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Interest in prior learning recognition among Canadian adults is estimated on the basis of a large-scale national survey and illustrated by an account of the development of a prior learning assessment centre and the individual experiences of participants. Both the common principles and the distinctive activities that characterise the prior learning assessment and recognition (PLAR) field are considered. The survey finds widespread interest in PLAR, especially in the employed labour force, and large unmet demand for both adult education courses and PLAR. There are significant demographic differences: younger adults are much more interested in PLAR regardless of their formal educational attainment, as are non-whites and recent immigrants. Those most involved in informal learning activities have the greatest interest in PLAR, most notably young high school dropouts. Policy implications of these findings and experiences for wider application of PLAR are considered.