We paid $10 for it, and sent in $5 to the AKC for the official certificate. It was actually really easy. . . Gonzo passed the first time, so easily, and he is far from therapy dog material ! But, I would recommend finding a trainer that you know and trust to give the test, which we did. I know this lady with a super sweet older Golden Retriever who she wanted to be a therapy dog, and she went to a pet store for the test, and the tester was wierd and waay too strict with the dogs... she said he waved a walker at the dog and screamed and ran at him for the "distractions" part of the test, and her dog barked so they banned him from CGC testing. So, anyway, I would definitely try to find an organization that you trust to give the test. Basically, it's just simple dog etiquette, down-stays, simple commands, being decent with another dog passing, and allowing a stranger to handle him. Nothing big good luck with your future Catahoula!!