The National Doula Certification Board is the regulatory agency that sets the standard for the professional practice, training, and learning outcomes of the doula profession. At present, we are the only doula certifying organziation seeking accreditation in the United States.

What is a Certified Professional Doula (CPD)?

The Certified Professional Doula (CPD) credential serves as an individual's qualification to work as a professional doula by providing physical, emotional and informational support.

How to become a doula?

In order to become a Certified Professional Doula (CPD), doula training is required via Pathway 1 or Pathway 2 (see doulaboard.org for details), followed by an exam, and an official doula certification. Once training is complete, applicants may apply to take the CPD Certification Exam. To apply to take the CPD Certification Exam please select "Applications" from the dropdown menu below and click "Apply" under the Application for CPD Intital Certification. You must first sign in or create an account.