Candidates earn certification by demonstrating readiness through teaching and applied skills. Currently available only in English. Applications are accepted year-round, with a typical review period of 60–90 days.
Certification is awarded upon successful completion of all pathway requirements.
Please see the Candidate Guide below for the application link and all required forms.
Lamaze International is pleased to offer the Competency-Based Certification Pathway as a second option for earning the Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator (LCCE) credential. Both the Certification Exam Pathway and the Competency-Based Certification Pathway lead to the same respected LCCE credential.
What is the Competency-Based Certification Pathway?
The Competency-Based Certification Pathway is an alternative route to becoming an LCCE. It allows candidates to demonstrate readiness through teaching skills, curriculum development, applied knowledge, and professional competence rather than through a certification exam.
Why did Lamaze create this pathway?
Lamaze recognizes that qualified educators demonstrate readiness in different ways. Some candidates demonstrate competence more effectively through applied teaching, curriculum design, and professional demonstration than through standardized testing.
How do I decide whether to choose the exam or the competency-based pathway?
Choose the pathway that best matches how you demonstrate readiness. Candidates who prefer standardized testing may choose the exam. Candidates who prefer applied teaching, curriculum design, and demonstration of skills may prefer the competency-based pathway. Both pathways lead to the same LCCE credential.
What are the requirements before I apply?
- Complete a Lamaze-accredited seminar within the past three years
- Complete the Lamaze Learning Guide
- Observation of one full Lamaze class series taught by an LCCE
- Development of a childbirth education curriculum
- Teaching demonstration
- Application fee payment
What happens after I submit my application?
- Staff will review your application for completeness.
- Your application will be reviewed by a FACCE, Fellow of the Academy of Certified Childbirth Educators.
- If approved to move on, you will be scheduled for a final verbal assessment.
- Once everything is completed and competency has been demonstrated, you will earn your LCCE credential.
What is observation of a full Lamaze class series?
A full class series means the complete set of classes taught to the same group of learners, not just one class session. Observation may be completed in person or live virtually.
How do I find a Lamaze class to observe?
Use the Lamaze Find a Class directory to locate classes taught by Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educators, LCCEs: https://my.lamaze.org/find-a-class.
Please contact the educator directly to ask whether they are willing to allow observation of a full class series. Observation arrangements are made directly between the candidate and the educator. We encourage candidates to reach out early, as class schedules vary.
What is the verbal assessment?
The verbal assessment is a supportive, structured conversation focused on your readiness to teach. It includes questions based on the Lamaze Learning Guide and practical application of knowledge. It may take place by Zoom or phone.
How much does it cost?
The application fee is $500, the same fee as the certification exam pathway. If you previously attempted the exam, the discounted retake fee of $170 for members or $270 for nonmembers will be applied to the Competency-Based Certification Pathway instead of retaking the exam.
When can I apply?
Applications for the Competency-Based Certification Pathway open August 3, 2026. Applications will be accepted year-round.
How long does the review process take?
Applications are reviewed monthly. Most candidates can expect results within 60 to 90 days, depending on completeness and scheduling of the verbal assessment.
How do I submit my application?
Applications are submitted through one online SurveyMonkey application where candidates upload all required materials. See the candidate guide.
Competency-Based Pathway Guide
What happens if my application is incomplete?
Incomplete applications may delay review. Candidates are encouraged to gather all materials before beginning the application.
If I did not pass the exam previously, can I choose this pathway?
Yes. Candidates who were previously unsuccessful on the exam may choose to retake the exam or pursue the Competency-Based Certification Pathway.
Will my certificate say which pathway I used?
No. Both pathways lead to the same Lamaze Certified Childbirth Educator, LCCE, credential.
Can international candidates apply?
Yes. Lamaze welcomes qualified candidates globally, however applications can only be submitted in English.
Is this available in other languages?
The initial rollout is in English. Lamaze’s goal is to expand the pathway to Spanish after launch and lessons learned.
Where can I get help?