The professional certification program was strongly supported by CAP members and was approved at the 1997 AGM. The program grants applicants, who meet the requirements described below, the right to use the federally-trademarked designation "Professional Physicist" or "P. Phys." The parallel French-language version of the designation, "phys", was introduced shortly thereafter. The "Professional Physicist" designation certifies that the holder has met a set of academic and professional requirements established by CAP, and that he or she upholds CAP's code of professional ethics and conduct. It is not essential that physicists have the P. Phys designation in order to practice physics. However, CAP anticipates that the designation will become a de facto professional standard held in high regard by physicists. The designation gives employers and the public improved assurance of competence, and enhances the holders' professional credibility.

The right to use the designation is granted by way of licence from CAP, which owns the designation via a federal trademark. Individuals who do not receive the right from CAP will not be able to use the designation, and CAP has the right to pursue legal action for its unauthorized use.