CPC Vs CBCS Vs CCS: Which Medical Coding Certification Should You Get First?

Each credential opens doors in a different setting – physician offices, hospitals, or third-party billing – and comes with its own costs and requirements. The CPC exam costs $399 plus AAPC membership, the CBCS exam is $125 with no membership, and the CCS runs $399 for non-members or $299 for AHIMA members. Medical records and health information jobs are growing at 7% through 2033, making the right choice crucial from the start.

CPC vs CBCS vs CCS: Key Differences in Scope and Exam Content

• The CPC from AAPC is the industry's most recognized outpatient coding credential, focusing on CPT, HCPCS Level II, and ICD-10-CM code sets. Most CPCs work in physician offices or outpatient clinics. The exam includes 100 multiple-choice questions and offers both in-person and remote proctoring options. To remove the apprentice "A" designation, AAPC requires either one year of experience or an 80-hour coding course.
• The CBCS from NHA is designed for entry-level billing and coding specialists, centering on insurance claims, reimbursement, ICD-10-CM, and CPT basics. The 100-question exam is available at PSI testing centers and does not require membership or prior experience. According to the NHA's 2025 Industry Outlook Report, 61% of employers require certification, making it a major advantage when applying for jobs.
• The CCS from AHIMA is the benchmark for inpatient hospital coding, covering ICD-10-CM, ICD-10-PCS, and CPT. The exam includes real-world coding scenarios and is more challenging. AHIMA recommends prior coding experience for CCS eligibility.

"Choosing between CPC, CCS, and CBCS is career strategy, not preference. The right choice depends on your target setting – physician practice versus hospital versus billing – how fast you want to enter the workforce, and the depth you are ready to master."

– Fabian Warislohner from the Advanced Medical Billing and Coding Institute

Hear From One of Our Students

True Cost of Medical Billing and Coding Certification

Exam fees are only part of the total cost. For the CPC, AAPC charges $399 for the exam and $205 annually for membership, with study materials adding $100–$300. Renewal requires 36 continuing education units (CEUs) every two years. The CBCS is the most affordable at $125, with no required annual membership, and renewal costs $55 with 10 CE hours every two years. The CCS costs $399 for non-members or $299 for members, with AHIMA membership at $135 per year. Renewal requires 20 CEUs every two years.

Certified professionals earn significantly more. According to the AAPC 2025 Salary Survey, certified coders average $66,979 per year compared to $55,721 for those without certification.

Which Certification Should You Choose?

• Choose the CPC if you want to work in physician offices or outpatient clinics and pursue remote coding opportunities. Choose the CBCS for the most affordable and accessible entry point, especially for billing and claims roles.
• Choose the CCS if your goal is hospital inpatient coding or advanced auditing and compliance roles.

For more guidance, check out our articles on building a medical billing career, credentialing timelines, and medical billing certification exam pass rates.

Frequently Asked Questions and Answers

What Is the Main Difference Between the CPC, CBCS, and CCS Certifications?

The CPC focuses on outpatient and physician coding, the CBCS on billing and entry-level coding, and the CCS on hospital inpatient and outpatient coding.

Which Medical Coding Certification Is Best for Beginners?

The CBCS is generally best for beginners because it does not require prior coding experience and is the most affordable option.

Which Certification Do Employers Prefer for Hospital Coding Jobs?

Employers generally prefer the CCS for hospital coding jobs because it demonstrates advanced skills in inpatient and outpatient coding.

Can You Get More Than One Medical Coding Certification?

Yes, many coders hold multiple certifications to boost job options and salary. Holding both CPC and CCS can help qualify for more roles in both physician offices and hospitals.