additional certifications and ACCREDITATION

Through national certification you can join thousands of people who are committed to the highest standards of ethical and professional practice in the delivery of park and recreation programs.

Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP)

The Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) certification is granted to individuals employed in the recreation, park resources and leisure services profession who meet high standards of performance.

Initial Certification Application Form

Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE)

The Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) certification can be achieved by individuals employed in the recreation, park resources and leisure services profession who meet high standards of performance at a mastery (middle to upper management level).

For questions, contact Molly Sullivan, Certification Manager, at msullivan@nrpa.org

Have a recent name change and need to update your certifications?

Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) and Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE)

3/1/2021 extensions

We would like to make you aware that the National Certification Board has instated a temporary extension policy for CPRP's and CPRE's who expire March 1, 2021.

Due to the current challenging circumstances, NRPA and the National Certification Board will extend Certified Park and Recreation Professional (CPRP) or Certified Park and Recreation Executive (CPRE) certification expiration dates by six months upon request, from 3/1/2021, to 9/1/2021.

Certified professionals who are granted an extension will maintain a new certification cycle beginning and ending in September. Certified professionals who have already received an extension from 9/1/2020 to 3/1/2021 are not eligible for an additional extension unless granted through appeal. Eligible parties must request an extension online through the My NRPA tab in your NRPA Profile by May 31, 2021. Please email certification@nrpa.org for more information.

There is a 90 day grace period after the expiration date during which you are still eligible to submit for CPRP Renewal, CEU Petitions and Professional Service Experience Forms. The end of this grace period is the basis for the extension deadline.