EPPP Part 1 vs Part 2: Knowledge vs Skills

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The EPPP now has two parts. The short version: Part 1 (Knowledge) is the long-standing
multiple-choice exam required everywhere; Part 2 (Skills) is a newer, scenario-based exam that only some
jurisdictions require.
Here’s how they differ, per ASPPB.

Part 1 vs Part 2 at a glance

Part 1 (Knowledge) Part 2 (Skills)
What it tests Foundational knowledge of psychology Applying knowledge to real-world practice decisions
Items 225 (175 scored) 170 (130 scored)
Item types Multiple choice Multiple choice plus scenarios and video-based items
Time 4 h 15 m 4 h 10 m
Required by All jurisdictions Only jurisdictions that have adopted it

Which part do you need?

  • Everyone takes Part 1. It’s the universal knowledge exam for psychology licensure.
  • Part 2 depends on your jurisdiction. As of late 2024, ASPPB paused its plan to make
    Part 2 universally required, so Part 2 remains available but optional — adopted only by some
    boards
    . Confirm whether your board requires it before you plan your timeline.

If a jurisdiction requires both, candidates generally must pass Part 1 first. Either way, timed,
scenario-based practice is the way through — and our bank covers both Knowledge and Skills content.

Unlock 3,900+ EPPP practice questions across 23 full-length simulators — $19.99 lifetime →

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference between EPPP Part 1 and Part 2?

Part 1 (Knowledge) is a 225-item multiple-choice exam testing foundational psychology knowledge and is required by all jurisdictions. Part 2 (Skills) is a newer 170-item, scenario- and video-based exam that applies knowledge to practice decisions and is required only by jurisdictions that have adopted it.

Is EPPP Part 2 required?

Not universally. As of late 2024, ASPPB paused its plan to make Part 2 a universal requirement, so Part 2 remains available but optional — required only by the jurisdictions that have adopted it. Confirm with your board.

Do you take EPPP Part 1 or Part 2 first?

Part 1. In jurisdictions that require both, candidates generally must pass Part 1 (Knowledge) before taking Part 2 (Skills).

Sources & references

The exam facts on this page are drawn from official certifying-body materials, reviewed 2026-06-18 by the DrCertifications exam-prep team (10+ years in exam preparation and publishing).