Retaking the AETCA

We understand that testing can be stressful, which is why we offer the option to retake the AETCA. Whether you’re looking to improve your score or simply want another chance to demonstrate your knowledge, we’re here to help you succeed. In order to be eligible to retake the AETCA, you must meet all of the following conditions:

1. You have taken the AETCA (either for the first time or a renewal) within the past three years.

2. You have not exceeded the AETCA testing limits (see below). 

3. Your AETCA scores are not within 90 days of expiration (if so, you will need to renew instead). 

If you do not meet all three above conditions, then you are not eligible for a retake. Please reach out using the Contact page if you have any specific questions or concerns. 

Testing Limits

To uphold the integrity and value of the AETCA, we limit the number of times an examinee can retake the assessment. Each examinee is allowed a maximum of four attempts per scoring period.  

A scoring period lasts three years, beginning on the date of an examinee’s first AETCA attempt. This period aligns with the validity of AETCA scores. During this time, an examinee may retake the assessment up to three times in addition to their initial attempt, for a total of four attempts. For example, if an examinee takes the AETCA on January 1, 2025, their scoring period runs until January 1, 2028, and they may retake the exam up to three times before that date.  

At the end of the scoring period, the testing limit resets, granting four new attempts for the next period. If an examinee exhausts all four attempts before the period ends, they must wait until the next scoring period to take the AETCA again. This limit does not apply to score renewals, which can be taken up to 90 days before scores expire, even if all previous attempts have been used.  

Testing limits are not cumulative. Unused attempts do not carry over to the next scoring period. Test attempts cannot be transferred or sold to another examinee. These policies ensure fairness while allowing examinees multiple opportunities to demonstrate their competency.

Retake Structure

AETCA retakes are full-length assessments that maintain the same structure as the standard AETCA. While the retake will include a new set of questions, some may overlap with those from your initial assessment.

Score Replacement

Your most recent AETCA attempt determines your official score, regardless of whether it is higher or lower than previous attempts. We do not retain only your highest score, nor do we combine section scores from multiple attempts.

Ready to Register?

To retake the AETCA, please follow the standard registration process. You will need your AETCA Examinee ID, which was included in the email with your score report after your initial attempt. If you cannot locate your examinee ID or have any questions, please reach out through the Contact page.