APTD Eligibility
Validating your foundational talent development knowledge and skills
Individuals pursuing the APTD certification must meet program eligibility requirements and pass a two-hour standardized exam.
Recertification is required every three years with proven professional development activities in order to maintain the designation.
To be eligible for the APTD program, candidates must meet all criteria for ONE of the pathways below:
Work experience is defined as on-the-job experience, working with adults, in the talent development field or related discipline (human resources, higher education or similar) as described in the Developing Professional Capability and/or Impacting Organizational Capability domains of the Talent Development Capability Model.
Professional development is any educational activity with content that is defined within the Building Professional Capability and the Impacting Organizational Capability domains of the Talent Development Capability Model. Content from concepts found in the Developing Personal Capability domain are not applicable for eligibility.
ATD’s preparation courses for the APTD can be reported for a total of 20 hours of professional development eligibility.
Learn more about acceptable professional development and free and inexpensive offerings in this helpful guide and use the APTD Eligibility Worksheet to self-determine eligibility before applying.
In-person, virtual, or self-paced courses offered through ATD or other education providers- Pre-Approved Professional Development for Certification
Education sessions at TD events like conferences and workshops, including Chapter and Member Network events
View the ATD micro course library (free access for ATD Professional Plus members)
Courses and certificate programs offered by higher education
Webinars & webcasts
For full details on APTD eligibility, see the APTD Certification Handbook.
Work experience is defined as on-the-job experience, working with adults, in the talent development field or related discipline (human resources, higher education or similar) as described in the Developing Professional Capability and/or Impacting Organizational Capability domains of the Talent Development Capability Model.
ATD Master Trainer or ATD Master Instructional Designer or ATD Master Performance Consultant
For full details on APTD eligibility, see the APTD Certification Handbook.
Eligibility Requirements Explained
APTD Eligibility Resources and Support