AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
About the CPC Exam
The AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) exam, designated as exam code CPC, is the gold-standard credential for medical coding professionals in the United States. Administered by the AAPC (American Academy of Professional Coders), this certification validates a coder's expertise in assigning accurate CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II codes for medical services and procedures. The CPC exam is designed for individuals who demonstrate mastery of coding guidelines, medical terminology, anatomy, and regulatory compliance, ensuring they can effectively translate clinical documentation into standardized codes for billing and reimbursement.
This exam is essential for coders working in physician offices, outpatient facilities, and healthcare organizations. Real-world use cases include coding for surgical procedures, evaluation and management (E/M) services, diagnostic tests, and preventive care. CPC-certified professionals play a critical role in revenue cycle management, reducing claim denials, and ensuring compliance with payer policies and government regulations like HIPAA. The credential is highly respected by employers, often leading to higher salaries and career advancement opportunities in medical coding and auditing.
To earn the CPC certification, candidates must pass a rigorous, 5-hour, 100-question exam that covers all major coding systems and specialty areas. The AAPC requires candidates to have a solid understanding of coding conventions, modifier usage, and payer-specific rules. The exam also tests knowledge of medical necessity, bundling issues, and coding ethics. With the healthcare industry increasingly relying on accurate coding for value-based care and data analytics, the CPC credential is more relevant than ever, positioning holders as trusted experts in medical coding operations.
Who Should Take the CPC Exam?
The CPC exam is ideal for medical coders, billing specialists, and healthcare professionals who want to validate their coding accuracy and advance their careers. Typical candidates include experienced coders with at least one to two years of coding experience, as well as graduates of accredited medical coding programs. Prerequisites include a high school diploma or equivalent, and while not mandatory, familiarity with CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS coding systems is strongly recommended.
Topics Covered in CPC
Preparation Tips for CPC
Frequently Asked Questions — CPC
What is the passing score for the CPC exam?
The AAPC CPC exam requires a minimum score of 70% to pass. The exam consists of 100 multiple-choice questions, and you have 5 hours and 40 minutes to complete it. Scores are typically available within 7 to 10 business days after the exam.
How many questions are on the CPC exam, and what topics are covered?
There are 100 questions on the CPC exam, covering CPT surgical coding (30-35 questions), E/M services (10-15), anesthesia (5-10), radiology/pathology (10-15), medicine (10-15), ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding (10-15), and HCPCS Level II (5-10). The exam also includes questions on medical terminology, anatomy, and coding compliance.
Can I use coding manuals during the CPC exam?
Yes, the CPC exam is an open-book test. You are allowed to bring your own CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II code books, as long as they are current editions and contain no unauthorized notes or tabs. Electronic references are not permitted.
How many questions are in the ExamsTree CPC study guide?
Why Choose ExamsTree?
ExamsTree CPC Study Guide is developed by experienced certification professionals with deep knowledge of AAPC technologies. Our team thoroughly researches each exam domain to provide comprehensive, accurate coverage.