To prepare for the NALA CP exam, start by reviewing the Knowledge and Skills exam outlines on NALA’s website. Consider investing in study resources like NALA’s on-demand webinars, practice exam, or the Certified Paralegal Exam Fundamentals book. Most successful candidates study 60-90 days before their exam date, focusing on weaker subject areas first while regularly testing themselves with practice questions.
The NALA Certified Paralegal (CP) credential has long been the nation’s leading voluntary certification for paralegals. Once you become a paralegal, earning the CP designation demonstrates to employers that you’ve gone the extra mile to prove your competency and commitment to the profession.
For many paralegals, the CP designation opens doors to more professional opportunities. Some employers either require or prefer candidates with the CP credential. The certification can also mean a higher salary and a more straightforward pathway to advancement in the field.
Now that you’ve determined the CP is right for your paralegal career, it’s time to learn what the exam entails and how to prepare effectively. This guide covers everything from exam structure and official study resources to qualification requirements and proven preparation strategies.
Why the NALA CP Credential Matters
The Certified Paralegal designation demonstrates you’ve met rigorous national standards for paralegal competency. While voluntary in most jurisdictions, the CP credential can help you stand out in a competitive job market.
Some employers prefer or require CP certification for certain paralegal positions, particularly in federal agencies, large law firms, and corporate legal departments. The credential shows you understand legal concepts across multiple practice areas, not just the specialty you currently work in. This broad knowledge base can be valuable as you advance in your career.
Earning the CP designation shows employers your commitment to professional development and continued growth in the paralegal field. While NALA doesn’t guarantee specific salary increases or job placement, the certification can help demonstrate your qualifications in a competitive employment environment.
Understanding the Two-Part Exam Structure
The NALA CP exam consists of two separate examinations that you must pass to earn the credential. Understanding what each exam covers helps you prepare strategically and allocate your study time effectively.
The Knowledge Exam
The Knowledge Exam is a multiple-choice test covering nine legal topic areas. You’ll have three hours to complete it at a PSI testing center. The exam is offered year-round, allowing you to schedule your test when you feel ready.
The exam is scored on a pass/fail basis using a criterion-referenced method established by the NALA Certifying Board. You won’t receive a numerical score, but if you don’t pass, your results will identify subject areas where you performed below the standard, helping you focus your study efforts for a retake.
| Subject Area | Key Topics Covered |
|---|---|
| United States Legal System | Sources of Law, Judicial System, Remedies, Administrative Law |
| Civil Litigation | Jurisdiction, Federal Rules of Civil Procedure |
| Contracts | Formation, Rights & Duties, Enforcement, and Defenses |
| Professional & Ethical Responsibility | ABA Model Rules, Unauthorized Practice of Law |
| Corporate/Commercial Law | Business Organizations, Rights and Responsibilities, Transactions |
| Real Estate and Property | Property Rights and Ownership, Transactions |
| Torts | Intentional Torts, Negligence |
| Criminal Law | Criminal Procedures |
| Estate Planning and Probate | Estates and Trusts, Wills |
The Skills Exam
Once you’ve passed the Knowledge Exam, you’ll receive authorization to take the Skills Exam. This is a written essay exam that tests your practical application of legal knowledge. You’ll have two hours to complete the Skills Exam at a PSI testing center.
The Skills Exam is offered four times per year during specific testing windows: February, April, July, and October. You’ll analyze a fact pattern and demonstrate your ability to identify relevant issues, apply law to facts, and communicate clearly in writing.
Like the Knowledge Exam, the Skills Exam is scored on a pass/fail basis. Your writing is evaluated for grammar, spelling, punctuation, and clarity of expression. Your critical thinking skills are assessed through reading comprehension, analysis of information, and decision-making demonstrated in your response.
NALA Official Study Resources
NALA offers multiple study resources designed to help you prepare for both exams. While none are required to take the CP exam, many candidates find it valuable for focused preparation. Here’s what NALA provides:
On-Demand Webinars
NALA’s on-demand webinars allow you to study at your own pace while earning continuing legal education credits. Each webinar focuses on a specific topic area from the exam, providing a targeted review of key concepts.
| Webinar Course | CLE Hours | Member Price | Non-Member Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| CP Review – Civil Litigation and Torts | 1.5 | $45 | $65 |
| CP Review – Contract Law | 1.5 | $45 | $65 |
| CP Review – Corporate & Commercial | 1.5 | $45 | $65 |
| CP Review – Criminal Law and Torts | 1.5 | $45 | $65 |
| CP Review – Professional & Ethical Responsibility | 1.5 | $45 | $65 |
| CP Review – Real Estate & Property | 1.5 | $45 | $65 |
| CP Review – NALA Skills Exam – Essay Writing | 1.5 | $45 | $65 |
| CP Review – US Legal System and Procedure | 1.5 | $45 | $65 |
| CP Review – Course Bundle (All nine courses) | 10.75 | $166 | $246 |
Note: Pricing shown reflects available information as of 2025. Check NALA’s website for current rates.
The Course Bundle provides the best value if you want a comprehensive review across all subject areas. Individual courses work well if you need to focus on specific topics where you feel less confident.
Learn more about taking CP Review on-demand webinars here.
CP Practice Exam
The CP Practice Exam includes an online test bank of questions covering all Knowledge Exam topics, plus a smartphone app that lets you study anywhere. This resource helps you get comfortable with the exam format while identifying areas that need more attention.
You’ll have access to the practice exam and app for 1 year from the date of purchase. The cost is $59 for NALA members and $79 for non-members. Learn more about the CP Practice Exam here.
Certified Paralegal Exam Fundamentals Book
If you prefer studying from a printed resource, NALA’s Certified Paralegal Exam Fundamentals book covers all exam topics in 350 pages. Written by attorneys, paralegals, and legal educators, this comprehensive guide provides professional insight into what you’ll need to know before taking the exam.
Learn more about the Certified Paralegal Exam Fundamentals book here.
Sample Skills Exam Essays
NALA provides three sample Skills Exam essays on their website, giving you concrete examples of what to expect and how to approach the essay questions. These samples illustrate general expectations for format, depth of analysis, and writing style, but don’t assume actual exam prompts will follow the same structure or cover the same topics.
Find NALA’s Skills Exam samples here.
State & Local Exam Prep Programs
About 22 state and local paralegal associations offer CP exam review programs, providing structured study groups and instructor-led courses. These programs give you the benefit of learning alongside other candidates and getting direct answers to your questions from CP holders or attorneys.
Many associations offer weekly study groups year-round, while others run intensive annual programs. Some programs include practice tests, study materials, and one-on-one tutoring. Check with your state or local paralegal association to see what’s available in your area.
Learn more about CP exam review resources through state and local paralegal organizations here.
Creating Your Study Timeline
Most successful CP candidates study for 60-90 days before their Knowledge Exam. Your ideal timeline depends on your current legal knowledge, work schedule, and learning style. Here’s a strategic approach to planning your preparation:
8-12 Weeks Before Your Exam
Start by taking a diagnostic assessment to identify your strengths and weaknesses. Review the exam content outline and gather your study materials. If you’re using NALA’s resources, decide whether to purchase individual webinars for weak areas or the complete bundle for comprehensive review.
Create a study schedule that dedicates more time to subjects worth more points (Civil Litigation, Contracts, and Professional Responsibility each carry 15 points). Build in regular practice question sessions to reinforce learning and identify gaps.
4-7 Weeks Before Your Exam
Focus intensively on your weakest subject areas while maintaining regular review of stronger topics. Use the CP Practice Exam to simulate test conditions and build your endurance for the three-hour Knowledge Exam. Track your progress and adjust your study plan based on practice test results.
If you’re planning to take the Skills Exam, start practicing legal writing. Review sample essays, practice identifying issues in fact patterns, and organize your analysis clearly and concisely.
1-3 Weeks Before Your Exam
Shift focus to review and consolidation. Go through your notes, revisit challenging concepts, and take full-length practice tests under timed conditions. Don’t cram new material in the final week. Instead, reinforce what you’ve learned and ensure you’re comfortable with the exam format.
Confirm your exam appointment, review PSI testing center policies, and prepare what you’ll bring on test day. Get adequate rest the night before your exam.
How to Qualify for the NALA CP Exam
Before you can take the NALA CP exam, you must meet one of several qualification pathways. NALA designed these requirements to ensure candidates have sufficient legal education or experience before attempting the certification.
You qualify to take the exam if you meet any one of these criteria:
Education-Based Qualifications
If you’ve enrolled in or graduated from a paralegal program that meets one of the following standards, you qualify immediately:
- A paralegal program approved by the American Bar Association
- A post-baccalaureate certificate program in paralegal studies
- A bachelor’s degree in paralegal studies
- A paralegal program consisting of at least 60 semester hours (90 quarter hours) that includes at least 15 semester hours of substantive legal courses
Combined Education and Experience
If you hold a bachelor’s degree in any field, you can qualify by meeting one of these additional requirements:
- At least one year of experience working as a paralegal
- Completion of at least 15 semester hours of substantive paralegal courses
Experience-Based Qualification
Candidates without formal paralegal education can still qualify through work experience. If you have a high school diploma, you must have:
- At least seven years of experience working as a paralegal
- At least 20 hours of continuing legal education completed within the two years before applying
Exam Costs & Registration Process
Understanding the complete cost picture helps you budget appropriately for your CP certification. The total investment includes application fees, testing center fees, and any study materials you choose to purchase.
| Fee Type | NALA Member | Non-Member | Student Member | Student Non-Member |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Application Fee (to NALA) | $325 | $375 | $125 | $150 |
| Knowledge Exam (to PSI) | $55 | $55 | $55 | $55 |
| Skills Exam (to PSI) | $40 | $40 | $40 | $40 |
| Total Investment | $420 | $470 | $220 | $245 |
Note: Costs are accurate as of November 2025. Check NALA’s website for current fees.
Registration Process
Once you’ve applied and paid the application fee, NALA reviews your qualifications and sends verification that your application has been accepted. You’ll receive a Testing Ticket that allows you to log into the NALA portal and schedule your CP Knowledge Exam.
PSI testing centers typically open appointment times in batches. When PSI notifies you that appointments are available, log in to schedule your exam. You’ll pay the PSI testing fee when you schedule your appointment.
After you pass the Knowledge Exam, NALA notifies you of your results and authorizes you to schedule the Skills Exam. You’ll wait for PSI to announce the next testing window (February, April, July, or October), then schedule your Skills Exam appointment and pay the PSI fee.
What Happens If You Don’t Pass
Not passing on your first attempt doesn’t mean the end of your CP certification journey. NALA provides multiple opportunities to retake each exam, giving you time to strengthen weak areas and try again.
Retake Attempts and Timeline
You have three attempts to pass the Knowledge Exam within one year (365 days) from when NALA authorizes you to test. You must wait at least 90 days between each attempt, giving you time to study and improve your understanding of challenging topics.
Similarly, you have three attempts to pass the Skills Exam within one year. The 90-day waiting period between attempts applies here as well. This structure prevents rushed retakes while ensuring you have sufficient time to demonstrate your abilities.
Costs for Retaking Exams
Each retake requires a $60 fee paid to NALA, plus the PSI testing center fee ($55 for the Knowledge Exam or $40 for the Skills Exam). These costs add up, making thorough preparation for your first attempt a wise investment.
What Happens After Three Unsuccessful Attempts
If you can’t pass the Knowledge Exam within three attempts or within one year, your application becomes void. You’ll need to start the process over, which includes submitting a new application and paying the application fee again.
If you pass the Knowledge Exam but can’t pass the Skills Exam within three attempts or one year, your entire application becomes void. You’ll need to apply again and retake both the Knowledge Exam and the Skills Exam, even though you previously passed the Knowledge portion.
This policy emphasizes the importance of preparing thoroughly before your first attempt and using any unsuccessful attempts as learning opportunities to identify precisely what you need to improve.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I prepare for the NALA CP Exam?
Start by reviewing the exam content outlines on NALA’s website to understand what topics are covered. Most successful candidates use a combination of study resources, including NALA’s on-demand webinars, practice exams, or the Certified Paralegal Exam Fundamentals book. Create a study schedule 60-90 days before your exam date, focusing more time on subject areas worth more points and topics where you feel less confident. Regular practice with sample questions helps reinforce learning and identify gaps in your knowledge.
How many times can you take the NALA exam?
You have three attempts to pass the Knowledge Exam and three attempts to pass the Skills Exam within one year (365 days) of receiving authorization to test from NALA. You must wait at least 90 days between each attempt. If you don’t pass either exam within three attempts or within one year, your application becomes void, and you must start the process over with a new application.
How long is the NALA CP Exam?
You’ll have three hours to complete the Knowledge Exam, which consists of multiple-choice questions covering nine legal topic areas. The Skills Exam allows two hours for you to complete a written essay analysis. Both exams are taken at PSI testing centers with computer-based testing.
Do I need to be a NALA member to take the CP exam?
No, NALA membership is not required to take the CP exam. However, members receive a discount on the application fee ($250 for members vs. $275 for non-members) and reduced rates on study materials. If you plan to use multiple NALA study resources, becoming a member first might save you money overall.
Can I take the Skills Exam before the Knowledge Exam?
No, you must pass the Knowledge Exam first before receiving authorization to take the Skills Exam. NALA reviews your Knowledge Exam results and then notifies you when you’re approved to schedule the Skills Exam. This sequential approach ensures candidates have demonstrated foundational legal knowledge before testing practical application skills.
How long does it take to get CP exam results?
Knowledge Exam results are typically available within a few days of completing your test. Skills Exam results take longer because the essays require manual review and scoring by experienced evaluators. You can expect Skills Exam results within several weeks of your testing date. NALA notifies you of your results by email and through your NALA portal account.
What score do I need to pass the CP exam?
The NALA CP exam is scored on a pass/fail basis using a criterion-referenced method (Angoff method). NALA doesn’t publish specific numerical passing scores or raw scores. Your score report will indicate whether you passed or failed, and if you failed, it will identify subject areas where you performed below the standard, helping you focus your study efforts for a retake.
Key Takeaways
- The NALA CP exam consists of two parts: a Knowledge Exam covering nine legal topics (3 hours) and a Skills Exam with essay analysis (2 hours), both taken at PSI testing centers and scored pass/fail.s
- Most successful candidates study for 60-90 days before their exam, using NALA’s official resources, such as webinars, practice exams ($59-79), or the Certified Paralegal Exam Fundamentals book.
- You can qualify through an ABA-approved program, a bachelor’s degree plus 1 year of experience or 15 credit hours, or a high school diploma with 7 years of experience and 20 CLE hours.s
- Total exam costs range from $220-$470, depending on your NALA membership and student status, including application fees and PSI testing center fees (as of 2025)
- You have three attempts to pass each exam within one year, with a required 90-day waiting period between attempts and a $60 NALA fee plus PSI testing fee for each retake.e
- State and local paralegal associations offer structured CP exam review programs in about 22 areas, providing instructor-led courses and study groups alongside self-study options.
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