Certification

Eligibility

To become a PPA you must have experience supporting at least 10 families in-person through pregnancy, birth, and postpartum. (You may attend a PPA training regardless of prior experience).

Your application for certification must be received within 6 months of attending your training. 

Process

• Attend our 2-day Advocacy Training (co-hosted by Intentional Birth)
• Study materials from your training, from the PPAC Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, and from any assigned online modules
• Submit your application for certification, along with your $50 testing fee
• Sit for written and oral exams (conducted virtually)

Examination

The PPAC exam takes place in two parts, both accomplished virtually. Once you have submitted your certification application, you will receive a link to take your written test, and a link to book your 15-minute oral examination.

• The written test will assess your knowledge of the PPA’s role, the PPAC Codes, and the principles, tools, and skills learned in your training.
• The oral test, conducted by one of the PPAC leadership, will include a simulation of a birth-room advocacy scenario, wherein you demonstrate your ability to speak on behalf of your client’s rights, needs, or values.

Recertification

PPAs must renew their certification every 3 years. Recertification costs $300, and PPAs may either choose to:

• Attend a full day of simulation (day 2 of the official PPA training) OR
• Review assigned modules and sit again for the two-part PPAC examination
• Additionally recertifying PPAs will submit a self-assessment letter, documenting their experience and/or ongoing education