CPC-A is the apprentice version of the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) credential from the AAPC. You earn it when you pass the CPC exam before you have two years of coding experience. This guide explains what the “A” means, what you can do while you hold it, and the three ways to remove it so you hold the full CPC.
What Is CPC-A Certification in Medical Coding?
CPC-A stands for Certified Professional Coder Apprentice. It is the entry level status of the CPC, the most recognized credential for physician and outpatient coding. You take the same CPC exam as every other candidate. The only difference is experience: the “A” stays on your credential until you meet the AAPC experience requirement.
For the full exam details, requirements, and cost, read our CPC certification guide, or compare all medical coding certifications.
What Does the “A” Mean in CPC-A?
The “A” stands for Apprentice. It tells employers that you passed the CPC exam and know CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS Level II coding, but have not yet completed the hands on experience the AAPC requires for the full credential. It is not a different exam and it is not a lesser test score.
How to Remove the CPC-A: Three Routes at a Glance
| Route | What you need | Typical time after you pass |
|---|---|---|
| 1. Work experience | Two years of verified coding experience | About 2 years |
| 2. Coding course plus experience | Proof of 80 hours of coding education plus one year of verified experience | About 1 year |
| 3. Coding course plus Practicode | Proof of 80 hours of coding education plus completion of AAPC Practicode | Weeks to a few months |
Route 1: Two Years of Verified Experience
Work as a coder and have your experience verified in writing, typically with letters from your employer and a coworker on company letterhead confirming your experience using the code sets. This is the slowest route, and it requires finding a coding job while you still hold the A.
Route 2: 80 Hours of Coding Education Plus One Year
Completing an 80 hour coding preparation course counts toward one of the two years. You still need one year of verified coding experience to finish the requirement.
Route 3: 80 Hours of Coding Education Plus Practicode
AAPC Practicode gives you real, redacted medical records to code and is accepted toward the experience requirement. When you combine it with an 80 hour coding course, you can remove the A without waiting for a year on the job. This is the route most Coding Clarified students use, because our course is 80 hours and Practicode is included in tuition.
How to Submit Your Experience to the AAPC
- Gather your documentation: proof of course completion, Practicode completion, and any experience letters.
- Log in to your AAPC account and follow the apprentice removal instructions.
- Submit your documents and watch for confirmation that the “A” has been removed from your credential.
The AAPC sets and updates these rules, so always confirm the current process on the AAPC apprentice removal page before you submit.
What You Can Do While You Hold the A
- Work as a medical coder. Many employers hire CPC-A coders, especially those with real chart experience.
- List CPC-A on your resume. It shows employers you passed the exam.
- Keep your credential active. Maintain your AAPC membership and continuing education just like a full CPC.
Ready to job hunt? Read how to find a medical coding job and how to gain experience as a new CPC-A.
How Coding Clarified Helps You Remove the A Faster
- 80 hour instructor-led course that counts as your coding education.
- Practicode included in tuition, completed after the course.
- Real chart experience through our medical coding internship and medical coder apprenticeship.
See the full online medical coding training program.
CPC-A FAQs
What does CPC stand for in medical coding?
CPC stands for Certified Professional Coder, the AAPC credential for physician and outpatient coding. CPC-A is the same credential with apprentice status until you meet the experience requirement. Read the full CPC certification guide for requirements, cost, and exam details.
Is CPC-A a real certification?
Yes. CPC-A is the AAPC CPC credential with apprentice status. You passed the same exam as a full CPC.
Can I get a job with a CPC-A?
Yes. Many employers hire CPC-A coders, and real chart experience from an internship or apprenticeship makes you stand out.
How long does it take to remove the A?
It depends on your route. Two years of work experience takes about two years. An 80 hour course plus Practicode can take weeks to a few months.
Does Practicode remove the A?
Practicode counts toward the experience requirement. Combined with an 80 hour coding course, it can remove the A without a year of work experience.
Do I have to retake the CPC exam to remove the A?
No. You keep your exam result. You only submit proof that you met the experience requirement.
The CPC-A designation is issued by AAPC, the credentialing organization behind the CPC certification.