Overview

NC Certified Peer Support Specialists (CPSS) are required to renew their certification every two years. As a courtesy, all NC Certified Peer Support Specialists will receive an email with a Recertification Notice 60-90 days before the expiration date on their certificate. Failure to submit a complete recertification application by the end date of the current certification will result in the loss of Certification as a Peer Support Specialist in North Carolina.

A CPSS must renew their certification by the last day of the month they are due for renewal: Applicants must have certificates documenting the completion of 20 hours of training (continuing education and/or in-service) about their ongoing skill development and service delivery every two years. Training certificates submitted must be completed after your last recertification date.

To avoid any form of penalty that may occur due to your being out of compliance with possible state and federal guidelines, please submit your recertification application by the required deadline. We cannot retroactively date applications submitted late for review.

Application Processing Timeline

Please note that due to the high influx of applications, the processing time depends on how you submit (online or by mail) a complete application packet. Check the application tab. Incomplete applications will delay the process. To check the status of your certification/recertification, please visit the Credential Verification page and search your name to verify.

Incomplete Applications

Applicants unable to complete their recertification within the required time frame will have a lapsed certification.  To apply to reinstate your certification, the peer MUST apply as a new certification. 

Certificates

The NCCPSS Program mails approved certificates to the address submitted by the applicant on the application form. If an applicant changes address while processing certification, they MUST contact the Program to update their information to ensure timely receipt of their certificate. The Program staff will make ONE attempt to contact an applicant regarding a returned certificate.