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Practitioner Candidate Guide

September 2022

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Certification Eligibility Requirements

Graduates of an orthotics and prosthetics master’s degree program are eligible to take the Combined O&P Written Multiple Choice Exam prior to starting a clinical residency.

To become eligible to take the single discipline Written Simulation and CPM certification exams, you must meet the following requirements:

Education Requirements

A master’s degree in orthotics and prosthetics from a program accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Allied Health Education Programs (CAAHEP).

Foreign Education

If you have received your education outside the U.S., you must have your education evaluated by the World Education Services (WES). WES is a professional education evaluation service that confirms foreign education programs’ equivalence to a US master's degree in O&P.

Clinical Experience

You must obtain your clinical experience by completing an NCOPE accredited residency program. This is a 12-month per discipline, or an 18-month dual discipline, supervised program in a comprehensive orthotic and/or prosthetic accredited facility.

The NCOPE accredited residency program allows you to acquire practical clinical training in orthotics and/or prosthetics which is part of the overall education required for ABC Orthotist and/or Prosthetist Certification.

Extension of Credential (CPO)

If you are seeking to extend your credential to CPO (certification in the second discipline), you must meet the education and experience requirements in effect when you apply for the second discipline. Additionally, you must be in good standing with your primary certification. No exceptions will be made.