Once my application is approved, how long do I have to take the exam?

 Your application is approved and active for an 18-month exam eligibility period, during which you are eligible to register for, schedule, and take (or retake) the certification exam. You may choose to register for any of the exam windows offered during this 18-month timeframe. It is vital that you schedule and complete your exam appointment before this 18-month eligibility expires. Failure to do so will result in the forfeiture of all certification fees paid, which are strictly nonrefundable. Furthermore, if you wish to defer your exam to a different testing window, your 18-month application eligibility must still be active to process the deferral request.