Medical Coding AAPC CPC Certification Guide

If you’ve recently come across an ad or job posting about becoming a remote medical coder (CPC® – AAPC Certified Professional Coder), you probably have a lot of questions. Before you commit to pursuing the CPC credential, it’s important to understand:

• What medical coding is

• How the CPC exam works

• What kind of training do you need

• What employers really expect

• What salary and career path are realistic for new coders

This guide is designed to walk a brand-new student through the journey step by step.

What is Medical Coding: Definition and Overview 

What Is Medical Coding?

Medical coding is the process of translating a patient’s healthcare encounter into standardized alphanumeric codes. A medical coder reviews the medical record and uses coding manuals or encoder software to assign the most accurate, specific codes that reflect the services provided.

What a Medical Coder Does:

• Reviews medical records, provider notes, operative reports, and test results

• Assigns ICD-10-CM, CPT®, and HCPCS Level II codes

• Ensures codes are accurate, complete, and as specific as possible

• Applies official coding guidelines and payer-specific rules

• Verifies documentation supports medical necessity

• Resolves coding errors and queries providers when information is unclear

• Works with billing teams to support clean claim submission and reduce denials

• Stays current on annual code updates and regulatory changes

What is Medical Coding: Definition and Overview 

ICD-10-CM (International Classification of Diseases, 10th Revision, Clinical Modification)

Used for diagnosis coding, ICD-10-CM explains why the patient was seen and why the procedures or services were medically necessary.

CPT® (Current Procedural Terminology)

Used for procedure coding, CPT® describes what was done to diagnose, treat, or manage the patient’s condition.

HCPCS Level II (Healthcare Common Procedural Coding System)

Used for reporting supplies, products, durable medical equipment, medications, and services not found in CPT®. HCPCS fills in the gaps for items essential to patient care.

Together, these coding systems create the complete picture of the patient’s visit, ensuring accurate reporting and proper reimbursement.

What Is the Process of Medical Coding?

In practice, the coding process typically includes:

1. Reviewing the medical record (provider notes, labs, imaging, procedures).

2. Identifying the diagnoses and services that were documented.

3. Applying coding guidelines and rules to select the most specific, compliant codes.

4. Sequencing the codes correctly so they reflect medical necessity and industry standards.

5. Supporting billing and reimbursement by ensuring the codes accurately describe the encounter.

What is the process of medical coding 

What Is the Difference Between Medical Billing and Medical Coding?

Medical coding and medical billing are closely connected, but they serve very different functions within the healthcare revenue cycle.

Medical coding is the process of reviewing a patient’s medical record and translating the documentation into universally recognized codes. These codes describe the patient’s diagnoses, procedures, services, and supplies.

Medical billing, on the other hand, is the process of using those codes to prepare, submit, and follow up on claims to insurance companies to ensure the provider is reimbursed correctly.

Medical Coders

• Work primarily with clinical documentation and patient data

• Assign accurate ICD-10-CM, CPT®, and HCPCS codes

• Create the most complete and precise representation of the patient’s encounter

• Ensure coding supports medical necessity and meets regulatory requirements

Medical Billers

• Use the codes assigned by the coder to generate claims

• Interact directly with insurance companies and sometimes patients

• Verify coverage, process denials, post payments, and manage patient balances

• Focus on accurate, timely reimbursement

In short, medical coders transform clinical documentation into standardized codes, and medical billers use those codes to communicate with payers and secure payment. Both roles work hand-in-hand to keep the revenue cycle moving efficiently.

Coders Ensure Clinical Accuracy

Medical coders make sure that every diagnosis, procedure, and service is translated precisely from the clinical documentation. Accurate coding:

• Supports proper reimbursement

• Reflects the true complexity of the patient’s care

• Protects providers from compliance risks and potential audits

• Ensures patient records correctly capture health trends and outcomes

Billers Ensure Financial Accuracy

Medical billers take those codes and turn them into clean, complete claims. Effective billing:

• Reduces claim denials

• Prevents delays in payment

• Ensures providers are compensated for their work

• Helps the organization maintain steady cash flow

Why Both Roles Are Essential in Healthcare

Medical coding and medical billing form the foundation of the healthcare revenue cycle. While each role is distinct, the system only works efficiently when both functions operate together with accuracy and consistency.

Together, They Protect the Revenue Cycle

When coders and billers work cohesively:

• Claims are submitted accurately the first time

• Payers understand the services provided

• Providers receive timely, appropriate reimbursement

• Patients gain clarity regarding their insurance benefits and out-of-pocket costs

Both roles are essential—coders create the roadmap, and billers ensure the organization reaches its destination. Strong collaboration between these two functions keeps healthcare organizations financially healthy and compliant.

Understanding the Realities of Becoming a CPC

A common misconception is that earning the CPC credential guarantees an immediate remote position, flexible hours, and a high starting wage. While these opportunities do exist, they are not typically offered to brand-new coders without hands-on experience.

Many new coders feel discouraged when they learn that the path to a remote, well-paid coding job often involves building experience first.

It is possible to get hired with little to no experience—many coders do—but these roles are usually entry-level and more competitive. Employers naturally prefer candidates with a proven background in coding or healthcare. However, when they can’t find an ideal candidate, many are willing to invest in a motivated new coder whose skills show strong potential.

Remote Work & Dependent Care Expectations

Another common question is whether you can work remotely while caring for children or dependents. Most employers strictly prohibit this and require employees to sign a waiver confirming that no dependent care will take place during working hours.

Medical coding demands:

• Accuracy

• Focus

• Daily productivity standards

• Strict adherence to HIPAA and privacy rules

Even when you work from home, HIPAA regulations still fully apply, and maintaining patient privacy must be your top priority.

dependent care while working from home

Experience Still Matters—Even After Certification

Transitioning into any new career comes with the same challenge: lack of experience. Passing the CPC exam proves you understand coding concepts, but employers also need to see:

• Results of your projects

• Collaborative Contributions to the team
• Relevant recent experience
• What you can do to increase revenue or work environment morale

• Detail-oriented, for example, a one-word difference between codes

• Tools used to create what results

• Ready for real-world chart review

You’ll still need a strong résumé, transferable skills, and interview readiness to get your foot in the door.

Many new coders already possess valuable skills from previous roles—such as customer service, administrative work, billing, auditing, or insurance verification—that can easily translate into success in a coding career. A professionally crafted résumé can help highlight these strengths and make you stand out.

Entry-Level Opportunities & Career Growth

Many newly credentialed coders begin in positions that are related to coding, even if not strictly coding roles. Working at a hospital, clinic, or billing office can be an excellent way to get your foot in the door.

• Internal candidates often receive priority consideration for openings.

• Networking with coding staff and managers can help you position yourself for future coding roles.

Building relationships, expressing your interest in coding opportunities, and demonstrating a strong work ethic can open important doors.

With realistic expectations—especially regarding starting wages, job titles, and location (remote vs. on-site)—you will improve your chances of securing your first role and eventually moving into your dream remote coding position.

In many cases, expanding your job search to include in-person positions can significantly increase your opportunities and help you gain essential experience more quickly.

How To Get Hired As A CPC-A 

Medical Coding and AI: Why Coding Is Still a Great Career Choice

With all the talk about artificial intelligence (AI) in healthcare, many future coders wonder if medical coding will still be needed. The short answer is yes—AI is changing the way coders work, but it is not replacing skilled human coders. Instead, it is becoming a powerful tool that supports them.

AI-assisted tools can help with:

• Suggesting possible codes based on documentation

• Flagging missing information

• Speeding up routine, repetitive tasks

However, AI cannot replace a coder’s:

• Judgment and understanding of guidelines

• Ability to interpret unclear or incomplete documentation

• Knowledge of payer-specific rules and policies

• Ethical and compliance responsibility

Healthcare organizations still need certified coders to:

• Verify and validate AI-suggested codes

• Ensure accuracy, compliance, and medical necessity

• Handle complex cases, gray areas, and appeals

• Audit records and protect providers from risk

As AI becomes more common, coders with strong skills—and especially those comfortable working with technology—will be even more valuable. Medical coding remains a strong, future-facing career choice, with opportunities to grow into roles like auditor, educator, CDI specialist, risk adjustment coder, and more

Will AI Take Over Medical Coding 

Why AI Is Not Ready to Take Over All Medical Coding Jobs 

How to Become a Medical Coder

The most successful path for aspiring medical coders is to complete a reputable instructor-led coding program and then pass a nationally recognized certification exam. Earning a credential—such as the AAPC CPC®—shows employers that you have the foundational knowledge and skills needed to begin your coding career.

Build a Strong Foundation First

Before enrolling in a coding program, students should complete courses in medical terminology and anatomy & physiology. These prerequisites are essential because they help you:

• Understand clinical language used in medical records

• Identify key terms and concepts tied to diagnoses and procedures

• Accurately extract the information needed to code correctly

This foundational knowledge directly impacts your accuracy, speed, and confidence as a coder.

Medical Coding Do you need to know about Physiology, Anatomy and Medical Terminology 

Master the Coding Manuals

To pass certification exams—and to code correctly in the real world—you must be comfortable using all three coding systems: ICD-10-CM, CPT®, and HCPCS Level II. Each manual includes detailed guidelines, rules, conventions, and coding instructions that must be followed for accurate, compliant coding.

Attention to detail is critical. Even small differences in documentation can change the code selection, affect reimbursement, and impact compliance. Strong coders understand not only what code to assign, but why they are assigning it based on guidelines.

Why Take a Medical Coding Course With a Certified Instructor?

Preparing for the CPC® exam is not just about studying the material—it’s also about having the right guidance from someone who truly understands the exam, the industry, and how coders learn best. A certified instructor can make all the difference in your confidence, comprehension, and success on exam day.

Clear Guidance Through Complex Concepts

Medical coding includes detailed guidelines, gray areas, and nuances that can be confusing when studying alone. A certified instructor can:

• Break down complicated topics into easy-to-understand explanations

• Provide real-world examples to reinforce learning

• Clarify difficult concepts that often appear on the CPC exam

This support helps you avoid misunderstandings that could cost you points on the exam—or lead to coding errors in the workplace.

Why Get A CPC Exam Instructor

Coding Clarified Instructor Janine Mothershed  

Structured Learning That Covers Everything You Need

A well-designed medical coding course ensures you:

• Learn all essential concepts in the correct order

• Understand how to apply the guidelines, not just memorize them

• Get exposure to the types of questions and scenarios seen on the CPC® exam

Without structured instruction, it’s easy to overlook important rules or miss concepts that are heavily tested.

Confidence and Readiness for Exam Day

Having a certified instructor by your side means you’re not preparing alone. You gain:

• Expert guidance

• Accountability

• Supportive feedback

• Increased confidence in your skills

All of this contributes to feeling fully prepared—and ready to pass the CPC® exam the first time.

How Long Does It Take to Prepare for the AAPC CPC Exam?

The amount of time needed to prepare for the CPC® exam varies from student to student, depending on your schedule, learning pace, and level of commitment. A structured medical coding course is one of the most important steps in preparing effectively and building the knowledge required for certification.

Typical Course Completion Time

Most students complete an 80-hour medical coding course in about 4–6 months, though some finish sooner or take longer depending on how much time they can dedicate each week.

Many learners aim to complete one chapter or module per week, which keeps them on track without feeling overwhelmed. Consistency is key—regular study habits help reinforce the material and improve long-term retention.

Time Needed for Exam Preparation

After finishing their coursework, students typically spend an additional 2 weeks to 1 month reviewing and preparing for the CPC exam. This time is often focused on:

• Reinforcing CPT®, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS rules

• Practicing timed mock exams

• Strengthening guideline knowledge

• Reviewing areas where they feel less confident

By combining a structured coding course with dedicated study time, most students feel well-prepared and confident heading into their CPC certification exam.

How Long Does It Take to Learn Medical Coding 

Which Medical Coding Certification Should a New Coder Choose?

Choosing the right medical coding certification is one of the most important decisions in your coding career journey. Your first credential sets the foundation for your job opportunities, marketability, and long-term career growth. The two major credentialing organizations—AAPC and AHIMA—each offer a core credential that employers widely recognize for entry-level coding positions.

AAPC CPC – The Most Popular First Credential

The AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) is the most common first credential for new coders, especially for those who want to work in:

• Physician offices

• Outpatient clinics

• Ambulatory surgical centers

• Specialty practices

AAPC also offers more focused pathways later—such as COC® for outpatient hospitals, CIC® for inpatient coding, and CRC® for risk adjustment—making the CPC® a strong starting point for career growth.

Which Medical Coding Credential Is Best For A New Coder AAPC

AHIMA CCS – A Strong Option for Hospital Coding

AHIMA’s Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) is widely respected, particularly in hospital and acute-care settings. CCS coders are trained to classify and sequence medical data across multiple care environments, including inpatient and outpatient facilities. Many employers view the CCS as a highly competitive credential due to its rigorous exam structure.

Why Employers Prefer CPC or CCS Over CCA

AHIMA also offers the CCA (Certified Coding Associate), but it is often viewed by employers as similar to the AAPC CPC-A (apprentice) credential, without a pathway to remove the apprentice status. The CCA only requires a high school diploma to sit for the exam, and coding coursework is recommended but not required, which is why hiring managers tend to prefer candidates with a CPC or CCS instead.

Comparing AAPC and AHIMA certifications 

Why Medical Coders and Employers Prefer AAPC Credentials 

Other Credentials

Credentials from organizations like NHA, AMBA, and others are far less commonly requested by employers. Based on feedback from thousands of medical coders in Coding Clarified’s Facebook communities, these certifications do not offer the same hiring advantages as the AAPC or AHIMA credentials.

Credentials and Experience Increase Earning Potential

In the coding industry, both experience and additional credentials—especially specialty certifications—are highly valued. The more knowledge and hands-on experience you gain, the stronger your earning potential becomes. Coders who continue learning can grow into higher-paying roles, such as:

• Auditor

• Educator

• CDI specialist

• Inpatient coder

• Risk adjustment coder

• Coding manager

Medical coding offers a tremendous career path with room for advancement.

AAPC Specialty Credentials

AAPC also has 18 specialty credentials for coders with expertise in specific fields, including:

• CASCC™ – Ambulatory Surgical Center

• CANPC™ – Anesthesia and Pain Management

• CCC™ – Cardiology

• CCVTC™ – Cardiovascular and Thoracic Surgery

• CPCD™ – Dermatology

• CEDC™ – Emergency Department

• CEMC™ – Evaluation and Management

• CFPC™ – Family Practice

• CGIC™ – Gastroenterology

• CGSC™ – General Surgery

• CHONC™ – Hematology and Oncology

• CIRCC® – Interventional Radiology and Cardiovascular

• COBGC™ – Obstetrics and Gynecology

• COPC™ – Ophthalmology

• COSC™ – Orthopedic Surgery

• CPEDC™ – Pediatrics

• CRHC™ – Rheumatology

• CUC™ – Urology

These can significantly boost your earning potential and marketability once you gain experience.

Medical Coding Credentials 

AHIMA Microcredentials

AHIMA offers microcredentials, which demonstrate focused expertise in specific skill sets aligned with employer needs. They take less time and resources to complete than full credentials and may include areas such as:

• Risk Adjustment Coding (RAC)

• Release of Information (ROI)

• Clinical Documentation Integrity (CDI) – Outpatient

• Patient Identification & Matching

• Auditing: Inpatient Coding

• Auditing: Outpatient Coding

AHIMA Micro Credentials 

AHIMA RHIA & RHIT (Degree-Based Credentials)

AHIMA has two degree-based credentials, RHIA and RHIT, which require an approved CAHIIM-accredited college program. Accreditation only applies to colleges, not trade or vocational schools.

Acquiring AAPC credentials (such as CPC® and specialties) or AHIMA coding credentials like CCA, CCS, or CCS-P does not require a degree—though AAPC recommends having one.

What’s Important When Choosing a Medical Coding School?

Selecting the right medical coding school is a critical step in your career journey. The quality of your education directly impacts how confident and prepared you’ll feel when you sit for your certification exam—and how successful you’ll be as a new coder.

Use this checklist to evaluate any program:

Reputation

• Does the school have a strong, credible presence online?

• Are there reviews or testimonials available?

Transparency

• Does the website clearly explain what is included in the course?

• Are prices and benefits listed?

Responsiveness

• Does staff respond quickly and professionally to your questions?

• Are they knowledgeable and helpful?

Community & Support

• Do they have:

  • A Facebook group?

  • A TikTok channel

  • An Instagram

  • A YouTube channel?

What to Ask Before Choosing a Medical Coding School | Coding Clarified

How to Choose a Good Medical Coding Course

With so many options available—AAPC, AHIMA, online programs, colleges, vocational schools, trade schools, and individual instructors—it’s important to choose a medical coding course that truly prepares you for certification and employment.

Avoid Introductory or CEU-Only Classes

Make sure the course you choose is not just:

• An introductory or overview class

• A review/refresher course

• A CEU-only class

Certification prep requires:

• Deep understanding of ICD-10-CM, CPT®, and HCPCS

• Clear instructions in guidelines and coding conventions

• Practice exams and application-based training

Introductory or CEU-only classes usually do not provide this level of depth.

Use Caution—Not All Courses Are Equal

While there are many excellent online and in-person programs, there are also misleading or low-quality courses. Your best approach is to:

• Research thoroughly

• Compare programs carefully

• Use your own judgment—not just social media recommendations

This ensures the program aligns with your goals, learning style, and budget.

Understanding AAPC Vendor Courses

Many instructors teach using the official AAPC CPC® curriculum as approved AAPC vendors. This means:

• You’re still learning the same AAPC coursework

• The instructor is AAPC-certified

• Course benefits, pricing, and support vary widely

Pay close attention to what each program includes:

What It Means to Be an AAPC Education Provider 

Compare With What the Coding Clarified Medical Coding Course Includes

• 80-clock-hour self-paced course

• 100% remote studies

• Access to the AAPC online medical coding class

• CPT, ICD-10, HCPCS textbook

• Instructor video/audio files to implement notes into your books

• 1:1 time with instructor as needed

• Professionally written résumé (upon completion of internship)

• AAPC Membership (assigned at completion of course)

• CPC Exam Voucher x2 (assigned at completion of course)

• Job placement assistance/resources (once certified or completed internship)

• Online HCC Internship (once completed Practicode)

• Practicode (upon becoming certified as CPC)

• CPC Practice Exam Bundle x3 (upon completion of course)

• CPC Study Guide (electronic)

• CPC Exam Online Review (upon completion of course)

These differences can significantly affect your preparation and overall value.

Use Caution With Social Media Opinions

If you ask for recommendations online, expect many different—and sometimes conflicting—opinions. People have:

• Different learning styles

• Different backgrounds

• Different expectations

• Different levels of effort

Not every opinion will apply to your situation. Also remember:

• Newly credentialed coders posting about job struggles often need a better job-search strategy—not a different credential.

• Working coders typically don’t spend their time on social media discussing complaints.

• Hiring managers, recruiters, and employers view social media, so maintain professionalism at all times.

Choose the Learning Format That Fits Your Life

You can learn online or in person. Consider:

• Your schedule

• Your preferred learning style

• Your location

• Your need for flexibility or structure

Both formats can be excellent if the program is reputable and well-supported.

Compare Costs & Benefits Carefully

Most coding programs use:

• The same ICD-10-CM, CPT®, and HCPCS manuals

• Often, the same or similar course materials

What does vary significantly is:

• Instructor quality

• Level of support

• Included resources (books, vouchers, practice exams, internship opportunities)

• 1:1 guidance availability

A high-quality course should always include access to a certified instructor who can answer questions, provide clarification, and support your learning.

What to Ask Before Choosing a Medical Coding School | Coding Clarified 

Salary Expectations After Earning Your AAPC CPC Certification

Understanding salary expectations is an important part of planning your medical coding career. Every year, AAPC releases a salary survey, but new coders should interpret this data with caution. The survey does not separate salaries by years of experience, which means the averages often reflect the earnings of seasoned coders—not those just starting out. This can unintentionally create discouragement for CPC-A holders entering the field for the first time.

Entry Level Medical Coding Hourly Pay 

Be Wary of Unrealistic Salary Claims

Some schools advertise high starting salaries to attract students, but these figures often represent experienced coders, not beginners. Salary growth in medical coding—like any profession—is tied to:

• Experience

• Performance

• Productivity

• Accuracy

• Additional credentials

Your income will naturally increase as you gain real-world experience and expand your credentials.

Research Real Job Postings in Your Area

The best way to understand realistic starting wages is to review actual CPC job descriptions in your region. Look for:

• Required vs. preferred experience

• Salary or hourly ranges

• Whether CPC-A candidates are accepted

• Opportunities for training or apprenticeship

This gives you a more accurate picture than national surveys or marketing claims.

Prepare Yourself Early

Before beginning your job search, do your own research:

• Look at local job postings

• Understand employer expectations

• Prepare your résumé and LinkedIn

• Learn how to communicate your transferable skills

• Network with coding professionals

Being proactive will help you enter the job market confident, prepared, and ready for success.

CPC-A Job Search Tips 

Believe in Yourself—Every Coder Starts Somewhere

There are many opportunities available for new coders, but success often depends on:

• A strong résumé

• Professional presentation

• Willingness to start in a related role

• Persistence in the job search

• Confidence in your skills

Some employers even offer training to help new coders become valuable members of the team.

Avoid Social Media Discouragement

It’s common to see newly credentialed coders on social media expressing frustration about their job search. Remember:

• Their experiences don’t reflect the entire industry.

• There may be factors they’re unaware of, such as a weak résumé or poor job-search strategy.

• Working coders rarely post complaints because they’re busy working.

Their frustration can unintentionally discourage others, but it should not define your outlook. Medical coding remains a strong, growing, and rewarding career field.

Why Do Employers Require Experience in Medical Coding?

Medical coding directly affects a healthcare organization’s financial health and compliance. For this reason, many employers prefer to hire coders with experience. The accuracy and skill of the coder can determine whether a provider receives timely, correct reimbursement—or faces costly setbacks.

Experienced Coders Protect Revenue

A skilled, experienced medical coder can identify:

• Missed charges

• Incorrect or incomplete documentation

• Opportunities for proper reimbursement

• Coding patterns that improve financial performance

These coders help capture unrealized revenue that might otherwise be lost due to errors, omissions, or misunderstandings of coding guidelines.

Inexperienced Coders Can Create Risk

While new coders are fully capable of learning and becoming excellent employees, employers must consider the risks associated with inexperience. Coding errors can result in:

• Claim denials

• Delayed payments

• Compliance concerns

• Potential audit findings

• Serious financial and legal consequences, including allegations of fraud

This is why many organizations seek coders who already have hands-on experience—or are willing to train new coders gradually under close guidance.

The Good News: Every Experienced Coder Started as a Beginner

Although employers value experience, every coder begins with zero experience. Many organizations will hire new coders who demonstrate:

• Strong foundational knowledge

• Professionalism

• Attention to detail

• A willingness to learn

• Solid communication skills

• A positive attitude

With the right training and support, new coders quickly gain the experience employers look for—and become valuable contributors to the revenue cycle.

Can I Work Remotely as a Medical Coder?

Yes—you absolutely can work remotely as a medical coder. In fact, remote coding is one of the biggest attractions of this career field. However, it’s important to understand that most coders do not start their very first job remotely. Remote work typically comes once you’ve gained enough experience to code independently, confidently, and accurately.

Why Remote Work Usually Comes After Some Experience

In a remote position, coders are expected to:

• Meet daily productivity requirements

• Work independently without constant supervision

• Navigate complex charts and unfamiliar scenarios

• Research answers on their own

• Maintain strict accuracy and compliance standards

If you encounter issues you don’t understand and have no immediate coworker or supervisor to turn to, it can slow your productivity and affect performance. Employers want to ensure you’re fully trained and capable before placing you in a remote role. 

Resourcefulness Is Essential

Successful remote coders develop strong skills in:

• Independent problem-solving

• Researching guidelines and industry rules

• Using Google and other reliable resources

• Navigating coding references and online tools

• Managing time and compliance expectations

Once you can confidently code without needing constant assistance, you become an excellent candidate for remote work.

The Path to Remote Coding Is Achievable

Many coders begin in hybrid or on-site positions, gain experience, and transition to fully remote roles within months or a couple of years. With dedication, strong fundamentals, and consistent accuracy, you can absolutely reach your goal of working from home as a medical coder.

Remote Medical Coding

2026 AAPC CPC Exam Information

Exam Format

• 100 multiple-choice questions (approximately 2 minutes per question)

• 4 hours to complete (online or in-person, one sitting)

• Passing score: 70% (you can miss up to 30 questions)

• Open book using 3 current-year coding manuals:

  • CPT® (AMA Professional Edition only, no Expert)

  • ICD-10-CM (any publisher)

  • HCPCS Level II (any publisher/version)

2026 exams will be offered online or at testing centers only (no local chapter exam locations).

Bathroom breaks are permitted, but the clock does not stop, and you will likely need to do a room scan again before continuing (for online exams).

AAPC CPC Exam FAQs 

Choosing the Correct AAPC CPC Exam Format for You FAQs 

What the CPC Exam Tests

The exam focuses on the correct application of coding with adherence to:

• Documentation

• Guidelines

• Modifier use

• Regulations

• Coding conventions

Approximately 70% of the exam is coding scenarios, with the remainder covering correct use of the coding manuals and guidelines.

CPC Exam Content – CPT Sections

Questions based on the CPT® code book include:

• 10,000 Series (Integumentary): 6 questions

• 20,000 Series (Musculoskeletal): 6 questions

• 30,000 Series (Respiratory, Cardiovascular, Hemic & Lymphatic, Mediastinum & Diaphragm): 6 questions

• 40,000 Series (Digestive): 6 questions

• 50,000 Series (Urinary, Reproductive, Endocrine): 6 questions

• 60,000 Series (Nervous): 6 questions

• E/M Services: 6 questions

• Anesthesia: 4 questions

• Radiology: 6 questions

• Laboratory & Pathology: 6 questions

• Medicine: 6 questions

Additional Topics

• Medical terminology: 4 questions

• Anatomy: 4 questions

• ICD-10-CM application & guidelines: 5 questions

• HCPCS Level II (including modifiers): 3 questions

• Coding guidelines & modifier use: 7 questions

• Compliance & regulatory (Medicare, NCCI edits, HIPAA, POS codes, etc.): 3 questions

The CPC® exam will test your ability to pull everything together in medical cases, requiring you to accurately code from clinical documentation.

AAPC CPC Exam Tips

There are 10 multiple-choice question cases involving CPT®, ICD-10-CM, and/or HCPCS Level II across multiple body systems and services. Each question is worth 1 point—many students save the cases for last.

How to Approach a Long Medical Coding Exam Scenario 

Coding Manuals for the CPC Exam

Approved Code Books

Current year or previous year only:

• AMA CPT® Professional Edition only (no Expert versions)

• ICD-10-CM  any publisher

• HCPCS Level II, any publisher

Because code sets update annually, it is always best to use the current year manuals so you’re not missing new or revised codes.

Prep your Medical Coding Manuals for AAPC CPC Exam 

Manual Notes

Online exams:

• Handwritten notes are allowed if they relate to daily coding activities.

• Long passages or copied practice exam or study guide questions/answers are not allowed.

• No altering/whiting out/printing over pages to add extra information.

For eBook exam formats, electronic code books and search functions are provided within the exam platform to keep testing conditions consistent.

Prep your Medical Coding Manuals for AAPC CPC Exam

Book Tabs

Tabs may be:

• Inserted, taped, pasted, glued, or stapled

• Used only to mark pages with words or numbers (e.g., “E/M,” “Integumentary”)

Tabs may not be used to supplement or add extra information.

Tabbing the CPT Manual 

CPC-A -Apprentice Status

When you pass the CPC exam, you receive the CPC-A credential, which signifies apprentice status.

You will remain an apprentice until you fulfill the 2-year experience requirement, then submit proof and have the “A” removed.

How to Remove the “A”

To remove your apprentice status, you can use a combination of:

• 80-Hour Medical Coding Course (deducts 1 year)

• AAPC Practicode (deducts 1 year)

• Verified on-the-job coding experience

Options include:

• 80-hour course + Practicode = 2 years

• 80-hour course + 1 year of work experience

• Practicode + 1 year of work experience

• 2 years of verified on-the-job experience

Proof is typically provided through:

• Course completion letters or transcripts

• Letters from employers on company letterhead

CPC-A 

Practicode

AAPC Practicode

Practicode is AAPC’s web-based program using redacted medical records to give CPC-As real-world experience coding.

• Completing Practicode can deduct one year from your 2-year apprenticeship requirement.

• It can be completed during or after your CPC® training.

Many students in Coding Clarified’s CPC course use Practicode as part of their pathway to remove the “A.”

Unlock Medical Coder Success with AAPC Practicode 

Maintaining Your CPC Credential With CEUs (Continuing Education Units)

To maintain your credential, you must:

• Keep your AAPC membership active (annual dues)

• Earn 36 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) every 2 years for one certification

Key points:

• CEUs are reported every 2 years, based on your membership renewal month.

• Membership fees are due every year, even if CEUs aren’t due that year.

• CEUs earned before certification do not count.

• More certifications = more CEUs required.

• CEUs do not rollover

Many CEUs can be earned through:

• Webinars

• Local chapter meetings

• Workshops

• Approved online courses

Coding Clarified helps students and coders identify free and low-cost CEU options to keep credentials active and skills up to date.

AAPC CEU INFO 

Maintaining  Your CPC With CEU

What Coding Clarified’s CPC Training Includes

Coding Clarified’s CPC training is designed to support you from student to certified coder and beyond:

• 80-clock-hour self-paced course

• 100% remote studies

• Access to the official AAPC online medical coding class

• CPT, ICD-10-CM, HCPCS textbook

• Instructor video/audio files to implement notes into your books

• 1:1 time with instructor as needed

• Professionally written résumé (upon completion of internship)

• AAPC Membership (assigned at completion of course)

• CPC Exam Voucher x2 (assigned at completion of course)

• Job placement assistance/resources (once certified or completed internship)

• Online HCC Internship (once completed Practicode)

• Practicode (upon becoming certified as CPC)

• CPC Practice Exam Bundle x3 (upon completion of course)

• CPC Study Guide (electronic)

• CPC Exam Online Review (upon completion of the course)

Everything is structured to help you:

• Learn the material

• Pass the CPC exam

• Gain experience

• Enter the job market with support

Medical coding is a solid, flexible, and high-growth career path, especially for those willing to:

• Commit to proper training

• Gain real-world experience

• Continue learning and earning CEUs

• Present themselves professionally to employers

With the right education, realistic expectations, and strong support, you can absolutely become a successful CPC® medical coder—and, in time, move into remote work, specialty credentials, and advanced roles.

What Coding Clarified School Resources Can Help You Become A CPC Medical Coder 

Good luck on your coding journey!