Any counselor that is looking to obtain certification in the chemical dependency department is required to take a certification test. The exam that is given by a recognized participant of the National Commission for Certifying Agencies is composed of one hundred fifty multiple choice questions. These multiple choice questions will include various situational terms as far as chemical dependency is concerned.

Knowledge on different chemical substances that are used and the effects that are conceived due to the chemical dependency are also touched upon. General information on commonly used street drugs and the effects on the body is to be known. It is advised to be knowledgeable on the effects of chemical dependency and the family dynamic. Overall chemical dependency and systems of recovery will also be present throughout the exam questions.

Although the exam is multiple choice, the questions are detailed and there is one clear cut answer for each question. A chemical dependency counselor must complete and pass the exam satisfactorily in order to obtain the title of a Certified Chemical Dependency Counselor. Participants will be given an allotted time in which they much complete the one hundred fifty question multiple choice test. Failure to comply with all regulations given prior to the taking of the test will result in immediate failure of the exam as well as failure to obtain the proper certification for becoming a certified chemical dependency counselor. Certification tests will be given at various times throughout the calendar year and will only be recognized as a legitimate exam if it is given by one of the facilities recognized by the National Commission for Certifying Agencies or otherwise known as the NCCA.

A list of these agencies may be available online. Once the exam is satisfactorily given and passed the counselor will in turn receive a California certification as a Chemical Dependency Counselor.