100+ Free CCS-P Medical Coding Practice Questions
Pass your AHIMA Certified Coding Specialist — Physician-based exam on the first try — instant access, no signup required.
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Key Facts: CCS-P Medical Coding Exam
100+
Practice Questions Here
OpenExamPrep CCS-P bank
300/400
Passing Score
AHIMA scaled scoring
3.5h
Exam Duration
AHIMA CCS-P format
AHIMA
Credentialing Body
American Health Information Management Association
2026
Content Refresh
Current code-year prep
Physician
Setting Focus
Outpatient/physician coding
The AHIMA CCS-P exam covers physician-based coding competencies including ICD-10-CM, CPT, HCPCS Level II, E/M coding, modifiers, and compliance. The exam uses a combination of multiple-choice questions and coding scenarios administered over 3.5 hours at Pearson VUE or online. A scaled score of 300 out of 400 is required to pass. AHIMA recommends 2+ years of physician-based coding experience.
About the CCS-P Medical Coding Exam
The CCS-P credential from AHIMA is a nationally recognized coding certification focused on physician-based services. The exam tests proficiency in ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding, CPT procedural coding, HCPCS Level II, E/M level selection, modifier usage, and coding compliance in outpatient physician settings.
Questions
115 scored questions
Time Limit
3 hours 30 minutes
Passing Score
Scaled 300 (100-400)
Exam Fee
$299 members / $399 non-members (AHIMA (Pearson VUE))
CCS-P Medical Coding Exam Content Outline
ICD-10-CM Diagnosis Coding
Code assignment, sequencing rules, conventions, and official guidelines for physician encounters
CPT Procedural Coding
Surgery, radiology, pathology/lab, medicine, and E/M code selection with modifier logic
HCPCS Level II and Modifiers
Supply, drug, DME coding and modifier application for NCCI compliance
Evaluation and Management
MDM and time-based E/M selection, new/established patients, and preventive medicine
Compliance, Terminology, and Anatomy
Coding ethics, documentation standards, medical terminology, and anatomy fundamentals
How to Pass the CCS-P Medical Coding Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: Scaled 300 (100-400)
- Exam length: 115 questions
- Time limit: 3 hours 30 minutes
- Exam fee: $299 members / $399 non-members
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
CCS-P Medical Coding Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the CCS-P exam format?
The CCS-P exam consists of approximately 115-135 questions including multiple-choice and coding scenario items. It is administered by Pearson VUE either at a test center or via online proctoring. The exam lasts 3 hours and 30 minutes. A scaled score of 300 out of 400 is required to pass.
What is the difference between CCS-P and CPC?
CCS-P is administered by AHIMA and tests physician-based coding using coding scenarios and multiple-choice questions. CPC is administered by AAPC and is an open-codebook exam with 100 multiple-choice questions. Both certify physician/outpatient coding competency, but they are from different credentialing organizations with different exam formats.
How should I study for CCS-P in 2026?
Focus on ICD-10-CM official guidelines, CPT procedural coding across all body systems, E/M level selection, HCPCS Level II, and modifier logic. Practice with coding scenarios that require applying guidelines to documentation. AHIMA recommends at least 2 years of coding experience before attempting the exam.
What topics are most heavily tested on CCS-P?
ICD-10-CM diagnosis coding and CPT procedural coding make up the majority of the exam (approximately 30% each). E/M coding, HCPCS Level II, and compliance/regulatory topics round out the remaining content. Coding scenarios test the ability to assign codes from documentation.
Is CCS-P an open-book or closed-book exam?
The CCS-P exam format and reference material policies are defined by AHIMA and may vary. Check the current AHIMA CCS-P Candidate Guide for the most up-to-date exam rules regarding reference materials. The exam does include coding scenarios where practical coding skills are assessed.
How do I maintain my CCS-P certification?
CCS-P certification must be renewed every two years through continuing education units (CEUs). AHIMA requires a specific number of CEUs in coding-related topics. Failure to recertify results in the credential becoming inactive.