What is the Child Life Certification Exam?

In order to become a Certified Child Life Specialist, individuals must sit for and pass the Child Life Certification Exam. The exam is an objective test that covers knowledge, understanding and practical application of important child life concepts. Individuals have four hours to complete 150 multiple-choice questions. Those who achieve a passing score become certified for a five-year period, after which time they must recertify. 

The exam is developed by a group of committees comprised of experts in child life. These committees are part of the Child Life Certification Commission (CLCC) and include the Item Writing, Item Review, and Exam Assembly Committees. 

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Requirements to take the Child Life Certification Exam

The following are required in order to be eligible to take the Child Life Certification Exam.

Child Life Certification Exam Steps

The following video showcases the three steps of the Child Life Certification Exam: preparing for the exam, registering for the exam, and taking the exam.

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Testing Accomodations

Candidates requesting special testing accommodations based on a documented visual, orthopedic, speech or hearing impairment, other health or physical impairment, a specific learning disability, or a psychological or mental disorder that requires modifications to the usual testing environment must complete the Special Testing Accommodations request form.

The request and required documentation must be recieved a minimum of 2 weeks prior to the registration deadline for the desired exam administration to ensure sufficient time to review the application and make arrangements for any approved modifications.

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Child Life Certification Exam

Resources

The following resources are intended to support individuals taking the Child Life Certification Exam:

FAQs: Child Life Certification Exam

The following are frequently asked questions related to the Child Life Certification Exam.