The Associate Professional in Talent Development (APTD)

Establish yourself in the talent development field.

Special Member Offer During ATD Member Appreciation Sale

Members who complete their application for the APTD this week (sale ends March 25 at 11:59 pm ET) will be given a bonus package of two pdf books to help assess and fill knowledge gaps. Offer is for new applicants.

See Bonus Package

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Apply for the APTD

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. If you are still undecided between the APTD and CPTD, check out this resource comparing the content outlines.

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	December 1, 2022	January 3 - March 31, 2023	February 1 - 28, 2023
Registration Closed	February 1, 2023	March 1 - May 31, 2023	April 1 - 30, 2023
Open Now	April 1, 2023	May 1 - July 31, 2023	June 1 - 30, 2023
Open Now	June 1, 2023	July 1 - September 30, 2023	August 1 - 31, 2023
Open Now	August 1, 2023	September 1 - November 30, 2023	October 1 - 31, 2023
Open Now	October 1, 2023	November 1, 2023 - January 31, 2024	December 1, 2023 - January 2, 2024

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

APTD Certification Handbook

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.

Sign Up

Unleash Your Potential

Increase your confidence and validate your experience when you become an APTD.
Ready to take the next step? Exam windows are available well into 2023. Find the timing that works for you and apply today.

Apply Now