Home Compare ADC vs CPCE

Exam Comparison

ADC vs CPCE

Comparing the Alcohol and Drug Counselor Exam and the Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination. Both fall under Behavioral Health. Both are covered by the Behavioral Health Exam Prep app.

ADC Overview → CPCE Overview →

ADC vs CPCE: At a Glance

Detail ADC CPCE
Full Name Alcohol and Drug Counselor Exam Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination
Governing Body IC&RC CCE
Number of Questions 150 160
Time Limit 3 hours 4 hours
Passing Score Scaled (varies by jurisdiction, approx. 75%) Set by individual program
Exam Fee $195 USD Varies by institution
Category Behavioral Health Behavioral Health
C3RT App Behavioral Health Exam Prep Behavioral Health Exam Prep

Content Areas Compared

ADC Domains

  • Screening, Assessment, and Engagement
  • Treatment Planning, Collaboration, and Referral
  • Counseling
  • Professional and Ethical Practice

CPCE Domains

  • Professional Counseling Orientation and Ethical Practice
  • Social and Cultural Diversity
  • Human Growth and Development
  • Career Development
  • Counseling and Helping Relationships
  • Group Counseling and Group Work
  • Assessment and Testing
  • Research and Program Evaluation

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between ADC and CPCE?

The ADC (Alcohol and Drug Counselor Exam) is administered by IC&RC and consists of 150 questions. The CPCE (Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination) is administered by CCE and consists of 160 questions. Both are Behavioral Health credentials.

Can I take both the ADC and the CPCE?

Yes, the ADC and CPCE are separate credentials with separate eligibility requirements. Each is awarded by a different governing body (IC&RC and CCE respectively). Check the official requirements for each before registering.

Which should I take first, ADC or CPCE?

The right sequence depends on your career goals and current credentials. The ADC is offered by IC&RC with a passing score of Scaled (varies by jurisdiction, approx. 75%), while the CPCE is offered by CCE with a passing score of Set by individual program. Review the eligibility requirements for each with the respective governing bodies before deciding.

Does C3RT cover both the ADC and the CPCE?

Yes. Both the ADC and CPCE are covered in the Behavioral Health Exam Prep app for iOS and Mac.

The Alcohol and Drug Counselor Exam (ADC) is administered by IC&RC. The Counselor Preparation Comprehensive Examination (CPCE) is administered by CCE. C3RT is not affiliated with either organisation. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective owners.