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Exam Overview
The National Certified Addiction Counselor (NCAC) Exams – Levels I and II are credentialing assessments offered by NAADAC: The Association for Addiction Professionals. These exams serve as a national benchmark for professional competency in the field of addiction counseling.
Whether you're pursuing entry-level certification (NCAC I) or demonstrating advanced expertise (NCAC II), passing these exams confirms your readiness to support individuals and communities impacted by substance use disorders.
Purpose of the Exams
The NCAC exams:
- Establish professional credibility in the addiction counseling field
- Ensure consistent, evidence-based practice nationwide
- Meet licensing or certification requirements in many state-level boards
- Reflect a commitment to ethical standards and client care
Administered By
The exams are developed and administered by:
NAADAC – The Association for Addiction Professionals
in collaboration with the National Certification Commission for Addiction Professionals (NCC AP).
Eligibility Requirements
Each level has distinct eligibility criteria:
| Exam Level | Experience Required | Education | Supervised Training |
|---|---|---|---|
| NCAC I | 1 year full-time equivalent | High school diploma or GED | 270 hours addiction-specific education + 6 hours ethics |
| NCAC II | 3 years full-time equivalent | Bachelor’s degree in health/human services | 450 hours addiction-specific education + 6 hours ethics |
Note: Candidates must also pass a background check and sign a code of ethics.
Exam Pattern
Both NCAC I and NCAC II follow a similar format:
| Component | Details |
|---|---|
| Format | Multiple-Choice Questions (MCQs) |
| Number of Questions | 200 total questions (including 40 unscored pretest questions) |
| Scored Questions | 160 |
| Time Allotted | 3 hours (180 minutes) |
| Delivery Method | Computer-based at approved testing centers |
| Passing Score | Scaled score of 500 (range: 200–800) |
| Cost | Approx. $235–$300 (may vary by state or organization) |
Topics Covered
The exams are organized into four core content areas, equally relevant to clinical practice:
- The Pharmacology of Psychoactive Substances
- The Counseling Practice
- The Theoretical Base of Counseling
- The Professional Issues
Each domain is designed to test your knowledge of addiction, treatment strategies, clinical skills, ethical practices, and professional conduct.
Why This Exam Matters
Earning your NCAC I or NCAC II certification:
- Strengthens your resume and job opportunities
- Demonstrates your competence and ethical commitment
- Builds client and employer trust in your expertise
- Meets licensure requirements in many U.S. states
- Encourages lifelong professional development
Test Centers and Scheduling
- Exams are offered year-round through PSI Testing Centers across the U.S.
- Scheduling is flexible and done online once eligibility is confirmed by NAADAC.
This exam is a pivotal step in your career as an addiction counselor. The skills you demonstrate here not only reflect your academic preparation, but also your readiness to serve individuals and communities with professionalism and integrity.
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