A system and method is disclosed for providing a clock and data recovery circuit with a self test capability. A test control unit is provided that causes the clock and data recovery circuit to continuously alter a phase of an interpolated clock signal. A user selects a preselected bit pattern that causes the digital control circuitry of the clock and data recovery circuit to advance or retard the phase of the interpolated clock signal. The test control unit compares the advanced or retarded phase of the interpolated clock signal with a reference clock signal to determine a frequency difference between the two clock signals. The test control unit uses the frequency difference to determine the test status of the clock and data recovery circuit.