Skip to Main Content

Become an RPP

Registered Professional Planners (RPPs) are those who move beyond simply dreaming of inspired, sustainable and diverse communities and choose to start building tangible, actionable plans to bring them to fruition. They visualize an outcome that will benefit our communities for generations to come, and use their skills to bring many diverse opinions together. The result is an informed, inspired Ontario.

If you are of a like mind - passionate and practical with a firm belief in the benefits of a solid planning process in the public interest - your path to acquiring this expert, valued designation is mapped out below.

Also learn more about Accredited Programs & Student Scholarships in this section, as well as how to get involved in OPPI’s Student Liaison Committee. If you want to grow and enhance your experience, learn more about OPPI Membership options.

PATH TO RPP
CERTIFICATION

Step One

Complete your high school-level education, such as the Ontario Secondary School Diploma (OSSD) if you are originally from Ontario.

 

Step Two

Enroll in a degree program that is accredited by the Professional Standards Board for the Planning Profession in Canada (PSB)* In Ontario, six universities offer such programs:

Step Three

Become a Student Member while completing your studies! Student Members enjoy lower membership fees, networking and volunteer opportunities and continuing educational opportunities while completing their program. Student Members from accredited planning programs are also eligible for scholarships offered by OPPI.

 
 

Step Four

Once you have completed your accredited planning program and are working in a responsible planning role, apply to the Professional Standards Board to begin the certification process for a Candidate Membership. They will review your application and progress to date and contact OPPI. OPPI will then invite you to apply to become a Candidate Member.

Step Five

Complete the process to move from Candidate to Full Member. On average, many candidates may take three or more years to become an RPP. However, candidates have seven years to complete the certification process. If successful, you can begin practicing as a recognized Registered Professional Planner in Ontario!

 
OPPI Crest Logo

Step Six

Enjoy a career of varied and endless opportunity, in roles such as:

  • Junior/Senior Planner
  • Community Planner/Urban Designer/ Senior Urban Planner
  • Transportation Planner
  • Environmental Planner
  • Policy Advisor
  • Heritage Coordinator/Heritage Planner
  • Municipal Planner
  • Manager/Director of Planning

RPP

* If you hold an academic degree that is not in planning BUT you have a university degree and are currently working in a responsible planning role for five years or more, you can apply for Candidate Membership via the Prior Learning Assessment Recognition (PLAR) route.