Credential type: school examination · verified on the issuer's site September 19, 2026 issuer page
Exam Domains
1 Foundations of American Democracy18%
2 Interactions Among Branches of Government30%
3 Civil Liberties and Civil Rights16%
4 American Political Ideologies and Beliefs12%
5 Political Participation24%
Exam Details
Question TypesMultiple Choice, Free Response
FormatPaper-based; two sections: multiple choice and free response. Administered at school in May. AP Studio Art/Drawing: portfolio submission. AP Research/Seminar: academic paper and oral presentation.
Online ProctoringNot available
ID RequirementsSchool ID or government-issued photo ID required. Name on registration must match ID exactly.
RenewalNot required -- AP scores never expire; once earned, scores are valid indefinitely.
Retake PolicyAP exams are offered once per year in May. Students may retake the exam in a subsequent year; there is no same-year retake. Scores from all attempts are reported to colleges unless the student requests score cancellation.