The exam is only open to those with the right educational and professional background. Before you will be allowed to register for the exam, you need to provide proof that you meet the following eligibility criteria: Hold a Master’s Degree in addiction/substance use disorders and/or a related counseling subject such as psychology, mental health counseling, or social work. Currently licensed or credentialed as either a substance use disorder/addiction counselor or as a similar professional counselor. Have at least three years or 6,000 hours of full-time, supervised experience working as a substance use disorder/addiction counselor. Have completed at least 500 hours of training and education in substance use disorders and addiction (where at least 50% of that training was face-to-face). If you meet the criteria above, you can apply for the MAC exam online by completing an application form and providing the necessary documents to prove you meet the eligibility requirements. Along with this, you will need to pay the $235 exam fee.