Psychopharmacology Examination for Psychologists (PEP)
For practicing psychologists trained in the chemistry and biology of medications, psychopharmacology offers a distinct set of tools for treatment. Psychopharmacology also adds a layer of risk and responsibility to psychology practice. Ultimately, it falls to regional licensing boards to ensure that the tools of psychopharmacology are used appropriately and are delivering the best possible patient outcomes.
PEP basics
At the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB), we created and continue to administer the PEP on behalf of U.S. and Canadian jurisdictional boards that offer licensure with prescription privileges. The PEP measures the foundational knowledge you need to administer medications safely and effectively in your psychology practice. In keeping with testing-industry standards, we’ve thoroughly reviewed and revised the PEP to keep pace with advances in the use of psychotropic medications. As of June 2024, seven jurisdictional boards (Colorado, Guam, Idaho, Illinois, Iowa, Louisiana, New Mexico), the U.S. Department of Defense, the U.S. Public Health Service, and the Indian Health Service require you to pass the PEP before considering your application for prescription privileges. Contact the jurisdiction where you will be seeking licensure to determine if it offers licenses with prescription privileges.