COVID-related testing information:

Testing candidates: Most Pearson Professional Centers (PPCs) are open for exam delivery. We also continue to deliver exams to any third-party test centers (PVTC and PVTC Selects) with the ability to operate, though some may be operating at limited or changed capacity based on their own discretion or in response to government mandates.

Visit our COVID-19 information page (Opens in new window) for the latest information regarding exam requirements, health and safety practices, and any country-specific policies. For information on rescheduling, refunds, and more, please review our FAQs.

    To schedule, reschedule or cancel an exam:

    ABD Examinations

    ABD Examinations

    The American Board of Dermatology (ABD) is one of 24 medical specialty boards that make up the American Board of Medical Specialties. The ABD was incorporated in 1932 to elevate and maintain the standards of this specialty. The mission of the ABD is to serve the public by setting high standards for dermatologists to earn and maintain Board certification. The American Board of Dermatology is a voluntary, non-profit, private, autonomous organization formed for the primary purpose of protecting the public interest by establishing and maintaining high standards of training, education and qualifications of physicians rendering care in dermatology. The objective of all of its activities is to provide assurance that a diplomate of the Board possesses and maintains the knowledge and skills essential for the provision of superior, specialized care to patients with cutaneous diseases.

    Exam Scheduling

    IMPORTANT: Candidates for ABD exams will receive instructions for scheduling a Pearson VUE exam appointment from the ABD. Instructions will be sent after the ABD reviews and approves the applications for each exam. Candidates are unable to schedule a Pearson VUE appointment until the ABD furnishes them with instructions for doing so.

    2022 Exam Dates

    CORE Examination (for Dermatology Residents)

    Late Winter delivery dates: Thursday February 10 through Saturday, February 19

    Summer delivery dates: Thursday July 14 through Saturday, July 23

    Fall delivery dates: Thursday November 3 through Saturday, November 12

    Candidates take the exam via Pearson VUE’s OnVUE online proctored in a private, secure location, using a webcam-equipped computer. Create an account and schedule an appointment »

    For candidates without access to a properly equipped computer, a limited number of appointments are available at Pearson VUE Professional Centers. Create an account and schedule an appointment »

    MOC/Recertification Examination (for Diplomates of the ABD)

    Spring delivery dates: April 1 - May 31
    Fall delivery dates: September 1 - October 31

    Candidates take the exam one of two ways:

    1. At a Pearson VUE Professional Center. Create an account and schedule an appointment.
      ~or~
    2. In a private, secure location, using a webcam-equipped computer, via OnVUE online proctored (aka Remote Proctor). Create an account and schedule an appointment »

    APPLIED Exam (for graduated Dermatology Residents who passed the 4 CORE Exam modules)

    Delivery date: Friday, July 22

    Candidates take the exam at a Pearson VUE Professional Center. Create an account and schedule an appointment.

    Certification Exam (for graduated Dermatology Residents (prior to 2021) on the traditional certification pathway)

    Delivery date: Wednesday, July 13

    Candidates take the exam at a Pearson VUE Professional Center. Create an account and schedule an appointment.

    MDS Exam (for Diplomates of the ABD, seeking subspecialty certification)

    Delivery date: Thursday, September 22

    Candidates take the exam at a Pearson VUE Professional Center. Create an account and schedule an appointment.

    Pediatric Dermatology Subspecialty Examination (for Diplomates of the ABD, seeking subspecialty certification)

    Delivery date: Thursday, October 13

    Candidates take the exam at a Pearson VUE Professional Center. Create an account and schedule an appointment.

    Last updated 2021-11-30