Become SPēD Certified

Benefits of Certification

For Individuals

Fosters understanding of the concepts and principles deemed critical to protect the Nation's assets. Provides nationally-accredited and recognized credential transportable across the DOD, Federal Government, and Industry.

For Employers

Provides a reference to determine an individual's understanding of the concepts and principles deemed critical to protect the Nation's assets and a source to increase workforce productivity. Identifies competent, mission-ready professionals and promotes interoperability.

For the Profession

Defines consistent standards which build upon professionalizing the workforce. Provides a structure for certificants to maintain competencies and assure their mission readiness.

My SPēD Certification (MSC) Account

MSC Login external link icon


MSC is the system of record for the SPēD Certification Program. Before scheduling a SPēD certification or credential assessment, candidates must establish an active and up-to-date MSC account. MSC accounts are where candidates and certificants will manage their SPēD Certification activity.

To create and update a MSC account:

  1. Create a new MSC account at (https://dcsa.useclarus.com). external link icon
  2. Select “Create a New Profile” on the left navigation pane. Fill out all of the information, agree to the terms of conditions, and click “Register”.
    a. Non-DOD Identification Number Candidates
    Non-DOD Identification Number candidates are required to fill out additional demographic information in order to gain access to the SPēD and APC Program. The SPēD PMO will review and approve or deny Non-DOD Identification Number candidates within seven business days. Non-DOD Identification Number candidates are not required to complete or submit any forms outside of MSC.
  3.  Select “Login” at the bottom of the page.

Update Account Information

  1. Sign in to your MSC Account (https://dcsa.useclarus.com). external link icon
  2. Under the username dropdown located on the top-right of the page, click “Profile”.
  3. Select “Update profile”.
  4. Once complete, click “Save Changes” located at the bottom of the page.

Reset Your Password

To reset your password, select “Forgot your password” on the MSC homepage. Input your username (usually your email address) and click “reset password”.

Requesting Authorization to Test and Scheduling an Assessment

After a MSC account is active and updated, and before scheduling a SPēD certification or credential assessment, candidates must obtain authorization from their employing Component or agency to take a SPēD certification assessment.

Complete the following to request authorization to test:

  1. Candidate must notify their supervisor of intent to participate in the SPēD Certification Program.
  2. Log in to (or create) MSC account.
  3. Select “Browse Credentials” on the left- hand navigation pane.
  4. Scroll to the certification or credential desired and click link under “Pass the exam listed below to obtain this certification”.
  5. Complete the required information including a special accommodations request, if applicable and click “Finalize Application” at the bottom of the form.
  6. If the request is approved, follow the instructions within the confirmation email.
  7. After the assessment has been scheduled, candidates will receive a confirmation email with important information for assessment day, including directions to the test center.

Upon receiving authorization to test, the assessment must be scheduled and completed within 120 calendar days.

Canceling or Rescheduling a SPēD Certification Assessment

Candidates may cancel or reschedule an assessment without penalty at least 24 hours prior to their assessment test date and time. If candidates cancel their assessment less than 24 hours in advance, they will be placed on a 90-day hold and will not be allowed to reschedule their assessment until that 90-day period expires. Canceling or rescheduling an assessment cannot be made by the SPēD PMO, DOD SPēD CSR, or through the test center. All changes must be made through your MSC account or Pearson VUE. You may call Pearson VUE at 1-888-477-0284 to cancel or reschedule an assessment, or visit https://home.pearsonvue.com/Test-takers/Customer-service.aspx. external link If extenuating circumstances warrant an exception, candidates can contact their SPēD Program CSR.

Candidates may reschedule existing appointments within the 90-calendar day authorization allotment.

Retaking a SPēD Certification Assessment

If candidates do not obtain a passing score, are a no-show, or do not complete the assessment, they can schedule to retake the same assessment or credential after the required waiting period. The waiting period for the APC and DPAPC assessment is 45 days after the first sitting (or attempt), and 90 days for each sitting after. The waiting period for all other SPēD certifications or credentials is 90 days after each sitting. This waiting period is applied after each attempt, regardless of whether candidates completed the assessment. “Sitting for the assessment” occurs when candidates log on to the testing workstation. Candidates have a limit of a total of 8 sittings (or attempts) per single certification or credential.