AKC Professional Grooming Credential
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What is the Professional Grooming Credential (PGC)?
The Professional Grooming Credential (PGC) establishes a new benchmark for professionalism in the pet grooming industry. While the credential doesn’t serve as an endorsement of an individual, it signifies that the groomer has completed a rigorous program and demonstrated standardized knowledge and skills. By evaluating standards of care, safety, and grooming competencies, the PGC designation recognizes those who exemplify best practices in every aspect of their career.
How Does the PGC Compare to Other Grooming Certifications?
The PGC Exam is the first standardized, third-party proctored examination for groomers in the United States. It measures essential competencies in safety, professionalism, and industry best practices. Developed using a comprehensive job task analysis and led by psychometric experts, the PGC is designed to complement and support other grooming certifications by ensuring core standards are met across the profession.
What is Tested in the PGC Examination?
The PGC Exam covers a wide range of topics to ensure a comprehensive assessment of grooming knowledge and practices:
Professional Dog Groomer Safety: 12%
Pet Safety Professional Practices: 12%
Safe and Humane Handling of Pets: 12%
Safe and Humane Behavior Management: 12%
Dog Grooming Sanitation Procedures: 13%
Description and Physical Characteristics of Dogs: 13%
Professional Pet Grooming Practices: 13%
Professionalism and Business Soft Skills: 13%
How Were the Exam Topics Chosen?
The PGC exam is based on the American Kennel Club (AKC) National Core Professional Dog Grooming Educational Standards, designed to establish clear and evolving expectations for professional groomers. These standards include six educational domains and eight core objectives, reflecting input from industry leaders like the Professional Pet Groomers and Stylists Alliance.
Exam Format
Questions: 100 multiple-choice questions
Format: Live remote proctoring with a 3-hour time limit
Why Pursue the PGC Credential?
Personal Achievement: Validate your knowledge and skills with a credential that reflects rigorous standards.
Lifelong Learning: Maintain your credential with 25 hours of Continuing Education every five years, staying current with industry trends.
Marketing Advantage: The AKC promotes PGC-certified groomers, giving you a competitive edge.
Elevate the Profession: Certification helps raise the standard, moving the field toward a future where only qualified professionals can call themselves groomers.
Am I Eligible to Apply for the PGC Exam?
You can qualify for the exam through one of three pathways:
1. Work Experience
At least 360 hours of verifiable grooming experience within the past 18 months.
Examples of verification:
Business or employer references
Licenses
2. Education
25 hours of verified grooming education in the past five years.
180 hours of hands-on experience in a salon or similar environment.
Examples of verification:
Receipts, badge scans, or instructor authorization
Certification through recognized organizations (e.g., AKC, NDGAA)
3. Relevant Experience
At least 240 hours of verifiable grooming experience in the past five years.
Examples of verification:
Competition history or show experience
Published industry content
Event speaking, judging, or educator roles
By earning the PGC Credential, you join a community of groomers dedicated to professional excellence and advancing the grooming industry.
View AKC PGC Resource guide here
For system expectations and more information on the PGC Exam click here:
Exam will remain locked until application is approved by AKC Admins.
Please contact Groomer@akc.org with questions.