United States Department of Veterans Affairs
Licensing & Certification
You can receive reimbursement for licensing and certification tests you take on or after March 1, 2001. (MGIB-AD, VEAP & DEA beneficiaries only.) Effective January 6, 2006 MGIB-SR & REAP participants became eligible for this program. These tests must be specifically approved for the G.I. Bill. There is no limit to the number of test you may take, or number of times you may take the same test. However, your entitlement is charged proportionate to the cost of the test compared to your full-time monthly payment rate.
For recipients of the Post-9/11 GI Bill you are limited to reimbursement for only 1 test, but your GI Bill entitlement is not charged. Effective August 1, 2011 Post-9/11 GI Bill recipients are eligible for unlimited reimbursement for tests, however your GI Bill entitlement will be charged.
VA can pay only for the cost of the tests, up to $2,000.00, and not other fees connected with obtaining a license or certification. VA will pay for tests even if failed. Organizations providing tests can obtain a supply of a VA Licensing and Certification Pamphlet explaining this benefit.
Payment is issued after you submit proof of payment, etc. to the VA.
Licensing and Certification Tests
NOTE: If the test is not listed it doesn't mean that it is not a valid test, it only means that we have not approved it yet.
If you have never filed an application for education benefits, you need to submit an application for benefits along with your request for payment for a test or tests. Click here for more information.
You should also complete the VA Form 22-0803 (Application for Reimbursement of Licensing or Certification Test) and either mail it to us or submit an electronic copy via our "Ask A Question" website.
Organizations Seeking Test Approval
If your organization offers licensing or certification tests, VA urges you to request approval of your tests so that veterans and other beneficiaries may receive reimbursement.
If you represent a State or local licensing board, the approval requirements are minimal. If you represent a non-governmental organization, your test must be generally accepted within the industry, must have been in existence at least two years, and must meet other requirements.
You will be doing our nation's veterans a big favor if you participate in this program. Please understand that all payments will be sent directly to VA beneficiaries and not to your organization. If you wish to seek approval for your organization's tests, find the State Approving Agency for the State where the headquarters of your organization is located and contact them.