Art Therapy Credentials Board Examination (ATCBE)

Thank you for your interest in becoming a board certified art therapist (ATR-BC). The ATR-BC credential distinguishes those who have met and continue to satisfy standards defined by the profession. Possessing this credential demonstrates your commitment to providing quality services to your clients and indicates a commitment to the art therapy profession. Candidates must be current ATRs and must complete the current ATR-BC application form to apply for board certification through the Art Therapy Credential Board (ATCB).

Please note that licensing boards may also administer the ATCBE for state licensing purposes. Those interested in state licensure are encouraged to contact their state licensure board for specific information regarding this process. Passing the ATCBE to become licensed in a particular state does not automatically qualify you for the ATR-BC credential (board certification with the ATCB).

Computer-Based Testing Opportunities

Computer-based testing opportunities are provided throughout the year. Once approved to take the ATCBE, all candidates must test within their chosen six (6) month testing window. The computer-based examination may be scheduled anytime during testing center business hours, which vary by center. Four hours are allotted for testing, and examinees should report to the testing center 30 minutes prior to the scheduled exam time. Please visit the Art Therapy Credentials Board (ATCB) website for additional information regarding testing dates and registration forms and deadlines.

Registration Information

Prior to scheduling a test date, you must first apply to take the ATCBE through the Art Therapy Credentials Board website. When your application is approved and you are registered for the ATCBE, you will be sent an email confirming your approval to test by the ATCB. You will then be sent a follow up email from Pearson VUE with instructions for scheduling your exam. The second email will include your assigned ATCBE candidate identification number.

Scheduling at a Pearson VUE Center Location

Once you receive your authorization and scheduling approval from Pearson VUE, it is your responsibility to make an appointment to take the exam during the specified testing window. Exam appointments may be scheduled up to one business day in advance. Space at testing locations is limited and available on a first-come, first-served basis.

After you schedule your exam, Pearson VUE will send you a confirmation email listing your exam date, your exam time, the address and phone number of the test center, and directions to the test center.

If you choose to schedule online, you will have to create a Pearson VUE web account. When creating your account and scheduling your exam, you will need your ATCBE candidate ID number.

Policies

Examination Policies and Procedures

Test takers are required to review the ATCBE Official Preparation Guide prior to sitting for the examination, and they must adhere to the policies within it. The preparation guide is located on the ATCB website.


Cancellation and Rescheduling Policy

If you are unable to sit for your scheduled exam, you must cancel with Pearson VUE at least 24 hours prior to your scheduled testing session (SEA recipients must cancel appointments with a Pearson VUE representative by phone). You may reschedule your appointment at the time of your cancellation, or at a later date for a fee of $50. You are only permitted to reschedule for a date that falls within your authorization window. If you do not reschedule your appointment at least 24 hours prior to your scheduled appointment or within your authorization window, you forfeit all examination fees. Exam fees will not be refunded under any circumstance.


Retest Policy

If you fail the exam and would like to retake it, you will have to reapply through the ATCB. The actual retest date will depend on the monthly testing schedule and site availability. You will need to reapply for the exam on the ATCB website.

Additional Information

For more information regarding the ATCB Examination, please visit atcb.org/Examinations or contact the ATCB National Office at atcbinfo@atcb.org or 877.213.2822

Last updated 2021-02-11