Licensure & Certification Test Benefits

Veterans Education & Training Licensure and Certification Test Benefits

VA benefits are paid for licensing and certification tests per Section 122 of Public Law 106-419, effective March 1, 2001. This benefit is payable under Chapters 30, 32 and 35. Note: Under Post 9/11 Chapter 33 GI Bill®, benefits are paid only one time for an approved license or certification test.

  • licensing test is a test offered by a state, local or federal agency required by law to practice an occupation. Some states may refer to such tests as “certification” tests.
  • certification test is a test designed to provide an affirmation of an individual’s qualifications in a specified occupation. Certification is not required to practice an occupation except where the occupational licensing requirements include certification as part of those requirements.
  • Maximum Payment: The maximum payment per test is $2,000. There is no limitation of the number of tests that may be taken except that an individual may not exceed his or her maximum entitlement.
  • Entitlement Charge: The VA will charge entitlement for each payment under this section by dividing the amount of the test payment by the individual’s full-time institutional rate (including kicker, payment for additional dependents, or additional contributions). These calculations are similar to those done for flight or correspondence payments.

To apply for approval, licensing and certification entities may call the MSAA at: 573-751-2571 Veterans and eligible persons may call the VA to determine entitlement by calling toll free at: 1-888-442-4551.

‘‘GI Bill® is a registered trademark of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). More information about education benefits offered by VA is available at the official U.S. government Web site at https://www.benefits.va.gov/gibill."