Step 1: Select an Application Category
The first step in making an application is determining which application category best fits you. There are several application categories and requirements differ depending on which category of application you make.
Regular - A Regular application is intended for applicants who typically have not yet been licensed in any jurisdiction and do not fall within the Reciprocal, Mobility or Temporary categories. This includes applicants who have never been licensed or registered anywhere, applicants who are not currently licensed or registered to practice in another jurisdiction, and applicants currently licensed or registered to practice elsewhere but who do not meet the eligibility requirements of the Reciprocal or Mobility categories.
Reciprocal – A Reciprocal application is intended for any applicant currently licensed or registered for active practice in another Canadian jurisdiction, without limitation or restriction on practice (examples of limitations and restrictions include, but are not limited to, “out of province”, “retired” or “inactive” status or other limitations, restrictions or conditions on an applicant's entitlement to practice as a registered psychologist).
In accordance with the British Columbia Labour Mobility Act, the College of Psychologists of British Columbia will continue to process applications from registered psychologists and registered psychological associates currently registered in another jurisdiction in Canada as required by the provisions of that Act and Chapter Seven of the Agreement on Internal Trade (AIT).
Mobility – A Mobility application is intended for applicants currently licensed or registered for active practice in any jurisdiction outside Canada (e.g., the United States), without any limitations or restrictions on practice (examples of limitations and restrictions include, but are not limited to, “out of state”, “retired” or “inactive” status) and who is either currently registered with the National Register of Health Service Providers in Psychology (NRHSPP) or currently holding a Certificate of Professional Qualification (CPQ) issued by the Association of State and Provincial Psychology Boards (ASPPB).
Temporary - A Temporary application is intended for applicants currently licensed or registered for active practice in another jurisdiction, and wishing to practice in British Columbia on a temporary basis.
Step 2: Download Application Package Materials
Applicants may download an application package at no cost. Please visit the Application Forms section of this website.
Step 3: Submit Materials and Fees
Attach all required documents and return the completed and notarized Application Form, with attachments, to the following address: College of Psychologists of British Columbia, 404‐1755 West Broadway, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada V6J 4S5.
Check the Fee Schedule to ensure you have enclosed the appropriate fees with your materials.
Applicants will be notified once the College has received their application.
Step 4: Document Collection, File Review and Examinations
Applicants are solely responsible for ensuring that all required forms and supporting documents are delivered to the College, including required documentation from third parties (e.g., transcripts, references, other professional and academic records, etc.). Applications are processed upon receipt of all necessary documentation.
Applications are initially reviewed to consider whether the applicant’s training and credentials satisfy the applicable registration requirements, and to identify any areas requiring clarification or further information. Once questions regarding an applicant’s eligibility have been addressed to the satisfaction of the Registration Committee, the Committee will grant permission in writing to the applicant to proceed to examinations.
Applicants who graduated from non-traditional training programs (e.g., non-CPA- or APA-accredited programs) may expect additional questions from the Registration Committee to assist in its assessment of how the applicant’s training meets the registration requirements. This typically lengthens the registration process.
After an applicant successfully completes all required examinations, the application is brought before the Registration Committee to consider approval of registration, with limitations or conditions, as appropriate, in accordance with the then current requirements of the Health Professions Act and the College’s bylaws.
For more information about the required College examinations, please visit the Examinations and Workshops section of this website.
Step 5: Placement on the Register
Once the Registration Committee has made the decision to approve your registration, you will be asked to provide information for the Register and the Registration Fee. Upon receipt of your information for the register and fee, you will be issued a registration number and registration certificate.
