Park and recreation professionals provide essential services to their communities. Becoming a Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) will not only keep your skills sharp, but also give you prominence in the field. Earning your CPRE will bring you to the pinnacle of the profession and demonstrate you as the true leader you are.
 

Why Become a CPRE?

The CPRE certification is the highest level a park and recreation professional can reach and will give you many career advantages, including:

  • Demonstrating leadership in all aspects of managing a park and recreation department.
  • Mastering policy development and the management of fiscal, property and personnel resources.
  • Gaining an edge over other candidates when a promotion opportunity pops up or your dream job calls.
  • Joining an elite group of more than 400 CPREs who have committed to advancing our field.  


Eligibility

The CPRE certification is designed for professionals at the mid-level or above. CPRE candidates must meet education and experience requirements to qualify for the exam.* Please review the CPRE eligibility requirements, and contact Certification Staff with questions.

*Qualifying documentation is not required at the time of initial application; however, some applications will be randomly selected for audit to ensure the accuracy and validity of the data provided.

 

How to Become a CPRE

To become a CPRE, you must meet the eligibility requirements above, submit an application and pass the CPRE exam. To get started, complete the online application and pay the application and exam fee. CPRE certification is valid for three years. 

Apply Online 

Apply By Mail

Not a CPRP? No problem, sign up for both exams at the same time for a discounted rate. Applicants must qualify for both exams, please complete and submit the CPRP & CPRE Dual Application.

Individual CPRE Application and Exam Fees

  • $345 for NRPA Members
  • $404 for non-NRPA members

Learn More About The Exam


Group Discount Packages

  • Premier Agency Package – Allows 3 or more Premier members to apply for a group discount on applications and prep materials
  • Agency Package – Allows for 3 or more individuals to apply for a group discount regardless of membership status with NRPA (additional fees may apply).

CPRE Prep Materials and Resources

Access the CPRE Candidate Handbook, Procedures Manual, special testing accommodation forms and other resources to help you become a CPRE.

Prep Materials And Resources 

 

For questions or further information on CPRE certification, please review the CPRE Frequently Asked Questions or email us at certification@nrpa.org.

Going from CPRP to CPRE

Carrie CPRE blog 410

Carrie A. Fullerton, CPRE, the executive director of Arlington Heights Park District in Illinois, shares her experience of going from a Certified Park and Recreation Professional to a Certified Park and Recreation Executive.

Read more

One of My Best Takeaways From the COVID-19 Pandemic — Achieving the CPRE!

Tara Stewart CPRE 410

Tara Eggleston Stewart, chief of aquatics and athletic facilities for The Maryland-National Capital Park and Planning Commission’s (M-NCPPC) Department of Parks and Recreation, shares her journey to becoming a Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE).

Read more

The CPRE Isn’t That Scary After All

CPRE blog post 2022 410

Myla Neal, CPRE, the assistant director for Loudoun County Department of Parks, Recreation & Community Services in Virginia, shares her experience with taking the Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) exam, as well as some helpful tips.

Read more