BOC and NATA: What’s the Difference?

The Board of Certification (BOC) — that’s us — is the credentialing agency that certifies all Athletic Trainers (ATs) and approves organizations to offer continuing education (CE). Our role is to advocate for public protection through a strong credentialing program that ensures ATs are qualified and competent to practice. To maintain the ATC® credential, ATs must pay an annual certification maintenance fee directly to the BOC, as well as complete and submit their CE and other requirements every two years.

The National Athletic Trainers’ Association (NATA) is the separate professional membership association for certified ATs and others who support the athletic training profession. NATA provides ATs with professional growth, networking, advocacy, affordable CE, learning opportunities and other needs to keep athletic training essential to health care. By being a NATA member, ATs are investing in their career and profession. ATs will pay annual membership dues directly to NATA, if they choose to join. The BOC encourages all ATs to be members of the NATA to support their career by taking advantage of all benefits offered.

Review the side-by-side comparison below to see what support each organization offers ATs.