AMFTRB National MFT Exam Prep
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FAQs
1. What is the structure of the AMFTRB National MFT Exam?
The AMFTRB National MFT Exam is a computer-based standardized exam. The exam includes 180 multiple-choice questions. Test takers have 4 hours to complete the exam. Individuals who meet the criteria under the Americans with Disabilities Act can request special accommodations through the testing center (Professional Testing Corporation). In addition, certain states provide special arrangements for English Language Learners (see question six below for additional information).
2. What is the passing score for the AMFTRB National MFT Exam?
A panel of expert judges sets the passing score for the National MFT Exam, and it changes with each exam testing period. The passing score shifts up or down based on the level of difficulty of each exam question: the easier the questions, the higher the passing score; the more difficult the questions, the lower the passing score. Most states use the passing score set by the AMFTRB; however, some jurisdictions set their own passing score. Test-takers do not receive results immediately; scores are sent to the appropriate state licensing board and mailed to test-takers within 20 business days of the exam date.
3. When will I be eligible to take the AMFTRB MFT National Exam?
Eligibility to sit for the exam varies by state that accepts the AMFTRB National MFT Exam for licensure. Contact your state licensing board for the application and to confirm eligibility requirements. Once you are approved by your state licensing board to sit for the AMFTRB National MFT Exam, you will receive an approval letter that includes an approval code and a link to the PTC Online Application System. Once you receive approval, complete the PTC application and submit payment for the examination/testing fee. PTC will email you a Candidate ID and Scheduling Authorization within 6 weeks of your testing period.
4. How often is the AMFTRB MFT National Exam administered?
The AMFTRB National MFT Exam is administered one week each month. The schedule for upcoming exam periods can be found here.
5. How can I apply for accommodations?
Accommodations are available for test takers with disabilities covered by the Americans with Disabilities Act. To request special accommodations, complete the online application (at least 8 weeks before the exam date) and attach the appropriate documentation (e.g., a doctor’s letter).
6. Does my state provide special accommodations for English Language Learners?
Not all states provide special accommodations for English Language Learners. Visit the AMFTRB website for the most up-to-date information and to see whether your state allows special arrangements.
7. What do I do if I am licensed in California and moving to a different state?
The answer to this question will vary based on the state you are moving to and the requirements established by that state’s MFT licensing board. First, apply to the MFT licensing board in the state you are moving to. Once that state MFT board reviews your application and credentials, they will inform you whether you have any deficits or whether you are eligible to sit for the AMFTRB National MFT Exam. You must apply to sit for the National MFT Exam through the state’s MFT licensing board in which you plan to practice. You cannot sit for the exam without taking this step. Here is an overview of requirements by state.
The California Board of Behavioral Sciences is actively pursuing increased reciprocity for MFTs. To date, several states accept the California MFT Clinical Exam, which means MFTs moving to these states may not have to take the AMFTRB National MFT Exam. If you’re licensed in California and moving, check with your individual state’s licensing board to determine if the California MFT Exam will fulfill the exam requirement.
The California Board of Behavioral Sciences is actively pursuing increased reciprocity for MFTs. To date, several states accept the California MFT Clinical Exam, which means MFTs moving to these states may not have to take the AMFTRB National MFT Exam. If you’re licensed in California and moving, check with your individual state’s licensing board to determine if the California MFT Exam will fulfill the exam requirement.
8. How does the California MFT Clinical Exam compare to the National MFT Exam?
The National MFT Exam has more questions than the California MFT Clinical Exam (180 versus 150). The content areas have some overlap, but the National MFT Exam covers more domains (knowledge areas). You can find the domains tested on the National MFT Exam here. The National MFT Exam includes more recall-based questions, whereas the California Clinical MFT Exam consists mostly of reasoning-based questions. However, the National MFT Exam also includes questions that test your critical thinking skills. Our exam prep will teach you the skills needed to approach those questions with confidence.
9. Can I use the California Clinical MFT Exam prep program to prepare for the National MFT Exam?
Some content overlaps between the National MFT exam and the California Clinical MFT exam. However, the content and types of questions differ significantly between the exams. Each program teaches the content and strategies designed to meet the unique needs of each exam. For this reason, it is not appropriate to use one program for both exams. If you are using TDC to prepare for both exams, we would be happy to give you a discount code as a thank you for your loyalty and to account for the overlap between programs.
10. Do I have access to a coach?
Absolutely! Free coaching by real humans (never AI!) is one of the key features that sets us apart from other companies. While using our program, you can submit a question anytime, and one of our coaches will email you back within two business days with a personalized response. Our programs provide everything you need to PASS WITH CONFIDENCE. If you need additional support, you can discuss your options with your coach.
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No. At this time, audio files are streamed through our website, so you must use either Wi-Fi or mobile data.

