The Distinction of the Certified Planner

The American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) offers the preeminent certification process for planning professionals in the United States. Certified planners carry a high mark of distinction because they are required to meet rigorous standards, maintain their expertise through continuing education, and be committed to community interests. For more information about the elements that distinguish the certified planner, please consult the following information:

Click on a link to read about all the aspects of becoming and remaining a certified planner.

• AICP Certification and the AICP Exam

• Candidates for certification must pass the AICP Exam, which covers specific Planning Knowledge Standards

• Certified planners are required to adhere to the AICP Code of Ethics
• The American Institute of Certified Planners is committed to providing quality continuing educational opportunities:
  • Continuing Professional Development Program
  • Planners Training Service
  • Annual APA National Planning Conference
  • AICP Symposia
  • AICP and APA educational products
  • Planners Book Service
  • APA periodical publications
  • Continuing education through APA Chapter Professional Development Officers (PDOs)
• Certified Planners are distinguished by their commitment, through actions and policies, to issues of social equity and social responsibility.

• Community Assistance Program
• Socially Responsible Policies of APA
• Certified planners earn more, on average, than non-certified planners. For more information, consult our recent Salary/Compensation Survey.