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NAP Accreditation Programs
The National Association of Parliamentarians awards two levels of accreditation above its basic membership level: Registered Parliamentarian (RP®) and Professional Registered Parliamentarian (PRP®).
Registered Parliamentarian
Registered Parliamentarian (RP®) status demonstrates an in-depth knowledge of parliamentary procedure and a thorough familiarity with Robert's Rules of Order Newly Revised. This knowledge helps RPs provide quality instruction to others learning about parliamentary procedure; enables them to respond quickly and confidently to questions and situations that arise during the conduct of business in the organizations they serve or in which they participate; and allows them to quickly find details or supporting documentation of any parliamentary topic.
The Registration Examination
RP status is offered to members of the National Association of Parliamentarians who successfully complete the registration examination. The examination contains five parts:
- Research (open book)
- Motions and related concepts
- Meetings, sessions and related procedures
- Officers and elections, voting, boards and committees, and related procedures
- Rules of the assembly and related procedures
Five research questions are presented, and the 300 questions in the remaining four sections of the exam are taken from a set of 1200 questions published by NAP and available for order via the NAP order form. An applicant who has passed at least three parts may retake an examination on any part or parts not passed. The registration re-examination must be taken within one year. If not successfully completed within that time, the entire examination must be retaken to attain the designation of Registered Parliamentarian.
Taking the Registration Examination
To take the registration examination, the member should download the Registration Exam Application Form or contact NAP headquarters to request a blank form. The examination may be taken at any time; however, the application and examination fee must be postmarked no later than 40 days prior to the date of the examination.
Examination fees are $150 for the full exam, $25 for Part I re-examination, and $50 for Parts II - V re-examination.
Maintaining RP Status
Members who have achieved RP status retain that status for as long as they maintain their RP membership with the National Association of Parliamentarians.
Professional Registered Parliamentarian
Professional Registered Parliamentarian (PRP®) status indicates to others that a member has not only the knowledge, but also the practical skills to successfully deliver parliamentary services. Building on the expertise demonstrated at the Registered Parliamentarian level, the PRP designation shows professional clients that the member can provide quality parliamentary services and has agreed to adhere to the code of ethics adopted by NAP. PRPs are also eligible to participate in the National Association of Parliamentarians' professional referral service.
Obtaining PRP status
PRP status is granted to Registered Parliamentarians who successfully complete a Professional Qualifying Course and demonstrate competency and skills in these areas:
- serving as a professional parliamentarian and/or professional presider at conventions and meetings
- working with an organization's governing documents
- engaging in parliamentary research and writing opinions
- serving as an instructor/consultant
- applying the ethical and business practices of a professional parliamentarian
Taking the Professional Qualifying Course
The Professional Qualifying Course (PQC) is offered in conjunction with NAP's biennial convention, in conjunction with the National Training Conference, and at other times upon approval of the Professional Development Committee. Six or more participants are required to hold the course because of its interactive nature. See the event calendar for courses currently scheduled, or contact NAP headquarters to inquire about or arrange a class. The course fee is $250.
Maintaining PRP status
Once a member achieves the Professional Registered Parliamentarian designation, he or she must maintain this status through a combination of practical experience and continuing education. PRPs must submit a record of their parliamentary service and continuing education achievement, demonstrating a continuing accumulation of valuable experience and knowledge. In addition the professional member must successfully complete the Professional Recertification Course (PRC) every six years.
Taking the Professional Recertification Course
The Professional Recertification Course (PRC) is offered in conjunction with NAP's biennial convention, in conjunction with the National Training Conference, and at other times upon approval of the Professional Development Committee. Six or more participants are required to hold the course because of its interactive nature. See the event calendar for courses currently scheduled, or contact NAP headquarters to inquire about or arrange a class. The course fee is $250.
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