The Associate Professional in Talent Development (APTD)

Establish yourself in the talent development field.

Unleash Your Potential

Increase your confidence and validate your experience when you become an APTD.

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What to Expect from the APTD Exam

What is the Full Exam Format?

Exam time: 2 hours
Exam length: 115 multiple choice questions
Computer-based exam at conveniently located testing centers worldwide OR in a secure location of your choosing, via remote proctoring (learn more about this new testing option)

What is Covered on the Exam?

Download the APTD exam's content outline for a guide to what is covered.

The APTD focuses on a subset of capabilities from the Talent Development Capability Model and how to use that knowledge in talent development. It covers all three domains:

Personal Capabilities - 20%
Professional Capabilities - 50%
Organizational Capabilities - 30%

How Much Does it Cost?

Exam fee: $499 (members); $699 (non-members)
The exam fee covers a testing seat for the APTD exam, exam score report, and APTD certificate once certification is achieved.

How do I Register for the Exam?

To register for the exam go to the ATD certification portal. If it is your first time in the application system, you may need to complete additional fields and indicate that you are interested in the APTD program.
If you require special accommodations, please apply and submit your request at least 10 weeks before your selected testing window so arrangements can be made with the testing center.

When and Where Can I Take the Exam?

When you apply, you will choose a 90-day exam window during which to test.
Each window includes a 30-day black out period when testing is not offered.
The registration deadline is 30 days before the start of each 90-day window.
Exams may be taken at testing centers around the world or in a secure location via remote proctoring.

Upcoming APTD Exam Windows and Deadlines

Registration Opens	Registration Deadline	Exam Window	Black Out Period
Registration Closed	April 1, 2022	May 2 - July 28, 2022	June 1 - 30, 2022
Registration Closed	June 1, 2022	July 1 - September 30, 2022	July 29 - August 31, 2022
Open Now	August 1, 2022	September 1 - November 20, 2022	October 1 - 31, 2022
Open Now	October 1, 2022	November 1, 2022 - January 31, 2023	November 21, 2022 - January 2, 2023
Open Now	December 1, 2022	January 1 - March 31, 2023	February 1 - 28, 2023
Opening Summer 2022	February 1, 2023	March 1 - May 31, 2023	April 1 - 30, 2023
Opening Summer 2022	April 1, 2023	May 1 - July 31, 2023	June 1 - 30, 2023

Click here to find the test center closest to your address.

If you have additional questions about the APTD exam, please email [email protected] or call a Certification Specialist at 703-838-5842

Test How Best Works for You

Applicants for the APTD and CPTD exams are able to schedule a remotely proctored exam or choose to go to an in-person testing facility.

Learn More About Remote Proctor

2022 Associate Professional in Talent Development (APTD) Certification Handbook

2022 APTD Candidate Handbook

International Candidates:

Did you know that the APTD exam is available in Chinese and Arabic? You can choose to test in either language in the Certification Portal after you have successfully applied. Sign up to be notified when additional resources are available in Arabic.

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