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The ICF is renowned for its globally recognized credentialing program. Learn more, including how to apply for or renew your credential.
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The ICF is renowned for its globally recognized credentialing program. ICF Credentials are available to any coach who meets the requirements for the credential they apply for. The ICF offers three credentials (ACC, PCC and MCC). Detailed information on how to apply for each credential is available at the below links.
Associate Certified Coach (ACC)
The ICF Associate Certified Coach credential is for the practiced coach. It requires completion of a set amount of coach-specific training; a minimum of 100 coaching experience hours; and at least eight clients, among other requirements. Learn more and access the ACC application.
Professional Certified Coach (PCC)
The ICF Professional Certified Coach credential is for the proven coach. It requires completion of a set amount of coach-specific training, a minimum of 750 coaching experience hours, and at least 25 clients, among other requirements. Learn more and access the PCC application.
Master Certified Coach (MCC)
The ICF Master Certified Coach credential is for the expert coach. It requires completion of a set amount of coach-specific training, a minimum of 2,500 coaching experience hours and at least 35 clients, among other requirements. Learn more and access the MCC application.
There is an expectation that all ICF Credentialed coaches will continue their education and build on their level of experience. The resulting growth in competency and professionalism will be evidenced by their journey to the MCC credential.
The Road to Credentialing Presentation
This presentation includes: an explanation of each of the three credentialing levels (ACC, PCC and MCC), an overview of the application types (as well as tips to help you determine your application type), a review of the general requirements for each credential level, a preview of the online application and an outline of the process post application submission.
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Coaches interested in obtaining an ICF Credential should closely review the following information:
Definitions and Terms:
Coach Specific Training -
Coach Specific Training is training that is predominantly marketed as teaching coaching skills and not something else and where the major emphasis is on coaching skills or applying technical skills as a coach and in a manner consistent with the ICF core competencies.
Client Coaching Hours -
For purposes of individual credentialing for ACC, PCC and MCC, a client coaching hour is 60 minutes coaching time with a person who has hired you as a coach, with whom you have a formal coaching agreement, and who you coach rather than providing any other service such as consulting or therapy. If you perform coaching and other services for a client, you may only count the actual time spent coaching toward certification. You may not count time providing other services.
ICF Credentialing Policy Manual
All policies governing the ICF Credentialing Program
More Information/Questions
If you have questions or need assistance with your application, contact ICF Headquarters at icfcredentialing@coachfederation.org.
 | "I chose to renew my PCC for several reasons: renewing keeps me growing as a coach; it shows my clients that I take my profession seriously; and it supports professionalism in coaching." |
 | "It's a way of distinguishing myself by committing to continuing education and mastery in coaching." |
 | "To me, the ICF Credential says that I am a well-trained professional who meets or exceeds the high standards of the governing body of the coaching industry. The PCC designation that I have means I have the experience, the training, the hours and the skills to call myself a credentialed coach. It also speaks to my commitment to both myself and the profession of coaching." |