The Examination for Professional Practice in Psychology (EPPP official site) is the cornerstone for aspiring psychologists seeking licensure across the United States and Canada. Recognized by every state regulatory board, this exam serves as the critical step ensuring candidates possess the foundational knowledge and competencies required for safe, ethical psychological practice.
For many, the EPPP is not only a test but a rite of passage signifying readiness to transition from graduate school into the professional realm.
The EPPP was developed by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB) to assess the minimum qualifications for independent practice. Its overarching goal is to protect public welfare by verifying that applicants have mastered the essential domains of psychological science and clinical principles.
The EPPP is divided into two parts for most jurisdictions as of recent updates:
A computer-administered, multiple-choice test evaluating foundational concepts, ethical principles, research methodology, and diagnostic criteria. This section consists of 225 questions (175 scored, 50 pretest), and test-takers have 4 hours and 15 minutes to complete it.
This is not required in all states. Part 2 assesses practice skills such as assessment, intervention, and professional ethics via scenario-based and applied questions. This section is designed to evaluate readiness for hands-on professional responsibilities and is currently being adopted by several states, with broader implementation expected by 2027.
All test questions are created and updated by subject matter experts, ensuring they reflect current practice standards. Candidates are encouraged to check their state board’s requirements, as some may only mandate completion of Part 1.
Qualifying for the EPPP requires a doctoral degree in psychology from an accredited program and the completion of supervised internship hours, with specific requirements varying by state. Once educational prerequisites are met, applicants must secure approval from their state board before registering through the Pearson VUE testing portal.
After approval, candidates select their testing site, schedule exam dates, and pay applicable fees, which typically range from $600 to $900 depending on jurisdiction and services selected. The exam itself is administered year-round at Pearson VUE testing centers, offering flexibility for busy professionals.
The EPPP Part 1 covers a broad spectrum of psychological practice areas, including:
Part 2 drills deeper into practical skills such as risk management, crisis intervention, interprofessional collaboration, and advanced assessment strategies.
Each domain is weighted based on nationwide practice analyses, and content distribution evolves with new research and feedback from licensees. This ensures relevancy and real-world applicability for exam-takers.
The landscape of the EPPP is dynamic, with key updates emerging in recent years. The integration of Part 2 to evaluate real-world skills reflects psychology’s expanding role within interdisciplinary health teams and a focus on public protection. By 2027, states may require successful completion of both knowledge and skills sections for full licensure.
Test question formats, content coverage, and competency standards are regularly reviewed, with psychometricians adjusting difficulty and discrimination levels to keep pace with evolving practice demands. Candidates should stay informed by consulting the ASPPB resource hub and their local licensing boards for current requirements.
Preparation is paramount to EPPP success. Most passing candidates leverage a variety of study materials, including printed study guides, video workshops, mock exams, and practice questions. Top-rated providers include:
Effective strategies involve taking regular practice tests to identify weaknesses, reviewing answer explanations, and simulating real test conditions to build stamina and confidence. Many courses offer domain quizzes, flashcards, and webinar workshops tailored to the exam structure. Candidates are encouraged to choose study paths best suited to their learning style and schedule.
Investing in professional study resources can be the key to joining the majority—over 75%—who pass the EPPP on their first attempt. Dedication, organization, and using quality prep materials increase readiness for the exam and the realities of clinical practice.
Securing psychologist licensure through the EPPP sets the bar for professional competency, directly impacting the quality of care provided across specialties like EMDR therapy. In New York, NY, Soho Integrative EMDR’s commitment to excellence echoes these standards—ensuring every client’s mental health journey is guided by well-trained, ethical clinicians.
Reach out to discover how licensure-backed EMDR therapy supports holistic healing and resilience while reflecting the rigor psychologists devote to public well-being.