The AAPC Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) exam is a 100-question, multiple-choice test with a 4-hour time limit and a 70% passing score, designed for coders who work in hospital outpatient departments, ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), and facility billing environments. Formerly known as the CPC-H, the COC credential validates your ability to apply CPT, HCPCS Level II, and ICD-10-CM codes in facility settings — and with outpatient services now accounting for the majority of hospital revenue, demand for COC-certified coders continues to grow.
This guide answers 20 of the most common questions about the COC exam, organized by eligibility, format, study preparation, COC vs. CPC differences, and career value.
COC Exam at a Glance — Key Facts (2026)
|
Attribute |
Detail |
|---|---|
|
Full Name |
Certified Outpatient Coder (COC) |
|
Certifying Body |
American Academy of Professional Coders (AAPC) |
|
Formerly Known As |
CPC-H (Certified Professional Coder — Hospital) |
|
Total Questions |
100 multiple-choice |
|
Time Limit |
4 hours |
|
Passing Score |
Healthcare coding continues to evolve as outpatient services become more complex and reimbursement models demand greater accuracy. For professionals seeking to validate their outpatient coding expertise, the coc aapc certification is one of the most respected credentials in the healthcare industry.
