The Exam & Process
A clear, stress-free path to certification. NFPT gives you everything you need to prepare, test, and start your fitness career with confidence — straightforward steps, no hidden fees, and support at every stage.
About the Exam
NCCA-Accredited Standards
Our CPT exam meets nationally recognized accreditation requirements, ensuring your certification is respected by gyms and employers across the country.
Instant Results
No waiting or wondering — you’ll receive your exam results immediately so you can plan your next steps with confidence.
Flexible Testing Options
Choose the testing environment that works best for you, with both in-person test centers and secure at-home exam options available.
Test Center or Remote Testing
800 multiple choice questions
Flexible Exam Scheduling
Closed book exam
2 hour time limit
750/1000 to pass
Instant test results
800 multiple choice questions
Everyone Started Where You Are Today
“I've been a certified personal trainer through NFPT since 2009. At the time I didn't realize that personal training was "my calling" or my next career so I wasn't comfortable with spending a ton of money to get certified compared to some of the big certification companies. Also at that time, I needed something that was convenient with my schedule when it came to studying for the exam. Fortunately, NFPT offers a great foundation to become a personal trainer. The company is true to their word and are not only affordable but have flexible options for preparing for your personal training exam that can fit your schedule. I've been fortunate to have run my own gym, publish articles, and continue my personal training business which all started with the initial certification through NFPT. Thank you NFPT for helping me get not only started but also continue to offer CEC's and other great services.”
“I started my career in fitness 17 years ago with NFPT Personal Trainer Certification. And since then I've been able to regularly and easily gain new insights and maintain my certification. Great organization from my experience.”
Test Centers
How NFPT Certification Works
01
Pick Your CPT Package
Choose the plan that fits your goals — Exam Only, Core, or Pro. Every option includes everything you need to get started.
02
Prep & Pass Your Exam
Study at your own pace with NFPT’s manuals, videos, and live webinars. Get instant results when you test — no waiting, no surprises.
03
Start Training & Earning
Land your first clients or gym position fast. NFPT’s community and ongoing support help you build a lasting fitness career.
Career pathway
A step-by-step roadmap to help you go from aspiring trainer to confident, certified professional — and stand out in the industry.
01
Explore Your Training Options
Learn what it takes to become a certified personal trainer and choose the NFPT package that fits your goals, learning style, and budget.
02
Prepare With Purpose
Use your study guides, quizzes, and prep tools to build real knowledge in anatomy, coaching, programming, and client safety.
03
Pass Your CPT Exam
Take the NCCA-accredited exam online or in a test center and get instant results so you can start planning your next move.
04
Start Training Clients
Use your certification to get hired at gyms nationwide or launch your own training business with confidence.
05
Grow Your Career With Advanced Skills
Continue your education through specialty courses, CEUs, and mentorship to expand your expertise and increase your earning potential.
Why Trainers Trust NFPT
Since 1988, NFPT has helped thousands of trainers turn their passion for fitness into a lifelong career. Our mission has always been simple — make certification accessible, credible, and supportive for everyone.
Our study materials and support system are designed to help you succeed the first time. With clear lessons, live prep sessions, and expert guidance, NFPT trainers consistently achieve top pass rates in the industry.
We proudly support those who serve. NFPT certification is approved for Military and GI Bill® funding, helping veterans and active service members build rewarding civilian careers in fitness.
NFPT’s certification meets the gold standard for professional excellence. Recognized by gyms and employers nationwide, our NCCA accreditation ensures your credential is respected wherever your career takes you.
Exam Prep Resources
Trainer Manual
Your complete guide to exercise science, anatomy, programming, and client coaching — written in clear, approachable language to help you master the fundamentals.
Online Chapter Quizzes
Reinforce your learning with practice questions that mirror the style and difficulty of the real exam, so you can test your readiness as you go.
Additional Study Tools
Access supportive resources designed to boost confidence, improve understanding, and help you stay on track throughout your prep journey.
* The digital Personal Fitness Trainer Manual, Trainer Workbook, and Online Chapter Quizzes are included with all package purchases and become available immediately once you create your NFPT Account. If you prefer studying away from your computer or do not have the ability to print the digital manual, you can purchase the hard-copy Personal Fitness Trainer Manual to read on the go. The hard-copy manual is included in the Premier (Pro) Package, and can also be added to the Standard (Core) Package at checkout.
Why Trainers Choose NFPT
Because getting certified shouldn’t be complicated — just clear, affordable, and built to help you succeed.
NFPT
NASM, ACE, ISSA
>80% Pass Rate
Micro Video Lessons
Live Study Sessions
Coaching Sessions
Free CEs
Not Sure Where to Start?
Download our free Personal Trainer Career Guide to explore your options, understand the certification process, and discover how to launch a fitness career you’ll love.
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Exam & Process FAQs
Still have questions? Read all FAQs
How long do I have to prepare for the exam?
You have one full year from the date of purchase to take your exam. Most NFPT candidates prepare in 6–12 weeks, but you can move faster or slower based on your schedule. Your study guides, quizzes, and prep tools are available immediately inside your NFPT Account.
Where can I take the exam?
NFPT offers two flexible testing options:
- In-person testing at partnered test centers nationwide
- Secure at-home online testing, available on your schedule Both options provide the same NCCA-accredited exam with identical standards.
What happens after I pass the exam?
You receive your instant exam results immediately after finishing. Within 1–2 business days, you’ll get your digital certificate, followed by your printed certificate (US & Canada) in about 7–10 days. You’ll gain access to member benefits, free CEUs, and tools to help you start training clients.
Can I retake the exam if needed?
Yes. If you don’t pass on the first attempt, you can retake the exam. Retake fees are significantly lower than most competitors, and you’ll keep access to all your study content so you can prepare confidently for your next attempt.
How will I receive my certification?
Your digital CPT certificate is emailed to you shortly after passing. NFPT also mails a professional printed certificate for your portfolio, gym applications, or client marketing. Both include your official NCCA-accredited CPT designation.
Still have questions? Read all FAQs
Start Your Personal Training Career Today with NFPT
Take the first step toward a career you’ll love. Get certified through an accredited, affordable program that gives you everything you need to start training clients and changing lives.