CERTIFIED PAYROLL PROFESSIONAL - Candidate Handbook 2021-2022 Edition - Pearson VUE
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CERTIFIED PAYROLL PROFESSIONAL Candidate Handbook 2021-2022 Edition
QUICK REFERENCE
CERTIFICATION BOARD — CPP COMMITTEE
AMERICAN PAYROLL ASSOCIATION
www.americanpayroll.org
660 North Main Avenue, Suite 100
San Antonio, TX 78205-1217
(210) 226-4600 ext. 3001
certification@americanpayroll.org
APA Customer Service hours are Monday–Friday, 7:00 a.m.–5:00 p.m. CT; closed on local holidays.
Candidates may contact the APA with questions about certification, exam applications, and exam payments.
PEARSON VUE/APA
www.pearsonvue.com/apa
5601 Green Valley Dr.
Bloomington, MN 55437
(800) 470-8757
(Locate international phone numbers at http://www.pearsonvue.com/apa/contact)
Monday–Friday 7am–7pm (Central Time Zone); Closed on local holidays
Candidates may contact Pearson VUE with questions about exam registration and scheduling.
THE CERTIFICATION PROCESS
Step 1: Exam Eligibility
Step 2: Submit the Application
Step 3: Pay for the Exam
Step 4: Make Exam Reservation
Step 5: Prepare for Exam Day
Step 6: After the Exam
Step 7: Recertification
ALL CANDIDATES ARE EXPECTED TO HAVE READ THIS HANDBOOK BEFORE TAKING
THE CERTIFIED PAYROLL PROFESSIONAL (CPP) EXAMINATION.TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION.....................................................................1 EXAM RESULTS............................................................................ 14
ABOUT THIS CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK.................................. 1 RECERTIFICATION................................................................15
ABOUT THE AMERICAN PAYROLL ASSOCIATION....................... 1 THE RECERTIFICATION PERIOD ................................................. 15
HISTORY AND PURPOSE OF CERTIFICATION.............................. 1 RECERTIFICATION BY CONTINUING EDUCATION..................... 15
USE OF CERTIFICATION................................................................ 1 RECERTIFICATION CREDIT HOURS FOR APA PROFESSIONAL
MEMBERSHIP.............................................................................. 15
ABOUT THE EXAM.................................................................2
ELIGIBILITY ................................................................................... 2 DETERMINING IF CONTINUING EDUCATION MEETS APA
REQUIREMENTS FOR RECERTIFICATION ................................... 15
THE CONTENT OF THE CPP EXAM............................................... 2
RECERTIFICATION PROCESS....................................................... 15
EXAM PREPARATION.................................................................... 3
LATE RECERTIFICATION SUBMISSIONS...................................... 16
EXAM ADMINISTRATION.............................................................. 3
DESIGNATION REINSTATEMENTS............................................... 16
THE APPLICATION..................................................................4
RECERTIFICATION BY EXAMINATION......................................... 17
COMPLETING THE APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATION BY
EXAMINATION.............................................................................. 4 CPP EXAM CONTENT OUTLINE...........................................18
EXAM FEE AND RESERVATIONS.............................................5 BIBLIOGRAPHY/CPP EXAM PREPARATION.........................19
EXAM FEE...................................................................................... 5 SAMPLE CPP EXAM QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS................20
EXAM RESERVATIONS................................................................... 5 APA CODE OF ETHICS..........................................................21
APA LEARNING CENTER EXAM..................................................... 7 APPLICATION FOR CERTIFICATION BY EXAMINATION......23
ONLINE PROCTORED EXAM........................................................ 7 APA MEMBERSHIP OFFER....................................................25
SPECIAL EXAM REQUESTS............................................................ 8
ATTAINMENT OF CERTIFICATION..........................................9
DENIAL OR REVOCATION OF CERTIFICATION*.......................... 9
APA MEMBERSHIP......................................................................... 9
EXAM DAY............................................................................10
WHAT TO BRING......................................................................... 10
ACCEPTABLE FORMS OF CANDIDATE IDENTIFICATION............ 10
SUGGESTED MATERIALS............................................................. 10
EXAM PROCEDURES................................................................... 10
WEATHER DELAYS AND CANCELLATIONS................................. 11
TESTING POLICIES....................................................................... 11
HELPFUL HINTS FOR REDUCING TESTING ANXIETY.................. 12
TEST TAKING TIPS....................................................................... 12
CANCELLATION AND RESCHEDULING................................13
ABSENCE/LATENESS POLICY....................................................... 13
CHANGE/CANCEL POLICY......................................................... 13
RETAKING THE EXAM.................................................................. 13
AFTER THE EXAM.................................................................14
Pearson VUE does not discriminate on the basis of age, sex, race, creed,
disabling condition, religion, national origin, or any other protected characteristics.
Copyright © 2021 Pearson Education, Inc., or its affiliate(s). All Rights Reserved. Pubs_Orders@pearson.com
Copyright © 2021 by the American Payroll Institute, Inc. All Rights Reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic or mechanical, including
photocopy, recording, or any information storage and retrieval system, except printing of complete pages with the copyright notice, for instructional use and not for resale. Portions of this work were published in
previous editions. Printed in the United States of America.INTRODUCTION Once considered a technical skill, payroll has become
a professional discipline. Payroll professionals are
knowledgeable in all aspects of payroll, stay abreast of
ABOUT THIS CERTIFICATION HANDBOOK changes in related technologies, and, through independent
research, keep current with the legislative and regulatory
This handbook explains the eligibility requirements that
environment. A payroll professional must be proficient
you must meet to take the examination and provides
in all aspects of taxation and tax reporting, MIS, human
information about making an examination reservation,
resources, and accounting as each of these relate to the
receiving examination results, what to expect on exam day,
payroll environment. Today’s payroll professionals function
and recertification. In addition, this handbook provides a
as members of a management team. The APA offers the
suggested bibliography, study references, sample questions,
Certified Payroll Professional (CPP) Mastery Examination to
and a general content outline of the examination.
recognize those who have achieved this level of professional
Exceptions are not made for candidates who do not read this proficiency.
handbook.
Certification is the recognition of professional skills by one’s
You may obtain additional copies of this handbook peers. CPP recognition is given by the APA to those who:
by downloading it from the APA website
1. meet the eligibility requirements for admission to the
(www.americanpayroll.org/cpp).
examination as set forth in this handbook;
Please read this handbook completely and carefully be- 2. successfully complete the examination; and
fore contacting the American Payroll Association (APA) or
3. subscribe to the APA Code of Ethics.
Pearson VUE with questions. It is critical that you adhere
strictly to all procedures and deadlines in this handbook. Certification is granted for five (5) full calendar years, at
which time recertification is required.
ABOUT THE AMERICAN PAYROLL The goals of the APA’s Certified Payroll Professional
ASSOCIATION certification program are:
The American Payroll Association (APA), founded in 1982, • to promote the standard for payroll professionals, which
is an organization of payroll professionals in the U.S. and is is accepted by the business community and the public at
committed to: large;
• enhancing the quality of the payroll profession by offering • to encourage professional growth and individual study by
educational opportunities the payroll professional;
• fostering the exchange of payroll expertise at the local level • to provide the standard of requisite knowledge for the
payroll professional;
• raising public awareness of payroll professionalism
• to measure by means of the certification examination the
• representing the payroll profession in Washington, D.C.
attainment and application of that standard; and
• offering certification programs to support the payroll
• to recognize formally those colleagues who continue to
profession
meet the requirements of the APA Certification Board’s
The steady growth of APA membership since its founding in CPP Committee.
1982 indicates the acceptance of the Association’s goals, by
the U.S. business community in general and by the payroll USE OF CERTIFICATION
profession in particular. The CPP certification program is
The CPP Examination is voluntary, and certification is
sponsored by APA and developed by the CPP Committee of
conferred by the APA Certification Board’s CPP Committee
the APA Certification Board.
solely for the purposes stated in this certification handbook.
Those persons or organizations who choose to incorporate
HISTORY AND PURPOSE OF CERTIFICATION the CPP Examination as a condition of employment or
The pressures of economic and legislative developments on advancement do so of their own volition. Such persons or
the payroll function have broadened the scope of payroll organizations must determine individually whether the use
beyond its basic function of paying employees. Today’s of such a certification process, including its eligibility and
payroll professional utilizes the latest technology for executing recertification requirements, meets their respective needs and
the payroll and, in many cases, interfaces with other systems complies with any laws applicable to them.
within and outside the organization. Moreover, payroll has
come under a wide array of governmental regulations and
requirements.
1ABOUT THE EXAM Option 3
• Certified Payroll Professional Boot Camp
*Note: This comprehensive 20-session virtual course is
ELIGIBILITY delivered exclusively by APA
The Certification Board of the APA requires that payroll Eligibility criteria should not be considered the only criteria for
professionals fulfill ONE of the following criteria before they preparation for the CPP examination. Candidates qualifying
take the Certified Payroll Professional Examination. Only the through any of the criteria should be aware that a number of
courses listed below, delivered exclusively by APA, are eligible study aids are available as added preparation for the CPP Exami-
to fulfill the education options listed in Criteria 2 and 3. nation. No one source should be considered the only basis for
Courses outside of this list will not fulfill the requirements of preparation. Successful candidates indicate that they pursued at
Criteria 2 and 3. Click on course title(s) under Criterion 2 or 3 least a three-month minimum course of study and review based
for more information. on the CPP examination content outline (see section CPP Exam
CRITERION 1 Content Outline).
The payroll professional has been practicing a total of three Individuals meeting any ONE of the three (3) criteria are
(3) years out of the five (5) years preceding the date of the eligible to take the CPP Examination. The APA Certification
examination application. The practice of payroll is defined as Board’s CPP Committee reserves the right to review an
direct or related involvement in at least ONE of the following: applicant’s qualifications and eligibility.
• Payroll Production, Payroll Reporting, Payroll Accounting,
Payroll Systems, and Payroll Taxation Note: If you have been practicing payroll for less than three
• Payroll Administration (3) years and have not met the education requirements for
• Payroll Education/Consulting CPP exam eligibility, you may want to consider taking the
FPC Examination. There are no eligibility requirements for
CRITERION 2 taking the FPC Examination.
Before a candidate takes the examination, the payroll profes-
sional has been employed in the practice of payroll as defined ELIGIBILITY FOR RECERTIFICATION BY EXAM
in Criterion 1 for at least the last 24 months, and has com-
Payroll professionals who are currently certified and are
pleted within the last 24 months, ALL of the following courses
applying for recertification by examination are exempt from
within ONE of the following three options offered by the APA:
the above eligibility requirements.
Option 1
• Payroll Practice Essentials and THE CONTENT OF THE CPP EXAM
• Intermediate Payroll Concepts and The CPP Examination is weighted in approximately the
• Advanced Payroll Concepts and following manner:
• Strategic Payroll Practices I. Core Payroll Concepts...................................... 24%
Option 2 II. Compliance/Research and Resources............... 16%
• Payroll 101: Foundations of Payroll Certificate Program and
III. Calculation of the Paycheck............................. 20%
• Payroll 201: Payroll Administration Certificate Program
IV. Payroll Process and Supporting Systems and
Option 3 Administration.................................................. 12%
• Certified Payroll Professional Boot Camp
V. Payroll Administration and Management......... 10%
*Note: This comprehensive 20-session virtual course is
delivered exclusively by APA. VI. Audits.............................................................. 9%
CRITERION 3 VII. Accounting....................................................... 9%
Before a candidate takes the examination, the payroll profes- A complete content outline of the examination can be found
sional has been employed in the practice of payroll as defined on page 18. Note: The above stated content outline is effec-
in Criterion 1 for at least the last 18 months, has obtained tive as of September 14, 2019. Visit www.americanpayroll.
the FPC designation, and has completed, within the last 18 org/cpp for the latest exam content outline and Knowledge,
months, ALL of the APA courses listed within ONE of the fol- Skills, and Abilities (KSAs).
lowing three options offered by the APA: Successful completion of the CPP examination requires
Option 1 demonstration of the knowledge of payroll practice and
• Intermediate Payroll Concepts and applicable regulations. Tables required to answer ques-
• Advanced Payroll Concepts and tions will be provided as an electronic examination supple-
ment within the testing software. The exam’s tutorial,
• Strategic Payroll Practices
completed before the exam begins, will explain how to use
Option 2 the examination supplement and other features of the exam
• Payroll 201: Payroll Administration Certificate Program software.
2THE FORMAT OF THE EXAM RAW SCORES AND SCALED SCORES
The CPP Examination is administered electronically, and The raw score on the CPP Examination is the number of
candidates have four (4) hours to complete it. The examination questions answered correctly. When all examinees take
consists of 190 multiple-choice questions, including twenty- exactly the same examination, their raw scores can be used
five (25) that are pre-test questions. to compare their performances. However, when there are
The pre-test questions are not counted in the scoring of different forms of an examination (different forms of an
the examination. They are distributed among the scorable examination measure the same knowledge, but use different
questions and will be used for statistical purposes only. questions), some forms will be either slightly easier or
The 165 test/scorable questions are similar to the pre-test more difficult than other forms. Because of this variation in
questions on the examination; therefore, candidates will not difficulty, raw scores will not reliably relate the performances
know which questions are test/scorable questions and which of examinees who take different forms of an examination.
are pre-test questions. Examinees are advised to answer all To make it possible to compare the performances of
examination questions. examinees who are taking different forms of an examination,
The questions are designed to test the examinees’ payroll a statistical procedure called equating is used to compensate
knowledge and ability to apply that knowledge to the for any variations in difficulty between examination forms.
payroll environment. An electronic Examination Supplement After equating, the passing raw score for each form is
containing every table required to correctly answer some converted to 300 on a common scale for all forms. Since
questions will be included in the computer software. Each all forms are equated and all results are converted to the
question has four (4) answer choices listed, only one (1) of same scale, all examinees who receive the same scaled
which is correct. The answer to each question can be derived score demonstrate equivalent ability, regardless of which
independently of the answer to any other question. (See examination form was completed.
Sample CPP Questions and Answers.)
EXAM PREPARATION
HOW THE EXAM IS DEVELOPED No single source of information should be considered the sole
Members of the APA Certification Board’s CPP Committee basis of study for the CPP Examination. A bibliography of
and the Certification Item Development Task Force (CIDTF) suggested materials can be found on page 19.
write questions for possible inclusion in APA’s bank of
payroll examination questions. The questions are reviewed by EXAM ADMINISTRATION
editors at Pearson VUE to ensure compliance with accepted
The CPP Examination is administered worldwide during
question-writing techniques. The edited questions are then
various times of the year. It is imperative that candidates
reviewed by the APA Certification Board’s CPP Committee
identify the Region and corresponding Exam Series desired
for accuracy and relevancy to the activities of experienced
before making an examination reservation. To determine
payroll professionals as defined in the eligibility criteria (see
the correct Exam Series for your region, please see the Exam
Eligibility). Approved questions are then included in the
Reservations section.
examination bank from which questions are selected to create
new examination forms. EXAM ADMINISTRATION DATES
HOW THE PASSING SCORE WAS SET CPP-N America/Online Proctored – Testing during two
The passing score (also known as the cut score) for the CPP windows annually
Examination was recommended by a panel of payroll profession- September 11, 2021 - October 9, 2021
als using the Bookmark standard-setting method. The Bookmark March 19, 2022 - April 16, 2022
method incorporates the difficulty of the examination questions Examinations are based on U.S. Federal Rules and
into the standard-setting process by presenting questions in Regulations that apply to payroll processing on January
ascending order based on their difficulty. The panel then judges 1, 2021.
the performance of a minimally qualified candidate with regard
CPP-LC – After Attending Payroll 201: Payroll
to the examination questions in the ordered item booklet and
Administration Certificate Program, Fridays Only
place a bookmark on the page where the chances of answering
correctly drop below a specified decision rule. September 5, 2020 - September 10, 2021
Examinations are based on U.S. Federal Rules and
The cut score study includes multiple rounds whereby panel-
Regulations that apply to payroll processing on January
ists are provided additional data, have a group discussion, and
1, 2020.
reconsider their bookmark placement. The mean difficulty
September 11, 2021 - September 9, 2022
associated with the panel’s final bookmark placement is then
translated into a cut score. Using this process, the panel rec- Examinations are based on U.S. Federal Rules and
ommends the passing score to the APA Certification Board’s Regulations that apply to payroll processing on January
CPP Committee, which sets the passing score. The passing 1, 2021.
score represents the minimum level of knowledge that must
be demonstrated to pass the examination. continues next page
3CPP-INTL/Military – On Demand testing based on testing
center schedules
THE APPLICATION
September 5, 2020 - September 10, 2021
Examinations are based on U.S. Federal Rules and COMPLETING THE APPLICATION FOR
Regulations that apply to payroll processing on January CERTIFICATION BY EXAMINATION
1, 2020. Please note that you cannot make an exam reservation
September 11, 2021 - September 9, 2022 until after you have completed your application, paid your
Examinations are based on U.S. Federal Rules and examination fee, and received notification from APA that you
Regulations that apply to payroll processing on January are authorized to take the exam. All candidates must complete
1, 2021. the Application for Certification by Examination at www.
americanpayroll.org/applyforcpp (also available on page 23.)
Note: The year 2020 Form W-2 will be applicable for Candidates must use their full legal name (First and Last,
examinations beginning September 5, 2020, through middle names are not required) as it appears on their Primary
September 10, 2021, and the year 2021 Form W-2 will be ID that will be used for admittance at the testing center (see
applicable for examinations beginning September 11, 2021 Acceptable Forms of Candidate Identification).The candi-
through September 9, 2022. date’s immediate supervisor must verify the work experience
by signing the “Employer Verification” section of the exami-
nation application. If the candidate is not currently engaged
EXAM SUPPLEMENTS in payroll practice, the experience must be verified by the
An examination supplement is accessible through the signature of a prior payroll supervisor. Applications must be
computer-based system candidates will use for testing. This submitted to the APA prior to paying and registering for the
supplement is a reproduction of all necessary tables needed CPP exam. Notification of the application's approval or denial
for the calculation of certain exam questions. will be sent to the candidate’s email address provided on the
The listed supplements will be administered from September application. Allow up to three (3) business days from date of
11, 2021 through September 9, 2022. receipt for processing applications received via online, up to
ten (10) business days for applications received via email, and
To complete some exam questions, an electronic Examination
up to fourteen (14) business days for applications received via
Supplement will be available, including the following:
fax or U.S. Mail. A candidate has one (1) year from the date
• Publication 15-T, Federal Income Tax Withholding of approval of an exam application to schedule and complete
Methods
testing. After one (1) year has passed or the candidate com-
• Percentage Method Worksheet for Automated pletes the exam, whichever occurs first, a new exam applica-
Payroll Systems (Worksheet 1 and Tables)
tion must be submitted to take the exam. Choose one of the
• Wage Bracket Method Worksheet for Manual Pay-
roll Systems for use with Forms W-4 from 2020 or following submission options.
later (Worksheet 2 and Tables) 1. ONLINE (preferred, faster)
• Wage Bracket Method Worksheet for Manual Pay- www.americanpayroll.org/applyforcpp
roll Systems for use with Forms W-4 from 2019 or 2. VIA EMAIL
earlier (Worksheet 3 and Tables) apaexam@americanpayroll.org
• Percentage Method Worksheet for Manual Payroll Subject Line: CPP Exam Application
Systems for use with Forms W-4 from 2020 or
later (Worksheet 4 and Tables) 3. VIA FAX
(210) 224-5814
• Percentage Method Worksheet for Manual Payroll
Systems for use with Forms W-4 from 2019 or Attention: CPP Exam Application
earlier (Worksheet 5 and Tables) 4. VIA U.S. MAIL
• Publication 1494 American Payroll Association
Attn: Certification Department
• Uniform Premium Table
660 North Main Avenue, Suite 100
• Annual Lease Value Table San Antonio, TX 78205
• Nonresident Alien Tables Receipt of applications will be verified. Please check your
application status at www.americanpayroll.org/certdashboard
or call APA Customer Service at (210) 224-6406 if you have
questions about your pending application.
By submitting your application, you authorize the APA
Certification Board’s CPP Committee to contact the supervisor
who signed the “Employer Verification” section of your ap-
plication to substantiate your eligibility. The APA Certification
Board’s CPP Committee reserves the right to audit applica-
tions to verify applicant eligibility.
4EXAM FEE AND EXAM RESERVATIONS
Please note that you cannot make an exam reservation
RESERVATIONS until after you have completed your application, paid your
examination fee, and received notification from APA that
you are authorized to take the exam. Please check your
Note: All Candidates are responsible for knowing all application status at www.americanpayroll.org/certdashboard
regulations regarding the examination fee and reservations or call APA Customer Service at (210) 224-6406 if you have
as presented in this handbook. questions about your pending application.
Exams taken at APA Learning Centers must be scheduled di-
EXAM FEE rectly through APA, as described in the APA Learning Center
Exam section.
Candidates must first pay the examination fee after the ap-
proval of the exam application by credit card, debit card, or NORTHERN AMERICAS REGION
check. If you are unable to pay online or by check, please call Since each testing center maintains its own examination
Customer Service at (210) 224-6406 for assistance. All reser- schedule (based on overall demand), it is recommended to
vations are made on a first-come, first-served basis and walk- make a reservation online or by phone as early as possible to
in examinees are prohibited. Payment will not be accepted ensure availability during the preferred exam testing window.
at the Pearson VUE testing centers or APA Learning Centers. All reservations are made on a first-come, first-served basis,
The examination fees for this exam year are as follows: and walk-in examinees are prohibited. Reservations for both
EXAM SERIES MEMBER NON-MEMBER the Fall and Spring testing windows will be taken as detailed
FEE FEE in the following chart:
Northern
CPP-N America $380.00 $550.00 TESTING SESSION BEGINS TAKING STOPS TAKING
Americas
RESERVATIONS RESERVATIONS
APA Learning
CPP-LC $380.00 $550.00 Fall 2021 7/7/2021 10/8/2021
Centers
Military CPP-INTL/MILITARY $380.00 $550.00 Spring 2022 1/11/2022 4/15/2022
EMEA, APAC, Testing center times and locations are subject to change.
and Southern CPP-INTL/MILITARY $435.00 $595.00
Americas
SOUTHERN AMERICAS, EMEA, APAC, AND MILITARY
REGIONS
OnVUE Online
CPP-Remote $380.00 $550.00 Reservations are taken throughout the year. All reservations
Proctored
are made on a first-come, first served basis, and walk-in
Examination related fees are subject to change without notice.
examinees are prohibited.
Please note that online proctored testing is available only for North
America residents. ONLINE PROCTORED EXAM
If testing in the U.S. or U.S. territories, Canada, or Mexico Online proctored testing is available only for North America
during the testing window, please select CPP-N America. If residents. Reservations are available 24/7 for scheduling and
you are taking your exam at an APA Learning Center, please testing during the North America exam windows. See Online
select CPP-LC. If testing anywhere else, including military Proctored Exam on page 7 for details.
locations, please select CPP-INTL/MILITARY. If you are taking MAKE AN EXAM RESERVATION
the Online Proctored exam during the testing window, please
Candidates can make an exam reservation online or by
select CPP-Remote. Candidates are responsible for paying the
phone. Before going online to make a reservation, be
examination fee once an application has been made.
prepared with the email approving your CPP Examination Ap-
Review the Change/Cancel section of this handbook for plication and confirmation of payment from the APA.
information on changing or canceling a reservation without 1. To make an online reservation, click the "Schedule Online"
penalty. Fees are non-transferable and non-refundable except link in the CPP Examination Application email approval from
as noted in the Change/Cancel Policy section. the APA (go to www.americanpayroll.org/certdashboard to
Military candidates may be eligible for assistance with CPP check your application status).
exam costs through the GI Bill. File a claim using the VA 2. You may be asked to verify your identity at the
FORM 22-0830 along with your official CPP score report. Visit Pearson VUE site. Please log in with your APA ID or username
the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs website (www.ben- and password.
efits.va.gov/gibill) for full details on how to apply for benefits.
• Double-check that all contact information is current and
accurate. If information must change, you must make
those changes at the APA website or call APA Customer
Service at (210) 224-6406.
continues next page
5• When registering for an exam, candidates MUST verify PHONE NUMBERS FOR MAKING RESERVATIONS
that they are using their legal First and Last name as it ap- Testing in the Northern and Southern Americas Regions or
pears on the primary ID that will be used for admittance to Online Proctored
the examination area at the testing center. Candidates who
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 7:00 a.m. – 7:00 p.m. CT;
do not register with their legal name, as it appears on the
closed on local holidays.
primary ID, will not be admitted to take the exam and they
will forfeit all paid fees (see Acceptable Forms of Candidate Call Pearson VUE at (800) 470-8757 at least twenty-four
Identification). To change your name, call APA Customer (24) hours before the desired examination date to make an
Service at (210) 224-6406. examination reservation.
• To obtain your APA Identification Number, please contact Details are subject to change, reference the website for cur-
APA Customer Service at (210) 224-6406 or email apa@ rent numbers and hours
americanpayroll.org.
Testing in the Europe, Middle East, or Africa (EMEA)
3. After you have double-checked your contact info and legal Regions
name, please double-check that you are scheduled for the
Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. CET;
appropriate exam (CPP-N America or CPP-INTL/MILITARY
closed on local holidays.
or CPP-REMOTE). If you are scheduled for the wrong exam,
please call APA Customer Service at (210) 224-6406. Call Pearson VUE at the appropriate number (found at: www.
pearsonvue.com/apa/contact) (Press Option 2 to schedule
4. You will then see a list of available testing center locations,
an exam.) at least twenty-four (24) hours before the desired
from which you will be prompted to select a testing center
examination date to make an examination reservation.
location and the date and time of the examination you prefer.
You may cancel your online request at any time before you Testing in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) Region
submit the request by selecting Cancel. Office Hours: Monday – Friday, 9:00 a.m. – 6:00 p.m. local
Once you have submitted your reservation, you will receive time for each country; closed on local holidays.
an email notification from Pearson VUE with confirmation Call Pearson VUE at the appropriate number (found at: www.
of the examination date, time, and location. Print out this pearsonvue.com/apa/contact) at least twenty-four (24) hours
confirmation and retain it for your records. You may also before the desired examination date to make an examination
print a copy of your registration as soon as you complete the reservation.
online reservation. If you are testing at one of APA's Learning Centers see APA
Online reservations must be made no less than twenty-four Learning Center Exam section for details.
(24) hours before the desired examination date. However, we
CHANGING/CANCELLING RESERVATIONS
suggest you make your reservation as soon as CPP exam testing
registration is available to ensure your preferred testing date, You may change or cancel an existing reservation online or by
time, and location are available. To check what test centers are calling Pearson VUE. Log in at www.pearsonvue.com/apa and
near you, go to www.pearsonvue.com/apa and select “Locate select "View Schedule," which will enable you to change or
a Testing Center.” cancel it as needed. You will receive an email notification from
Pearson VUE of all changes or cancellations. Please note that
Before calling to make a reservation, be prepared with the test center reservations must be changed or cancelled at least
following information: 96 hours before the scheduled examination date, as detailed
1. The email approving your CPP Exam Application and con- in Change/Cancel Policy section.
firmation of payment
Do NOT contact Pearson VUE’s local testing center if you need
2. Your full legal First and Last name (as listed on your pri- to cancel or reschedule an exam appointment. To change or
mary ID) and street address, email address, and daytime cancel a test center reservation, at least 96 hours before the
telephone number
scheduled examination date, candidates should log in online
3. Exam Series name or call Pearson VUE at the appropriate number found at
4. Preferred testing location www.pearsonvue.com/apa.
5. Preferred examination date Online proctored exams must be canceled or changed before
To find a testing center location, go to the appointment time. To modify an exam appointment, login
www.pearsonvue.com/apa and select “Locate a Testing Cen- to www.americanpayroll.org/certdashboard
ter.” A Pearson VUE representative will help you select an ex-
amination date and location, provide directions to the testing
center you choose, and answer questions regarding the ex-
amination. If you provide an email address, your confirmation
notice will be emailed to you within twenty-four (24) hours.
6APA LEARNING CENTER EXAM Candidates must review the OnVUE Frequently Asked Ques-
Attendees of APA’s Payroll 201: Payroll Administration Certificate tions (www.americanpayroll.org/exam), the Step-by-Step Guide
Program held at APA’s Learning Centers in Las Vegas and San to Online Testing, and the APA OnVUE exam delivery page for
Antonio will have the opportunity to take the CPP examination information regarding system requirements and policies.
on Friday afternoon at the conclusion of the course. Only Pay- Eligibility and application requirements, and other policies
roll 201: Payroll Administration Certificate Program registrants stated in the Candidate Handbook, still apply.
will be allowed to take the CPP examination.
To test online effectively, candidates must meet the system
The Payroll 201: Payroll Administration Certificate Program requirements prior to scheduling the exam. If you choose
should not be considered the only method of study for to test at home or at your office, you will need to commit
the CPP exam. Please see Bibliography/CPP Exam Prepa- to the online delivery option. Candidates may retake the
ration for additional study options. Successful candidates examination as often as necessary, but only once in each test-
have indicated that they engaged in a minimum of three (3) ing window. For example, those who fail an examination in
months of preparation before taking the exam. APA’s Learn- Spring 2021 must wait until Fall 2021 to retest.
ing Center testing opportunities are recommended only for
This online option is not a replacement to the physical test
candidates who have already studied, are ready to take the
center delivery, but an additional test delivery option to
exam, and are using the course for review purposes only.
complement the brick and mortar Pearson VUE Test Centers.
CANDIDATES WILL BE TESTED ON EFFECTIVE U.S. FEDERAL RULES The online proctoring platform is a very similar experience to
AND REGULATIONS AS FOLLOWS
a physical test center. Candidates will still need to fulfill any
Exam Dates U.S. Federal Rules and Regulations eligibility requirements, check-in prior to starting the exam,
that apply to payroll processing on
sign the candidate NDA agreement, go through an exam
9/5/2020 - 9/10/2021 January 1, 2020 tutorial, complete the exam, submit an optional end of-exam
9/11/2021 - 9/9/2022 January 1, 2021 survey and receive results report.
Note: Changes made after the appropriate cut-off date are NOT Candidates should review all policies as stated in the Candi-
included in the exam, even if they are retroactive to January 1st.
date Handbook and on APA’s website at www.americanpay-
Only registrants of the Payroll Administration Certificate roll.org.
Program Learning Center course will be allowed to take
the CPP exam at the conclusion of the course. Walk-in Following are a selection of Frequently Asked Questions, for
registrations for the exam are not allowed. The exam fee the full FAQ list please visit www.americanpayroll.org/exam.
is separate from the Learning Center course fee. Do NOT Is Online Testing Available 24/7 on-demand?
contact Pearson VUE to make a reservation for testing at an
Online testing is available 24/7 for scheduling and testing
APA Learning Center. The exam fee can be paid online with
during the North America exam windows. To get started,
course registration or separately prior to the course. However,
purchase the online proctored exam and submit the CPP ap-
advance registration of at least one (1) week is required for all
plication. You will then be able to browse the calendar and
APA Learning Center exam registrations. Course registrants
select a time and date to schedule your exam through your
will be provided additional instructions via email at the time
Certification Dashboard at www.americanpayroll.org/cert-
of purchase regarding registering for the exam.
dashboard.
All other candidate requirements remain the same. Candidates
must submit their CPP examination application to the APA. Do I use my own technology?
We recommend that you use your personal or home comput-
ONLINE PROCTORED EXAM er to take the online exam. Many company-issued computers
NORTHERN AMERICAS have security measures or firewalls that may interfere with
exam delivery. If you must use a company-issued computer,
North America residents can now register and test using please check with your IT administrator in advance to ensure
OnVUE, PearsonVUE’s online proctoring exam delivery sys- you have proper permissions. It is the candidate’s responsi-
tem, from the comfort of their home or office. Visit https:// bility to verify that the technology they use is working and
home.pearsonvue.com/apa/onvue to review requirements, compliant with all requirements.
perform a system test, schedule your test, and to check in for
the exam. Do not take your exam in a setting with a corporate firewall
(including VPN). A personal computer is recommended.
If you are testing online using OnVUE, please be sure to login
Work computers generally carry a greater risk of delivery
with your APA username and password at least 3 days prior
failure due to security restrictions. A wired network connec-
to your scheduled exam appointment and verify that your
tion is also recommended to avoid connectivity issues.
login credentials are valid and active.
Please note that you must have permissions on your com-
If you need login assistance, call APA Customer Service at
puter to download the necessary OnVUE software. If your
(210) 224-6406. Office hours are Monday-Friday, 7:00 a.m.-
computer is locked by your office administrator, please con-
5:00 p.m. CT; closed on local holidays.
continues next page
7tact them PRIOR TO THE EXAM to determine if you are able What are the OnVUE policies and procedures?
to download the OnVUE software, prior to purchasing the To maintain the integrity of proctored exams in an online
OnVUE exam. setting, specific policies, practices and procedures are strictly
If an interruption occurs during an OnVUE online proctored enforced. By registering for the OnVUE online proctored
exam as a result of problems caused by a candidate’s com- exam, you agree to the Policies as stated in this Candidate
puter or network connection, the test will be terminated, and Handbook and on the APA website at www.americanpayroll.
the exam fee forfeited. org/exam and https://home.pearsonvue.com/apa/onvue.
Candidates who violate any of these policies will not be
What are the technical/system requirements to use OnVUE permitted to finish the examination and will have their exam
online proctoring? terminated, forfeiting their examination fee. Certification will
There are minimum technical requirements, such as your be denied or revoked for any of the reasons stated in the
computer operating system and internet speed that must Candidate Handbook, including violation of testing proce-
be met to take an online exam. Details can be found on the dures.
APA OnVUE webpage (https://home.pearsonvue.com/apa/ How do I change/reschedule/cancel an online proctored
onvue). All tablets are strictly forbidden. Online exams cannot exam?
be taken on a smart phone.
Online proctored exams must be canceled or changed before
Can I use scratch paper or a calculator when taking an online the appointment time. There is no cancellation fee for online
proctored exam? proctored exams. Failure to cancel or reschedule before your
Physical scratch paper and physical calculators are not appointment time or failure to appear for your appointment
allowed, but virtual tools are made available through the will result in the forfeiture of your exam fee. To modify an
OnVUE platform. Prior to the start of the exam, candidates exam appointment, login to www.americanpayroll.org/cert-
will be asked to take a tutorial that explains the use of the dashboard.
virtual calculator and virtual whiteboard. Helpful Links for Online Proctored Testing
Calculators: While you cannot use your physical calculator, • Step-by-Step Guide to Online Testing:
you can use the virtual calculator that is built into the test- https://info.americanpayroll.org/pdfs/certification/Step-
ing platform. This virtual calculator is built into the OnVUE by-Step-Guide.pdf
platform and can be used during the exam. • Watch a 10-minute webinar about online testing require-
ments:
Scratch paper: While you cannot use physical paper and pen, https://www.americanpayroll.org/exam
you can use the virtual scratch paper, also known as a virtual
• Watch a 1-minute video about the online proctoring
whiteboard, that is built into the testing platform. experience:
Access a practice online whiteboard here (home.pearsonvue. https://www.youtube.com/
com/onvue/whiteboard#practice-whiteboard). watch?v=lmRrxzedal8&feature=emb_title
• Perform a System Test:
Will I still receive access to the exam Supplements? https://home.pearsonvue.com/apa/onvue
Yes. The examination supplements are accessible through • Manage your exam appointment:
the online testing platform. These supplements are a repro- https://www.americanpayroll.org/certdashboard
duction of all necessary tables needed for the calculation of
certain exam questions. See Exam Supplements section for SPECIAL EXAM REQUESTS
the full list.
NON-SATURDAY EXAMS
Can I request special accommodations for an online proc- Candidates who for religious reasons cannot take the CPP
tored exam? examination that is offered at a testing center only on
At this time, special accommodations are not offered for on- Saturdays may request a non-Saturday examination date.
line proctored exams. Candidates who need to request special Requests must be made at least ten (10) days before the
accommodations should plan to test at a Pearson VUE test desired examination date. Such a request must be made
center where accommodation needs can be met. in writing on official stationery by the candidate’s religious
advisor and faxed to (610) 617-9397 or mailed to:
When and how will I receive my test results? Pearson VUE
All candidates will receive their Pass or Fail result on Attention: Global Accessibility & Disability Services
the screen immediately upon completion of the exam. 5601 Green Valley Drive
Shortly after the exam, you will also receive an email from Bloomington, MN 55437
Pearson VUE with instructions to access and print a copy Non-Saturday examinations are available only on a
of your web-based score report. Please note that the score pre-arranged basis.
report format for OnVUE online proctored examinations may
vary from the score report received at a testing center.
8ADA ACCOMMODATIONS
All accommodation requests must be submitted at least ten
ATTAINMENT OF
(10) days PRIOR to scheduling an examination (failure to CERTIFICATION
do so may result in cancellation fees; see Cancellation and
Rescheduling). If an examinee passes the CPP Examination and accepts the
Pearson VUE complies with the provisions of the Americans APA Code of Ethics (see APA Code of Ethics), they will be en-
with Disabilities Act as amended. The purpose of titled to order a certificate and lapel pin, claim a digital badge,
accommodations is to provide candidates with full access to and use the designation “CPP” (Certified Payroll Professional)
the test. Accommodations are not a guarantee of improved after their name. If a CPP previously attained the Fundamental
performance or test completion. Pearson VUE provides Payroll Certification (FPC), only the CPP designation may be
reasonable and appropriate accommodations to individuals used and recertified. New CPPs will receive email notification
with documented disabilities who demonstrate a need for of how to obtain a CPP certificate and lapel pin and claim their
accommodations. digital badge.
Test accommodations may include things such as: To learn more about how to share your achievement, visit:
• A separate testing room https://www.americanpayroll.org/education-certification/cer-
• Extra testing time tification/certified-payroll-professional-(cpp)#scribes
• A Reader or Recorder, for individuals with mobility or vision
impairments and who cannot read or write on their own DENIAL OR REVOCATION OF
Test accommodations are individualized and considered CERTIFICATION*
on a case-by-case basis. All candidates who are requesting Certification will be denied or revoked for any of the follow-
accommodations because of a disability must provide ing reasons:
appropriate documentation of their condition and how it is • Falsification of an application
expected to affect their ability to take the test under standard • Misrepresentation
conditions. This may include: • Violation of testing procedures
• Supporting documentation from the professional who • Failure to pass the examination
diagnosed the condition, including the credentials that • Nonconformity to the APA Code of Ethics
qualify the professional to make this diagnosis • Failure to provide required documentation and/or fees for
recertification
• A description of past accommodations the candidate has
• Conviction of a crime punishable by imprisonment for
received
more than one year
To begin, go to pearsonvue.com/accommodations, and
then select your test program sponsor from the alphabetized
*Note: Denials or revocations of certification may be
list. Candidates who have additional questions concerning
appealed to the APA Certification Board’s CPP Committee
test accommodations may contact the ADA Coordinator by
and the Certification Review Panel.
emailing accommodationspearsonvue@pearson.com.
At this time, special accommodations are not offered for on-
line proctored exams. Candidates who need to request special APA MEMBERSHIP
accommodations should plan to test at a Pearson VUE test APA membership is not required to attain the CPP
center where accommodation needs can be met. designation. However, Recertification Credit Hours for APA
Professional Membership are granted to certified members.
See Recertification Credit Hours for APA Professional Mem-
bership.
9EXAM DAY • U.S. Department of State Driver's License
• U.S. Learner’s Permit (plastic card only with photo and
signature)
WHAT TO BRING • National/State/Country Identification Card
REQUIRED MATERIALS • Passport (from country of residence)
All candidates are required to bring identification that is • Passport card (from country of residence)
deemed acceptable, as listed under Acceptable Forms of • Military ID
Candidate Identification, on the day of examination along • Military ID for spouses and dependents
with the following items listed below. • Permanent Resident Card or Alien Registration Card (Green
Candidates must bring the following to the testing center on Card)
examination day: SECONDARY ID (WITH SIGNATURE, NOT EXPIRED)
• Two forms of identification (as listed below) • U.S. Social Security Card
• Proof of name change (if your name has changed since the
• Debit (ATM) or Credit Card
time of reservation) in the form of a marriage certificate,
etc. • Any form of ID on the Primary ID list
• Military candidates must present their military ID to enter If the ID presented has an embedded signature that is not
military testing locations visible (microchip), or is difficult or impossible to read, the
candidate must present another form of identification from
Note: If candidates do not bring the required items, they the primary or secondary list that contains a visible signature.
will be denied admission to the examination, will be con- Pearson VUE does not recognize grace periods. For example,
sidered absent, and will forfeit the examination fee. if a candidate’s driver’s license expired yesterday and the state
allows a 30-day grace period for renewing the ID, the ID is
considered to be expired.
ACCEPTABLE FORMS OF CANDIDATE
IDENTIFICATION SUGGESTED MATERIALS
Candidates must present two (2) forms of current signature • For examinations at a test center, it is recommended but
identification. The primary identification must be government not required to bring a battery operated, silent calculator,
issued and photo bearing with a signature, and the secondary as detailed under Electronic Devices. A calculator may be
identification must contain a valid signature. Both the available upon request at the test center.
primary and the secondary ID’s must be original documents; • For online proctored examinations, physical scratch paper
copies are not accepted. Any identification not in English is and physical calculators are not allowed, but virtual tools
acceptable as long as the candidate is testing in the country are made available through the OnVUE platform.
where the identification was originally issued. The name on
• Direct Translation Only Dictionaries that do not include
the reservation must match the name on the ID’s provided
definitions are permitted in the testing centers only, but not
(see chart below). If the reservation and ID’s do not match,
during online proctored testing.
the candidate will be turned away and will forfeit the
examination fee. (Middle names are not required, but legal EXAM PROCEDURES
first and last name must match the IDs provided.)
Candidates should report to the testing center or check-in
NAME ON REGISTRATION NAME ON ID ACCEPTABLE for the online proctored exams at least 30 minutes before
Sally Smith-Sample Sally Smith Yes the scheduled examination time. Candidates must first check
Sally Smith Sally Sample No
in with the test administrator and present identification and
other required items. For security purposes, Pearson VUE will
J. P. Doe John P. Doe No capture each candidate’s digital signature, photograph, and
Jack Doe John Doe No palm vein recognition (if used at the local test center) upon
David T. Johnson David Tyler Johnson Yes check-in.
David Johnson David Tyler Johnson Yes Prior to the exam, candidates are required to review and sign
a Candidate Rules Agreement. If a candidate does not com-
If your identification does not fall under any of these ply with the Candidate Rules Agreement and/or is suspected
examples and you are unsure if it will be allowed, please con- of cheating or tampering with the examination, the candidate
tact Pearson VUE at: will be reported as such, and the appropriate action will be
http://www.pearsonvue.com/apa/contact taken. The examination fee will not be refunded, the exam
PRIMARY ID (WITH PHOTOGRAPH AND SIGNATURE, NOT may be determined invalid, and/or the APA may take further
EXPIRED) action such as denial or revocation of certification.
• Government-issued Driver's License Examinations are administered electronically, and include a
continues next page
10brief tutorial on the examination computer, allowing time • Candidates may not bring a pen or writing tool to the
to become familiar with the electronic supplements con- examination.
taining the tables needed to complete the exam. The time • Test center candidates may receive scratch paper and pen/
spent during check-in and on this tutorial will not reduce the pencil, which will be collected at the end of the examina-
four (4) hours allotted for the examination. The examination tion.
administrators will answer questions during check-in and • Online proctored exams, are not allowed physical scratch
tutorial, but be aware that they are not familiar with the paper and physical calculators, but virtual tools are made
content of the examination nor with APA’s certification available through the exam software.
requirements, and therefore will not give advice regarding
• Candidates must store all personal items in a secure area
either one. Pearson VUE administers numerous other exams so
as indicated by the administrator, or another secure area
please be aware that other candidates testing may not be tak-
outside the testing area preferred by the candidate.
ing an APA examination and their exam time will vary.
• All electronic devices must be turned off before storing
Candidates may begin the examination once familiar with them in a secure area. The testing center is not responsible
the examination software. The examination begins the for lost, stolen, or misplaced personal items.
moment the first question is displayed on the screen. Four (4)
• Earplugs are available at each testing center. Please ask for
hours are allotted to take the examination, after which the
them before the examination begins. Ear plugs and head-
examination software will automatically turn off. Be sure to
phones are not allowed during online proctored examina-
read all the text on the computer screen thoroughly so as not
tions.
to end the exam prematurely. Candidates who prematurely
end their exam are not entitled to a refund or to retake the • To complete some exam questions, an electronic Examination
exam without paying the exam fee again. Once the exam Supplement will be available within the exam software.
is finished, alert the administrator. The examination will be ELECTRONIC DEVICES
scored immediately, and candidates will see their exam results
• Test Centers ONLY: Candidates are encouraged, but
immediately on the screen. Test Center candidates will receive
not required, to use a calculator during the examination.
an official score report on-site, prior to leaving the test center.
Candidates may bring their own calculator or request
Online proctored exam candidates will be able to print their
one from the Test Center Administrator. The calculator
official score report within 24 hours after the examination.
must be a silent, non-printing, battery- or solar-powered
calculator. Programmable calculators or calculators with
WEATHER DELAYS AND CANCELLATIONS alphabetic key pads from A-Z are not acceptable and will
If severe weather or other disaster causes the testing center to be confiscated. Calculators may not be shared with other
be inaccessible or unsafe, the examination may be delayed or candidates. Calculator malfunctions are not grounds for
cancelled. Candidates will be notified directly by Pearson VUE requesting extra time or challenging examination results.
in the event of delays and cancellations during severe weather. Battery-operated calculators are recommended, since
Candidates may reschedule an examination cancelled due to lighting at the testing centers may not be bright enough to
bad weather or other disaster as soon as the testing center activate solar calculators. (If needed, extra batteries may be
becomes available and without additional charge by calling stored in the lockers.)
Pearson VUE at the appropriate Customer Service number. • Online Proctored exams ONLY: Physical scratch paper and
physical calculators are not allowed, but virtual tools are
TESTING POLICIES made available through the exam software. Prior to the
start of the exam, candidates will be asked to take a tutorial
The following policies are observed at each testing center and
that explains the use of the virtual calculator and virtual
online proctored examinations. Candidates who violate any
whiteboard.
of these policies will not be permitted to finish the examina-
tion and will be dismissed from the test center/online exam, • Candidates may not bring smartphones, tablets, iPods, or
forfeiting their examination fee. any other electronic or communication devices into the
examination area. If you observe an examinee using any
STUDY AIDS of these during the examination, immediately inform the
• Candidates may not have valuables or personal belongings administrator.
such as wallets, purses, firearms or other weapons, hats, INDIVIDUAL BREAKS
bags, coats, books, electronic devices, or notes or other
• Test Centers ONLY: No group breaks are scheduled during
reference materials, other than calculators (see Electronic
the examination. Candidates will be permitted to take in-
Devices below), in the examination area.
dividual breaks at the administrator’s discretion, but no ad-
• Most, but not all, testing centers have a secured ditional time will be allotted to complete the examination
storage area. However, Pearson VUE and the APA (the clock will not stop during a break). If candidates are
are not responsible for lost, stolen, or misplaced permitted by the administrator to leave the examination
personal items. room for a break, they will be escorted while outside of the
continues next page
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