Animal Care Providers Professional Animal Care Managers Professional Animal Care Operators
Education N/A High School/GED or equivalent High School/GED or equivalent
Professional Animal Care Experience Minimum of 500 hours Minimum of 4,000 hours Minimum of 5 years, with at least 1 year in an Operator position
Other N/A N/A Membership in a pet association or organization; ongoing community service.

How to Register for PACCC Exams

Read the Candidate Handbook

The handbook is the authoritative source for eligibility, the body of knowledge your exam covers, fees, policies, and scoring. Read it before you register.

Download the Handbook

Choose in-person or online

Consider taking the exam in person or virtually. You can now take the exam from anywhere!

If you choose in-person, click the ‘Check Dates and Locations’ button below.

  • Select “Professional Testing Corporation” from the Test Sponsor drop-down menu and then “Professional Animal Care Certification Council” from the Program drop-down
  • VERY IMPORTANT!
    • This search is just for you to be able to see local testing areas and available dates, not to register
    • There are a limited number of seats for each date, so if you have a specific date preference, complete the process as soon as possible once you have received the communication from the Professional Testing Company to schedule your date
Check Dates and Locations

Register and pay

Complete the online registration and provide payment. Note that no supporting documents are required for upload. You will receive an email that your application registration was received. If you have issues with the application process on the PTC website, please contact them via their Support Center or by calling 212-356-0660.

Go to Registration

Schedule your exam

Once your application is approved, you will be emailed a scheduling authorization within 6 weeks of the start of the testing period. At this time, you can choose your exam date, time, and location. Again, there are a limited number of seats for each date, so if you have a specific date preference, complete the process as soon as possible.

Need a Practice Exam?

Online practice exams are available. These can help assess your strengths and weaknesses.

Practice Exams