AICP Certification is the only nationwide, independent verification of planners’ qualifications.
Earning AICP Certification signals that a planner has met rigorous academic and professional standards, demonstrated relevant work experience, and passed a comprehensive examination assessing essential planning knowledge and skills. For employers, AICP serves as an assurance of quality — a professional pre-screen that helps identify highly qualified candidates. In fact, the majority of planning employers report that AICP Certification is a factor in hiring decisions.
AICP-certified planners pledge to uphold the AICP Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct, demonstrating a clear commitment to integrity, accountability, and public service. Eighty-seven percent of planning employers say it is important that staff demonstrate allegiance to a code of ethics, and 97% of AICP members report that certification meets or exceeds expectations in affirming their ethical commitment. Through the Certification Maintenance program, certified planners continually pursue advanced professional education to remain current with emerging practices, policies, and innovations. Ninety-three percent of members say AICP helps them stay professionally up to date.
Beyond credentials, AICP strengthens careers and elevates the profession. Four out of five AICP members attribute career advancement to earning certification, noting expanded leadership opportunities and increased professional recognition. Certified planners frequently serve at-need communities, mentor students and emerging professionals, assess certification applications, and contribute to accreditation reviews — reinforcing AICP’s culture of service. Certification enhances professional stature among colleagues, elected officials, and the public, placing planners on equal footing with architects, engineers, and other credentialed professionals.
