CP Exam Eligibility Requirements
Three pathways to qualify for the NALA Certified Paralegal exam. Find out which one applies to you and what documentation you need.
Eligibility pathways
NALA offers three pathways to qualify for the CP exam. You only need to meet the requirements of one pathway.
Pathway 1: Paralegal Education
Graduation from a paralegal program that is approved by the American Bar Association (ABA) or an institutionally accredited program that includes at least 60 semester hours (or the equivalent), of which at least 15 semester hours are substantive paralegal courses.
Requirements
- ABA-approved paralegal program, OR
- Associate degree in paralegal studies (or equivalent), OR
- Post-baccalaureate certificate in paralegal studies (at least 15 credit hours of paralegal courses)
This is the most common pathway. Most paralegal programs include coursework covering the content areas tested on the CP exam.
Pathway 2: Bachelor's Degree + Experience
A bachelor's degree in any field combined with one year of paralegal experience. The experience must be substantive paralegal work performed under the supervision of a licensed attorney.
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree in any field from an accredited institution
- One year (equivalent of 2,000 hours) of paralegal experience
- Experience must be under attorney supervision
This pathway is common for career changers with a four-year degree who have transitioned into paralegal work.
Pathway 3: High School Diploma + Experience
A high school diploma or equivalent combined with seven years of paralegal experience under the supervision of a licensed attorney. At least one year of experience must have been within the last five years.
Requirements
- High school diploma or GED
- Seven years of qualifying paralegal experience
- At least one year of experience within the past five years
- All experience under attorney supervision
This pathway recognizes extensive on-the-job experience. It is less common but provides access for experienced paralegals without formal paralegal education.
How to apply for the CP exam
- 1.Verify your eligibility. Confirm you meet at least one of the three pathways above. Gather documentation (transcripts, employment verification) before starting the application.
- 2.Create a NALA account. Register on the NALA website and complete the CP exam application. You will need to provide education and/or experience documentation.
- 3.Pay the exam fee. The CP exam costs $250. Payment is due at the time of application.
- 4.Wait for approval. NALA reviews your application and documentation. Once approved, you will receive authorization to schedule your exam at a PSI testing center.
- 5.Schedule your exam. Book your appointment at a PSI testing center. Choose a date that gives you enough time to complete your study plan.
What counts as paralegal experience?
For Pathways 2 and 3, NALA requires substantive paralegal work performed under the supervision of a licensed attorney. Qualifying experience includes:
- Legal research and writing
- Drafting legal documents (pleadings, contracts, discovery requests)
- Case management and file organization
- Client interviews and communication (under attorney direction)
- Discovery preparation and document review
- Trial preparation and assistance
- Corporate document preparation and filing
- Real estate closings and title work
What does not count: General administrative or clerical work (filing, answering phones, scheduling) does not qualify as paralegal experience, even if performed in a law firm. The work must be substantive legal work that would be performed by an attorney if the paralegal were not available.
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a paralegal degree to take the CP exam?
No. While a paralegal degree is one pathway (Pathway 1), you can also qualify with a bachelor's degree in any field plus one year of experience (Pathway 2), or with seven years of experience and a high school diploma (Pathway 3).
Can I take the CP exam while still in school?
Generally, you must have completed your paralegal program before sitting for the CP exam. Check with NALA for the most current policy, as some programs may have special arrangements for students near graduation.
Is NALA membership required to take the CP exam?
No. NALA membership is separate from CP exam eligibility. You can take the exam without being a NALA member, though membership provides access to professional resources and networking.
How long does the application approval take?
Application processing times vary. Plan to submit your application well in advance of your desired test date. Contact NALA directly for current processing time estimates.
What documentation do I need for the experience pathway?
You will typically need verification from a supervising attorney confirming the nature and duration of your paralegal work. NALA provides specific forms and requirements during the application process.
Eligible? Start studying now
ParalegalPrep has everything you need to pass the CP exam: practice questions, flashcards, and study plans for all 10 content areas.
ParalegalPrep is not affiliated with or endorsed by NALA. Eligibility requirements are summarized from NALA guidelines and may change. Verify current requirements at nala.org.