ACE FAQ Exam Registrations

Q: How can I register for the ACE exam?

For your convenience, you can register for computer-based testing online (ACE Personal Trainer and Group Fitness Instructor certifications only) or by phone. Whatever format you choose to register, you must hold a current CPR and AED certificate, and it must not expire before your testing date.

Search online to find a testing location in your area by visiting the ACE exam registration site. 

Q: How much does it cost to take the exam?

Q: What are the eligibility requirements to take the exam?

While each of our certification exams have similar eligibility requirements, they do differ slightly. Please see a complete list below.

ACE Personal Trainer, Group Fitness Instructor and ACE Health Coach

• Be at least 18 years old.
• Have completed high school diploma (or the equivalent).
• Hold a current CPR and AED certification with a live skills check*
• Present a current government-issued photo ID with signature (driver's license, passport, military ID)

Medical Exercise Specialist

• Be at least 18 years old and hold a current adult CPR and AED certificate including with hands on (in-person or virtual) skills check*
• SUBMIT PROOF of:
  • A bachelor's degree in exercise science or a related field at the time of exam registration.
  • 500 completed hours of work experience designing and implementing exercise programs for apparently healthy or high-risk individuals, as documented by a qualified professional.
  • Present a current government-issued photo ID with signature (driver's license, passport, military ID) on exam day.

* Candidates taking computer-based ACE exam must hold a current CPR / AED certificate at the time of registration, and it cannot expire prior to the exam date. Online CPR/AED courses will not be accepted.

Q: What are the benefits of taking a computer-based exam?

The computer-based format is administered at more than 500 testing centers across the U.S. and Canada. It also allows candidates to receive their results immediately upon completion of the exam.

Q: Where can I take a computer-based exam?

Computer-based ACE certification exams are offered at more than 500 locations across the U.S. and Canada. To find a testing location in your area, please visit the ACE exam registration site.

Q: When can I register for a computer-based exam?

Different testing locations have different standards when it comes to how early you can register for a CBT exam. For most locations, the latest you can register for an exam is 10 days prior to your chosen exam date. Please keep in mind that date frequency and availability may differ from site to site.

Q: What if I need special accommodations (ADA)?

Candidates with special testing needs will be accommodated as best as possible. Given the limitations of a third-party contracted computer-testing facility, accommodations are restricted. Please contact the exam registration department for more information at (888) 825-3636 or via e-mail at examregistration@ACEfitness.org.

Q: What happens after I register for the exam?

Once your examination date, site and time have been approved, you’ll receive an e-mail notification instructing you to download and print your admission ticket. Exam day rules and site information will be located on this ticket. Please make sure to bring your admission ticket for entry on exam day, along with an official government-issued ID with photo and signature. The name on your ID must match the name on your exam registration. You will not be able to sit for the exam otherwise.

Q: What if I need to reschedule?

You may reschedule your ACE exam up to 11:59 p.m. PST the day before your exam date for a rescheduling fee of $149.  Candidates that “no show” and do not reschedule prior to that deadline will be subject to first-time exam fees for a new testing date.

To reschedule, login to your MyACE account, select “My Exam Information” and then “Reschedule My Exam.”  Proceed through the online registration process, paying the fee upon check out. You’re only eligible to reschedule once, and you may only reschedule for another computer-based exam. Once your new desired examination date, site and time have been approved, you’ll receive an e-mail notification instructing you to download and print your admission ticket.

Exceptions to the reschedule fee will be considered on a case-by-case basis for documented serious illness, bereavement, natural disasters and other emergencies. In these instances, candidates must contact ACE Exam Registration prior to the day of their exam and provide supporting documentation. Candidates who have requested special accommodations will need to contact the ACE Exam Registration either via e-mail at examregistration@ACEfitness.org or by calling (888) 825-3636 to reschedule.

Q: What if I need to cancel?

Cancellations must be made outside of 30 days from your confirmed testing date for a 50% refund of the exam fee paid.  Refunds cannot be provided once an exam voucher has been redeemed or for exams that have already been rescheduled.  If you registered for your exam within 30 days of the testing date, your only option is to reschedule as cancellations within 30 days will not be refunded.