> Certified Public Fleet Professional (CPFP) Update
> Important Information About the Current CPFP Program
> Important Information About the Public Fleet Management Certificate
> Public Fleet Management Manual
New Credentialing Strategy
APWA’s credentialing program supports its strategic goal of providing excellence in workforce development, education, and credentialing. Keeping APWA’s credentialing programs aligned with current industry trends and responsive to the evolving needs of public works professionals is critical. In 2024, APWA conducted a comprehensive Needs Analysis and Value of Certification study to evaluate how its credentialing offerings compare with best practices in the credentialing industry and how they could be enhanced to effectively meet the needs of the public works profession. Building on these findings, a third-party consultant conducted additional research in 2025 to inform and refine APWA’s Credentialing Strategy.
The new Credentialing Strategy introduces stackable credentials consisting of microcredentials—smaller, focused credentials that you can earn individually or combine toward certification.
Here’s what this means for you:
- Career-Relevant Learning: Microcredentials are designed to reflect the evolving skills needed in today’s public works roles, helping you stay current and competitive.
- Education-First Approach: A stackable credential combines education and measurable assessments to verify skill development and knowledge application for all learners.
- Flexible and Accessible: Microcredentials offer a more affordable and accessible alternative to traditional education and certification, with easier ways to earn, share, and verify your achievements.
- Real-World Relevance: Expect more case studies and simulations that mirror the diverse environments public works professionals work in, helping you immediately apply your new skills and knowledge.
- Stronger Connections: Educational experiences will include networking opportunities to help you build lasting professional relationships.
- Employer-Aligned: Employers increasingly value demonstrable, job-relevant competencies. This new structure makes it easier for them to support your learning—financially and professionally.
This new approach is designed to meet you where you are in your career and help you move forward with confidence.
Certified Public Fleet Professional (CPFP) Update
The Certified Public Fleet Professional (CPFP) is being updated as part of APWA’s new credentialing strategy. The updated CPFP program is set to debut in 2027 and will feature a series of three microcredentials, each designed to build your knowledge while offering flexibility and recognition along the way. Each microcredential will be based on the results of the 2026 Public Fleet Management Job Task Analysis and Content Outline.
- Public Fleet Operations and Safety
- Public Fleet Financial and Asset Management
- Public Fleet Project and Data Management
Join the email list to receive ongoing updates.
Call for Volunteers
If you are a public fleet subject matter expert, APWA needs you. Volunteers are needed to help develop educational materials and exam writing items for each microcredential. Work will occur throughout 2026 and 2027. As we prepare to begin work on each microcredential, we will contact those interested with details on volunteer expectations and anticipated time commitment to confirm continued interest in participating.
To volunteer, use this form.
Important Information About the Current CPFP Program
For Current CPFP Credential Holders
If you’ve already earned the Certified Public Fleet Professional (CPFP) credential and maintain it through regular recertification, your credential will remain valid and recognized under the new model. There will be no change to your certification status; you will continue to be a Certified Public Fleet Professional (CPFP).
Eligibility Applications for the Current Program
If you’re planning to apply under the current CPFP certification model, please note:
- Eligibility applications will be accepted through December 31, 2026.
- After this date, applications will pause until the new stackable CPFP program launches in late 2027.
- This transition period ensures that all eligible applicants have time to complete the current exam process.
Important Information About the Public Fleet Management Certificate
The Public Fleet Management Certificate is being updated and will transition into a series of microcredentials. If you previously completed the Public Fleet Management Certificate, you will retain your certificate for that program. However, due to significant updates in both educational content and assessment methods, this certificate will not qualify as completion of any of the new microcredentials.
Public Fleet Management Manual
The Public Fleet Management Manual is currently being developed based on the new CPFP Content Outline. This manual will replace Managing Public Equipment and the Public Fleet Management Training Course. The manual will be used as a resource for the new microcredential programs and is expected to be released in 2027.
Credential Types Comparison
