CPC vs CCS: Which Medical Coding Certification Do Employers Want? (2026)

CPC or CCS: which should you get? For most new coders, the CPC. It is the credential most entry level and remote job postings ask for, and it covers physician and outpatient coding. The CCS is AHIMA’s facility credential for hospital inpatient coding, and most coders add it after they have experience.

AAPC CPC or AHIMA CCS: Which Credential Is Best for a New Coder and Why

When you’re starting out in medical coding, choosing between the AAPC Certified Professional Coder (CPC) and AHIMA Certified Coding Specialist (CCS) can feel overwhelming. Both are respected credentials in the healthcare industry, but they differ in focus, career pathways, and readiness expectations. Understanding these differences helps new coders choose the right starting point for success.

AAPC CPC certification

AHIMA: Certifications Overview

Overview of the Credentials

AAPC – Certified Professional Coder (CPC)
The CPC credential is designed primarily for outpatient and physician-based coding. It focuses on CPT, HCPCS Level II, and ICD-10-CM coding systems. AAPC’s CPC exam tests a coder’s ability to apply coding guidelines to real-world physician encounters such as office visits, surgeries, and outpatient procedures.

AHIMA – Certified Coding Specialist (CCS)
The CCS credential emphasizes inpatient and hospital-based coding, with a heavier focus on ICD-10-CM and ICD-10-PCS. It’s often considered an advanced credential that tests a coder’s knowledge of complex inpatient cases, compliance, and data reporting within hospital systems.

Exam Comparison

Which Is Best for a New Coder?

For most new coders, the CPC is the better starting point. Here’s why:

1. Easier Entry into the Field
   The CPC is more beginner-friendly and aligns closely with entry-level positions like outpatient coder, physician coder, or billing specialist. AAPC also provides structured education and resources specifically designed for newcomers.

2. Industry Recognition and Accessibility
   AAPC’s CPC is widely recognized across the U.S. and often preferred for outpatient or multi-specialty coding jobs. Many employers consider it the first step into the professional coding career path.

3. Immediate Job Opportunities
   New coders with a CPC-A (apprentice) credential can start gaining experience immediately. Employers and AAPC-approved mentorship programs help remove the apprentice designation after practical hours are logged.

4. Steppingstone for Advancement
   After gaining experience, a CPC can pursue specialized certifications or move into inpatient coding later with additional education, including earning the AHIMA CCS later in their career.

When the CCS May Be the Right Choice

The CCS is ideal if you:

• Have formal coding education (such as a degree or AHIMA-approved program)

• Prefer hospital-based or inpatient coding

• Want to work with ICD-10-PCS procedures and complex DRG assignments

• Aim for advanced or auditing roles sooner rather than later

However, without prior coding experience, new coders may find the CCS exam significantly more challenging.

What Employers Post For

Search any job board and you will see the CPC named far more often, especially in physician offices, clinics, billing companies, and remote roles. The CCS shows up mostly in hospital inpatient and health information management postings, often alongside the RHIT. Many postings accept either credential.

Cost and Difficulty Compared

	CPC (AAPC)	CCS (AHIMA)
Exam fee	$425 for one attempt, $499 for two (student $400 and $475)	$299 members, $399 nonmembers
Format	100 questions, 4 hours	107 questions (97 scored), 4 hours
Procedure codes	CPT and HCPCS Level II	ICD-10-PCS and CPT
Difficulty for a new coder	Challenging but built for entry level	Harder; built for experienced facility coders

For full details, read our CPC certification guide and CCS certification guide, or compare every option in our certifications guide.

Can You Hold Both?

Yes. Many experienced coders hold both credentials, which opens physician, outpatient, and hospital inpatient roles. The common path is the CPC first, a year or more of experience, then the CCS.

The Bottom Line

Both credentials are valuable and respected, but for new coders, the AAPC CPC offers a smoother entry point, broader outpatient opportunities, and a strong foundation for long-term growth. Once experience and confidence are gained, pursuing the AHIMA CCS can enhance your qualifications and open hospital-level opportunities.

In short:
➡ Start with the CPC to build your skills and professional credibility.
➡ Advance to the CCS when you’re ready for complex inpatient coding.

Coding Clarified can train you for the CPC, as we are an AAPC-approved education provider. You may even qualify for a scholarship/grant!  

Coding Clarified Medical Coding course includes the following: 

Access to the online medical coding course using the AAPC-approved curriculum  

CPT, ICD10, HCPC, Workbook & Textbook  

Instructor audio/video files for each chapter to implement notes into your manuals  

1:1 time with instructor as needed  

Professionally written resume  

AAPC Membership  

CPC Exam Voucher  

Job placement assistance/resources  

Online HCC Internship  

Free 50-Question Practice Exam  

Practicode 

Coding Clarified CPC Course 

Coding Clarified AAPC CPC WIOA Scholarships/Grant 

 

 

CPC vs CCS FAQs

Should I get the CPC or CCS first?

For most new coders, the CPC first. It matches most entry level and remote job postings. Add the CCS later if you want hospital inpatient work.

Is the CCS harder than the CPC?

Most coders find the CCS harder because it covers inpatient coding and ICD-10-PCS, which the CPC does not test.

Can I hold both the CPC and CCS?

Yes. Many experienced coders hold both, which qualifies them for physician, outpatient, and hospital inpatient roles.

How much do the CPC and CCS exams cost?

The CPC is $425 for one attempt or $499 for two, with student pricing of $400 and $475. The CCS is $299 for AHIMA members and $399 for nonmembers.