200+ Free ACE CPT Practice Questions
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Key Facts: ACE CPT Exam
~65%
Overall Pass Rate
ACE
150 Qs
Total Questions
125 scored
80-120 hrs
Study Time
Recommended
90,000+
ACE-Certified Pros
Worldwide
$399
Exam Fee
Exam only
3 hrs
Time Limit
Computer-based
The ACE CPT exam has an overall pass rate of approximately 65%. The exam has 150 multiple-choice questions (125 scored + 25 unscored pilot), with a 3-hour time limit. A scaled score of 500 out of 800 is needed to pass. Requirements include being 18+, having a high school diploma/GED, and current CPR/AED certification with a hands-on component. ACE CPT holders earn a median salary of $52,000-63,000. There are over 90,000 ACE-certified professionals worldwide.
About the ACE CPT Exam
The ACE Certified Personal Trainer (CPT) exam from the American Council on Exercise is one of the most respected NCCA-accredited personal trainer certifications. The exam covers client onboarding and assessments, program design using the ACE Integrated Fitness Training (IFT) Model, program modification and progression, and risk management with professional conduct. ACE is the largest nonprofit fitness certification organization worldwide.
Questions
150 scored questions
Time Limit
3 hours
Passing Score
500/800 (~72%)
Exam Fee
$399 (ACE (Pearson VUE))
ACE CPT Exam Content Outline
Client Onboarding & Assessments
Health screening, behavior change, movement assessment, baseline fitness testing
Program Design & Implementation
ACE IFT Model, exercise science, FITT-VP principle, exercise instruction and cueing
Program Modification & Progression
Adherence strategies, periodization, special populations, overtraining recognition
Risk Management & Professional Conduct
Safety protocols, scope of practice, ACE Code of Ethics, legal liability
How to Pass the ACE CPT Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: 500/800 (~72%)
- Exam length: 150 questions
- Time limit: 3 hours
- Exam fee: $399
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
ACE CPT Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the ACE CPT pass rate?
The ACE CPT exam has an overall pass rate of approximately 65%. The exam has 150 multiple-choice questions (125 scored, 25 unscored pilot questions) with a 3-hour time limit. You need a scaled score of 500 out of 800 to pass, which corresponds to answering roughly 72% of scored questions correctly.
How hard is the ACE CPT exam?
The ACE CPT is moderately challenging with its 65% pass rate. Program Design & Implementation (31%) is the largest domain and requires mastery of the ACE IFT Model. Many candidates find behavior change theories and the integration of exercise science with practical application to be the most challenging areas. Plan for 80-120 hours of study.
What are the ACE CPT exam requirements?
To sit for the ACE CPT exam, you need: (1) be at least 18 years old, (2) hold a high school diploma or GED, (3) have current adult CPR and AED certification with a hands-on component (online-only CPR courses are NOT accepted), and (4) a valid government-issued photo ID. No college degree or prior fitness experience is required.
What is the difference between ACE CPT and NASM CPT?
ACE CPT uses the ACE Integrated Fitness Training (IFT) Model with emphasis on behavior change and the VT1/VT2 cardio model. NASM CPT uses the Optimum Performance Training (OPT) Model with a corrective exercise focus. ACE is a nonprofit organization; NASM is for-profit. Both are NCCA-accredited. ACE emphasizes coaching and behavior change, while NASM focuses more on corrective exercise and movement assessment.
How much do ACE CPT professionals earn?
ACE CPT holders earn a median salary of $52,000-63,000 per year. Entry-level trainers typically earn $35,000-45,000, while experienced trainers with specializations can earn $65,000-95,000+. Independent trainers who build their own client base can earn significantly more. Location, experience, specialization, and work setting (gym vs. independent) significantly affect earning potential.