The time to earn your PMP certification can vary based on factors like your professional experience, educational background, and the time you dedicate to preparation. This guide provides a comprehensive timeline to help you understand the steps involved and the time each step generally requires.
The Basics: Experience and Education Requirements
Achieving PMP certification requires a solid foundation in project management, which means you’ll need to meet a specific work experience requirement that depends on your educational background:
- Without a Four-Year Degree: If you don’t hold a bachelor’s degree, you’ll need 60 months (five years) of experience leading projects within the last eight years. This experience should cover each project management process group: initiating, planning, executing, monitoring and controlling, and closing.
- With a Four-Year Degree: If you have a bachelor’s degree, you’re required to have 36 months (three years) of experience in project leadership within the last eight years.
In addition to work experience, all candidates must complete 35 contact hours of professional development. This is often achieved through a PMP certification training course, although other professional development avenues such as college courses, workshops, or the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM)® credential can fulfill this requirement.
Step 1: Enroll in a PMP Certification Training Course (1-3 Months)
To gain your required contact hours, you’ll need to complete a PMP certification training course. Training options include both in-person and online courses, each with unique benefits:
- Online Courses: Often self-paced, online courses offer flexibility, allowing you to work through the material according to your own schedule.
- In-Person Courses: These courses usually follow a structured timeline and offer interactive benefits such as peer discussions and direct instructor feedback.
Completing this step typically takes between one to three months, depending on whether the course is intensive or spread out.
Step 2: Apply for the PMP Exam (1 Week)
After completing your training, the next step is to apply for the PMP certification exam. You’ll fill out an application through the Project Management Institute (PMI) website, which should only take a couple of hours if you have all your documentation ready. PMI typically reviews applications within three to five business days, during which they may approve your application or, in some cases, select it for an audit.
If your application is selected for an audit, you’ll need to provide documentation of your work experience and contact hours, and you’ll have 90 days to submit these materials.
Step 3: Schedule Your Exam Date (1-3 Months)
Once PMI approves your application, you’ll receive a unique ID that allows you to schedule your exam. PMI suggests scheduling the exam well in advance to secure a spot on your desired date.
The PMP exam can be taken at an in-person testing center or online. In either case, it includes 180 multiple-choice questions covering various project management principles and best practices. You have up to four hours to complete the exam, with two 10-minute breaks for those taking it online.
Step 4: Study and Prepare for the PMP Exam (1-6 Months)
This stage is highly variable, as study time depends on your familiarity with project management principles and personal study habits. Here are some common approaches for preparing for the PMP exam:
- PMI-Authorized Training Partners: Many candidates use PMI-authorized resources, including prep courses and practice tests, to gain a structured, guided approach to studying.
- Self-Study: Some individuals prefer self-study using the PMBOK® Guide and other recommended resources.
- Practice Exams: Many professionals recommend taking practice exams, such as PMI’s authorized $99 PMP prep test. Scoring at least 75% on practice tests is a commonly suggested target, although PMI does not publicly state a passing score for the actual exam.
Depending on your available study time and learning preferences, this step can take anywhere from one to six months.
Step 5: Take the PMP Certification Exam
Once you’re ready, the final step is to take the PMP certification exam. The cost for the exam is $425 for PMI members and $595 for non-members. Since the exam is demanding, many candidates find it helpful to simulate the exam environment during practice sessions to build familiarity and reduce test-day anxiety.
Step 6: Retake the PMP Exam if Necessary (Additional 1-3 Months)
Not everyone passes the PMP exam on their first attempt. If you don’t succeed, you’re allowed up to three attempts within one year from the time your application is approved. Retake fees are $375 for non-members and $275 for PMI members. It’s common to use any time between retakes to focus on areas that may need additional study.
Typical Timeline Overview
For most candidates, here’s an estimated timeline:
- Professional Experience: 3-5 years (based on education level)
- PMP Training Course: 1-3 months
- PMP Exam Application and Approval: 1 week (plus up to 90 days if audited)
- Scheduling the Exam: 1-3 months
- Study and Preparation: 1-6 months
- PMP Exam: Complete within 1 year of application approval
- Retake(s) if Needed: Additional 1-3 months
Final Thoughts
From start to finish, most professionals complete the PMP certification process within a year once they meet the initial experience requirements. It’s a commitment, but with the right approach, preparation, and resources, such as those offered by ROSEMET LLC, you can streamline the process and position yourself for PMP success. Whether you're balancing work, studies, or family obligations, creating a realistic timeline that matches your lifestyle will make your PMP certification journey both achievable and rewarding.
