How long will it take after I pass the EPE before I can actually start practising as an RCIC?
This is probably one of the most common questions we receive from EPE candidates.
The short answer: there is no fixed timeline.
Passing the EPE is a major milestone, but your EPE result alone does not authorize you to practise. After passing, you still need to initiate and complete the licensing/application process with CICC.
There are several stages involved which are explained here , and the overall timeline depends on both you and CICC.
You will be responsible for submitting the required documents, information and, where requested, additional explanations. CICC, on the other hand, must review and verify your submissions before clearing you to proceed through the applicable stages.
Some documents may also take longer than expected to obtain. For example:
- Police clearance certificates may be delayed;
- Employment-related documents may take additional time, particularly if you intend to register and practise through an employer rather than establish your own practice; and
- CICC may request further documents, clarification or explanations depending on your circumstances.
Another important stage is the Good Conduct Good Character assessment. Depending on the circumstances, verification may involve third parties, which can add additional time to the process.
⏳ So, how long should you realistically expect?
Based on our observation (out of our students who have successfully become RCICs), a reasonable practical estimate has been approximately:
👉 3–5 months from the time you START the licensing/application process — not from the date your EPE result is published.
That distinction is very important.
Your EPE result being published does not automatically start your licensing process. You need to initiate the application process to become a member/licensee of CICC.
If you receive your Letter of Authority (LOA) within 3 months, consider yourself extremely fortunate!
If it takes more than 5 months, that can happen too. Every application is different, and there is no guarantee that your application will follow the average timeline we have observed.
Also, please don’t automatically blame CICC for a delay if the application is waiting on you to provide a document, clarification or explanation. Responding promptly to requests can make a significant difference.
⚠️ Most importantly: When can you actually start practising?
Do NOT begin practising simply because you passed the EPE or submitted your licensing application.
And do not assume that receiving an email or completing one of the licensing steps automatically means you are authorized to practise.
Before you start practising, check CICC’s Public Register.
Search for your name and RCIC ID and look at the field:
“Entitled to Practise” → YES ✅
Until it says “YES,” do not practise.
Passing the EPE gets you through the exam.
Being officially entitled to practise is what gets you into the profession. GOOD LUCK !!
