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CME Credit Types Explained

When a board asks for Category 1 hours, the credit type printed on the certificate decides whether a course counts.

Last reviewed November 1, 2026. General information, not legal or compliance advice.

Physician credit

Many boards specify AMA PRA Category 1 Credit, and some accept equivalent credit such as that awarded for certain AAFP activities. Category 2 credit generally covers self-reported or informal learning and is accepted by some boards only up to a limit, if at all.

Osteopathic credit

Osteopathic physicians have a separate credit system with its own categories, and some boards accept AMA credit for DO licensees and some require AOA credit. See the state page for your board, and confirm.

Other professions

Nurse practitioners, physician assistants, nurse anesthetists and anesthesiologist assistants use credit types set by their certifying bodies and by state boards. For example, some PA credit is described as AMA Category 1 and some NP certification credit is counted in contact hours.

Where to check

The certificate should state the credit type, the hours and the accredited provider. If it does not, ask the provider before you rely on it.

Limits of this guide

Rules and fees change, and this guide is general information, so confirm the details with the relevant board or agency before you act.