Certified Professional Coder (CPC)

AAPC Commonly Funded

$399 Exam Cost $399 single attempt / $499 two attempts + $222 AAPC membership

$55,000 Average Salary

$42,000–$70,000 Salary Range

16-24 Prep Weeks

2 years / $222 Renewal

About the Certified Professional Coder (CPC)

The most widely recognized medical coding certification. Validates expertise in CPT, ICD-10-CM, and HCPCS coding for outpatient physician services.

Prerequisites

Medical coding training recommended; CPC-A designation without experience

Testing Format

In-person or online proctored (open-book, 4 hours)

How VR&E Funds the Certified Professional Coder (CPC)

Highly popular in VR&E healthcare career plans. VR&E can fund the training program, AAPC membership, coding manuals, and exam fee — total package worth $2,000+ through Purchase Orders.

What VR&E Typically Covers:

Exam fee ($399) — funded through Purchase Orders
Preparation courses and training programs
Study materials, practice exams, and lab access
Exam vouchers and retake fees when approved
Initial renewal fees may be covered during your plan period

All funding is subject to individual VRC approval as part of your Individualized Written Rehabilitation Plan (IWRP).

Career Paths with the Certified Professional Coder (CPC)

Medical CoderMedical Billing SpecialistCoding AuditorRevenue Cycle Analyst

VR&E vs GI Bill® for the Certified Professional Coder (CPC)

VR&E Chapter 31

Exam fee covered in full ($399) — no per-test cap
Prep courses and materials funded separately
No upfront payment — funded through Purchase Orders
Part of your career rehabilitation plan

GI Bill®

$2,000 per-test reimbursement cap
Veteran pays upfront, gets reimbursed
This exam ($399) falls within the GI Bill® cap
Does not cover prep courses or study materials

Related Certifications

Ready to Get the Certified Professional Coder (CPC) Funded Through VR&E?

Get Your Free Eligibility Checklist VR&E Application Toolkit — $197

Need help preparing for your VRC meeting? Explore the Counselor Meeting Prep Session — $497