HTCC CCE
Hand Therapy Certification Examination
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ExploreAbout this exam
The Certified Hand Therapist (CHT) credential is awarded by the Hand Therapy Certification Commission (HTCC) to occupational and physical therapists who demonstrate advanced competency in upper limb rehabilitation. According to HTCC, a CHT is a certified or licensed OT or PT who, through advanced education, clinical experience, and independent study, has become proficient in treating pathological upper limb conditions from trauma, disease, or congenital or acquired deformity. Eligibility includes a minimum of three years of clinical experience, including 4,000 or more hours in direct hand therapy practice, and passing a comprehensive test of advanced clinical skills and theory in upper limb rehabilitation. The exam covers the full scope of hand therapy: the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder girdle. HTCC describes hand therapy as the art and science of rehabilitation of the upper limb, merging occupational and physical therapy theory and practice. CHTs must recertify every five years to demonstrate continued professional development and competency. To prepare, candidates should review the exam blueprint, terms and abbreviations, and preparation materials on the HTCC website; join or form a study group; and use HTCC's self-assessment tool and exam prep resources. The fall 2026 examination application window is August 1 to October 15, 2026, per HTCC's home page. Always verify current deadlines and requirements directly with HTCC.
What you'll study
About HTCC CCE preparation
What does the CHT exam cover?
The exam is a comprehensive test of advanced clinical skills and theory in upper limb rehabilitation, covering the hand, wrist, elbow, and shoulder girdle. HTCC states that hand therapy merges occupational and physical therapy theory and practice, combining knowledge of upper limb structure with function and activity. For detailed content, consult the exam blueprint on the HTCC website.
What are the eligibility requirements to sit for the CHT exam?
You must be a certified or licensed occupational therapist or physical therapist with a minimum of three years of clinical experience, including 4,000 hours or more in direct practice in hand therapy. You must also successfully pass the comprehensive exam. HTCC lists these requirements on its website; always confirm current eligibility with HTCC.
How long is the CHT certification valid, and how do I renew?
The CHT credential is valid for five years. HTCC requires every CHT to demonstrate continued professional development and competency by recertifying every five years. Recertification can be achieved through professional development or by examination; see HTCC's recertification section for policies, deadlines, and fees.
When can I apply for the CHT exam?
According to HTCC's home page, the fall 2026 examination application is open from August 1st to October 15th. Application windows may change, so check the HTCC website for the most current dates and deadlines before applying.
How difficult is the CHT exam, and what are common failure modes?
The exam is designed for advanced practitioners and tests clinical reasoning across the entire upper limb. Common pitfalls include underestimating the shoulder and elbow content, neglecting foundational science, and poor time management on case-based items. HTCC provides an exam blueprint and preparation materials to help candidates focus their study.
What study order do you recommend?
Start with the HTCC exam blueprint to identify domains and weighting. Then review terms and abbreviations, followed by preparation materials and references. Use the self-assessment tool to find weak areas, join a study group, and practice applying knowledge to clinical scenarios. Finish with timed review sessions.
What is the exam format?
HTCC delivers the exam via computer at PSI test centers. The format is multiple-choice; see HTCC's Day of the Test and Exam Results sections for details on admission, security, scoring, and score reports. HTCC does not officially publish the number of items or time limit on its home page.
Can I retake the exam if I don't pass?
HTCC does not state its retake policy on the home page. Candidates should consult HTCC's certification FAQs, deadlines, fees, and refunds page, or contact HTCC directly at [email protected] for the current retake policy and any associated fees.