image
Knowledge Train

What is PMP Certification? | How to Get Project Management Professional Certified

PMP certification is a globally recognised qualification for project managers, awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It demonstrates advanced knowledge and experience in project management and is highly valued across multiple industries worldwide.
What is PMP Certification? | How to Get Project Management Professional Certified
Contents

Introduction to PMP Certification

The Project Management Professional (PMP) certification is an advanced credential awarded by the Project Management Institute (PMI) to project managers who demonstrate skills in leading and directing projects. Recognised globally, PMP certification verifies expertise in project management methodologies, including predictive, agile, and hybrid approaches. PMI’s standards, guided by the PMBOK Guide, ensure the knowledge stays aligned with industry best practices. (Source: PMI.org)

Key Facts: PMP Certification at a Glance

Certifying Body Project Management Institute (PMI)
Exam Length 230 minutes (3 hours, 50 minutes)
Number of Exam Questions 180 (multiple choice, multiple response, hotspot, and limited fill-in-the-blank)
Exam Fee USD $555 (non-member), USD $405 (PMI member)
Eligibility Requirements Education, work experience, project management education hours
Renewal Period Every 3 years
PDUs Required for Renewal 60 PDUs
Global Recognition Widely recognised in over 200 countries

PMP Certification Process: Step by Step

  1. Confirm PMP Eligibility: Check the necessary education, project management experience, and project management education hours (see table below).
  2. Gather Documentation: Collect details of your work experience and project management education.
  3. PMP Application Process: Submit your application via the PMI website. PMI may request documentation or select you for audit.
  4. Application Review: PMI reviews your submission, typically within 5 business days.
  5. Schedule Your Exam: Once approved, pay the PMP exam fee and schedule at an authorised test centre or online.
  6. Prepare for the Exam: Utilise exam preparation resources, such as PMI-authorised training partners (ATP), online courses, study groups, and the PMBOK Guide.
  7. Sit the PMP Exam: Complete the 180-question, computer-based test within 230 minutes.
  8. Achieve Certification: Upon passing, agree to the PMI Code of Ethics and accept your PMP credential.
  9. Certification Renewal: Earn 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs) every 3 years and pay the renewal fee to maintain your credential under PMI’s Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR).

PMP Eligibility Requirements

To apply for the PMP exam, you must satisfy criteria for education, work experience, and project management education. The table below outlines the two main qualification routes:

Educational Background Project Management Experience Project Management Education
Bachelor’s degree or global equivalent Minimum 36 months leading projects 35 contact hours (or a CAPM certification)
Secondary degree (A-levels, NVQ, or equivalent) Minimum 60 months leading projects 35 contact hours

The 35 contact hours of project management education can be achieved through classroom, online, or self-paced courses from PMI-authorised training partners or other reputable providers.

PMP Exam Structure and Details

  • Format: 180 questions (multiple choice, multiple response, hotspot, and fill-in-the-blank)
  • Exam Duration: 230 minutes
  • Question Allocation: Approximately 50 percent predictive project management approaches, 50 percent agile or hybrid approaches
  • Reference Guide: PMBOK Guide (Project Management Body of Knowledge)
  • Pass Rate: PMI does not publish official pass rates; average estimates from training partners suggest around 60–70 percent
  • Languages: Offered in English and multiple other languages

How to Prepare for the PMP Exam

  • Read the latest PMBOK Guide from PMI
  • Enrol in a course from a PMI-authorised training partner (ATP)
  • Take online mock exams and practice questions
  • Join study groups with other PMP candidates
  • Use PMI’s official digital learning resources
  • Review agile methodologies and hybrid concepts

PMP Certification Renewal and Maintenance

PMP certification requires renewal every three years. You must earn 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs) in line with PMI’s Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR) to demonstrate ongoing professional development. Activities to earn PDUs include training, volunteering, and work in project management.

Comparison: PMP vs Other Project Management Certifications

Certification Issued By Target Audience Requirements Focus Global Recognition
PMP PMI Experienced project managers Degree + experience + PM education Predictive, Agile, and Hybrid methods High
CAPM PMI Entry-level project professionals Secondary degree + PM education Project management fundamentals Medium
PRINCE2 AXELOS Project managers (global, with UK focus) None for Foundation; experience for Practitioner Process-based methodology High in UK, Europe

Recognised Value of PMP Certification

The PMP credential is widely regarded as the gold standard in project management. It demonstrates a commitment to professional excellence, adherence to PMI’s Code of Ethics, and proficiency in running complex projects. PMP holders typically earn higher salaries and have better career prospects, according to various salary surveys and employment data.

FAQs

What are the eligibility requirements for the PMP certification?

PMP applicants need either a secondary degree with at least 60 months of project leadership experience or a bachelor’s degree with 36 months’ project experience. Both paths require 35 contact hours of project management education or CAPM certification.

How long does it take to get a PMP certification?

The timeline varies. Preparing the application and gathering documents typically takes 1–2 weeks. Exam preparation ranges from several weeks to a few months, depending on prior knowledge. Overall, most candidates achieve certification within 3–6 months.

How valuable is the PMP certification?

PMP certification holds high global recognition, often leading to improved job prospects and higher earning potential. It validates advanced project management skills, which are sought after in many industries worldwide.

What is the cost of the PMP exam?

As of 2024, the PMP exam costs USD $555 for non-PMI members and USD $405 for PMI members. Additional costs may include training, study materials, or membership fees.

How difficult is the PMP exam?

The PMP exam is considered challenging, requiring a deep understanding of project management concepts, terminology, and practical application. The average pass rate is estimated at 60–70 percent; thorough preparation is essential.

How is the PMP maintained after passing?

To maintain the credential, you must earn 60 PDUs every three years by engaging in professional development activities and submit the renewal fee through PMI’s Continuing Certification Requirements programme.

Where can I find official PMP resources and guidance?

Comprehensive information, applications, and official study materials are available at PMI.org. The PMBOK Guide and PMI’s authorised training partners are authoritative sources of exam preparation.

IT Learning Library™ online training

PMP certification for project management professionals

PMP certification is a recognised certification for project management professionals. The PMP certification exam is based on the PMBOK and measures a candidate’s project management skills and knowledge. It is issued by the Project Management Institute (PMI), which also offers other management certification programs like PgMP. Those seeking a certified PMP or certified project manager status must meet PMP certification requirements, including 35 hours of project management training and relevant management experience within the past 5 years. PMI certification, including PMI PMP certification and professional certification options, is in demand from employers worldwide.

Certified project management professional and PMP credentials

Certified project management professionals gain PMP credentials by completing PM certification, PM certification training, and passing the PMP certification exam. PMP training includes PMP classes, PMP courses, PMP lessons, PMP study guides, and PMP exam prep with PMP practice exams. Candidates can take a PMP online course or attend project management classes to prepare. A project management cert or project management certification increases opportunities for career advancement and is highly valued by organisations.

The value of PMP credential in management

The PMP credential validates expertise in project management, risk management, business analysis, and project delivery. The certification exam covers methodologies, risk management, and managing teams, budgets, and projects. Each certified project management professional must maintain their credential through ongoing professional development and PDUs. Management professional certification programs are structured to meet the needs of project managers in different fields, industries, and locations.

PMBOK certification and project management training

PMBOK certification, project management professional certification, and certified associate in project management are just some of the project management certifications available. PMP certs are recognised by academic institutions, governments, and businesses. Project management training helps candidates build skills in planning, scheduling, risk identification, and project closure. The examination process is outlined in the PMP handbook and requires candidates to complete the application process, pay the fee, and register for the exam.

PMP certified professionals and industry impact

Employers prefer PMP certified professionals for their ability to manage projects, teams, and risks effectively. PMP certification holders demonstrate advanced knowledge of project management tools, frameworks, and strategic delivery. Maintaining PMP certification ensures continued growth, relevance, and impact in the project management field.

This website use cookies.

OK