CPD Global Standards

Recognised Worldwide. Respected by Industry.

CPD Provider Criteria for the USA

Built for International Credibility.

Understanding international standards, recognition, and regional compliance.

Regulatory Overview

The United States does not have a unified national CPD (Continuing Professional Development) framework. Instead, requirements are set by state licensure boards, federal agencies, and professional associations. CPD—commonly referred to as CE (Continuing Education)—is mandatory for regulated professions such as healthcare, law, and accountancy. The American Medical Association (AMA), American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC), and National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) are key regulatory bodies.

Legal & Compliance Standards

Requirements vary by profession.

Physicians
50 hours of CME annually (state-dependent)
Accountants
80–120 hours every 2–3 years (NASBA)
Teachers
100+ hours every 5 years (varies by state) Providers must comply with FERPA, HIPAA, and relevant state privacy laws. Accepted documentation includes certificates of attendance, learning assessments, and participation records.

Course Delivery & Format Requirements

CE programs may be delivered online, face-to-face, or via blended learning. Formats can include conferences, on-demand modules, live webinars, and workplace-based learning. Learning objectives must be measurable. Most professions accept both structured and unstructured CE. Accessibility must comply with the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

Trainer & Provider Requirements

Trainers must be qualified subject-matter experts or licensed professionals. CE providers are often required to register with credentialing bodies (e.g., ANCC, NBCC, NASBA). Both U.S. and international providers are accepted if content meets standards and is approved by a recognised CE accreditor.

CPD Certification & Records

Certificates must include the participant’s name, CE hours awarded, course title, provider name, and completion date. Records must be kept for a minimum of 6 years in most states. Audits are conducted randomly or during licence renewals.

Recognising Bodies & Endorsement Schemes

  • American Medical Association (AMA)
  • American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC)
  • National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA)
  • State Departments of Education and Health
  • American Institute of Architects (AIA)

CPD Global Standards Accreditation Pathway

CPD Global Standards accredits U.S. CE providers by reviewing instructional quality, regulatory compliance, and sector relevance. We align with U.S. federal and state laws and professional body expectations. Certification is issued within 14 working days following successful review.

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Our Most Frequently Asked Questions

You ask, We answer

At CPD Global Standards, we believe in making the CPD accreditation process clear, accessible, and fully supported. Here you’ll find answers to the most common questions about becoming an accredited CPD provider in Africa.

CPD, often referred to as Continuing Education (CE), is mandatory for many licensed professions, including healthcare, law, and accounting, with requirements varying by state and profession.

Activities such as attending accredited courses, workshops, webinars, and conferences are commonly accepted. Self-study and teaching may also qualify, depending on the profession.

Accreditation bodies like the American Nurses Credentialing Center (ANCC) and the National Association of State Boards of Accountancy (NASBA) provide directories of approved providers.

Yes, many professions accept online CPD courses, provided they are accredited and meet the necessary criteria.

Failure to meet CPD requirements can result in penalties, including fines, suspension, or revocation of licensure, depending on the state’s regulations.

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