What does it take to become
a Certified Addictions Counselor?

There are two basic components to the requirements:

• Education - ADAD Approved training and workshops
• Experience - Work/Field Experience

The amount of training and field experience necessary to become a CAC depends on which level of certification the student will be applying for.

The three levels of CAC certification are:

• Level I - assistant counselor
• Level II - independent counselor
• Level III - clinical supervisor

* For a detailed description of the duties and responsibilities of a CAC counselor for each level of certification, please click on the following link. This link takes you to ADAD's CAC counselor regulations which set out the responsibilities, duties, and requirements for each level of CAC. You should thoroughly read this document.

Addiction Counselor Certification and Licensure Standards (6 CCR 1008-3)

What CAC training, and how much work experience is mandated to become a certified addiction counselor?

The amount of training/education required depends upon the CAC level to which the student is applying. In order to apply for a CAC level II, the student must complete all the level I and level II training. To apply for level III, the student must complete all the level I, II and III training.

The same rule applies to the amount of work experience required. Certification for CACI requires 1000 hrs. of work experience, CACII requires an additional 2000 hrs (3000 total), and CACIII another 2000 hrs (5000 total).