Understanding CPC Renewal Remediation for ATs Certified in 2026 and Beyond

As Athletic Trainer (AT) educators prepare students for entry into professional practice, it is equally important to understand the accountability structures that support certification renewal. Beginning with ATs certified in 2026 or later, the Continuing Professional Certification (CPC) Renewal – powered by Pathfinder, includes a defined remediation pathway for those who fall behind on meeting requirements.

The BOC designed this structure to reinforce professional responsibility while offering a clear opportunity to regain compliance before certification is adversely affected.

When Does Remediation Apply?

ATs certified in 2026 or later who fall behind by two or more Pathfinder segments during their renewal period will enter a remediation process. Rather than immediate certification expiration, remediation provides a structured pathway to return to compliance before the January 31, 2028, certification renewal deadline.

This approach reflects a balance between professional accountability and supportive oversight.

What Remediation Requires

ATs placed in remediation must complete the following:

• Completion of all four My Challenge Questions (MCQ) segments
• Completion of any other outstanding CPC Renewal requirements
• Mandatory continuing education (CE) audit following the renewal period
• Potential review by the BOC Professional Practice and Discipline Committee

This process ensures that deficiencies are fully addressed and that documentation meets certification standards.

Consequences of Failing to Complete Remediation

Failure to meet remediation requirements within the specified deadline will result in:

• Expiration of certification
• Required compliance with BOC reactivation and/or reinstatement policies and procedures to return to active status

Reinforcement that the certification renewal is not optional — it is a professional obligation tied to public trust and patient safety.

Why This Matters for Athletic Trainer Educators

Understanding remediation policies allows educators to better prepare students for the realities of professional accountability.

You can proactively support future compliance by:

• Introducing students to renewal processes and timelines before graduation
• Teaching CE documentation best practices
• Emphasizing professional responsibility in courses

Students who understand the rhythm of CPC Renewal segments, deadlines and documentation expectations, are far less likely to fall behind early in their careers.

Building Habits Before Graduation

The remediation process underscores an important message: professional development requires ongoing engagement, not last-minute completion. Athletic training programs that model goal setting, reflective practice and consistent progress tracking are already preparing graduates for success within CPC Renewal.

By aligning academic habits with certification expectations, educators help ensure that remediation remains a safeguard and not a common outcome.

For more information about CPC Renewal and remediation requirements, educators can visit the BOC website.