Earn your FPC or CPP Certification

PAYO certification is a valuable, objective credential that verifies a specified level of knowledge, skills, and abilities in the payroll profession. Certification helps individuals demonstrate their payroll expertise, secure promotions, advance their careers, and enhance their standing within the profession.

It is advised that you download the FPC or CPP  handbook and review the complete details before taking the exam. Visit the visit the Certification section on the main PAYO website for more information.

Follow these 3 steps to guide you in earning your FPC or CPP Certification

Step 1: Determine Your Eligibility and Choose Your Certification

To apply for the FPC or CPP, you must meet all education and experience prerequisites outlined below:

Fundamental Payroll Certification (FPC)

  • FPC exam is designed specifically for fundamental–level payroll practitioner, sales professionals, consultants, and others who support the payroll industry.
  • No eligibility requirements
  • Visit here for FPC eligibility criteria.

Certified Payroll Professional (CPP)

  • CPP exam is designed for experienced payroll professionals, managers, and supervisors. It places emphasis on higher-level skills, including management and systems.
  • Must meet experience and education requirements. Visit here for CPP eligibility criteria.

Step 2: Apply and Schedule Your Exam

The FPC and CPP exams are offered during two test windows in North America, in the spring and fall each year.
Exam Testing Windows Registration
Fall:  Sept. 7 – Oct. 5, 2024 July 3 – Oct. 4, 2024
Spring:  Jan. 6 – April 19, 2025 Nov. 11, 2024 – April 18, 2025

For more details on how to apply for your exam, visit the Certification section on the main PAYO website.

For the full exam content outline, policies and procedures, refer to the FPC or CPP Candidate Handbook.

IMPORTANT NOTE: The suggested study time for the FPC exam is 2-3 months. The recommended study time for the CPP exam is 3-6 months. Be sure to allow sufficient time to prepare when you schedule your exam.

Step 3: Prepare to Pass with a PayTrain Program

PayTrain programs offer premium quality training with flexible course options.

PayTrain Fundamentals

FPC exam preparation

PayTrain Mastery

CPP exam preparation