What Are the Steps in the CAPM® Exam Registration Process?

By: Ryan Malaluan; Editor: Geram Lompon

Are you aiming to become a project manager or enhance your credentials to associate project manager with a recognized certification?

Pursuing the Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM®) certification is a strong step forward for anyone looking to advance their project management career. Offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI®), this certification demonstrates your commitment to project management and positions you as a competitive candidate in the job market.

To ensure a smooth registration process and successful preparation for the CAPM® exam, meeting the eligibility requirements and following key steps is essential.

Before registering, confirm that you meet the following prerequisites:

• Get a secondary degree, such as a high school diploma or equivalent.

• Have your project management education completed, taking at least 23 hours of formal education or training.

Meeting these requirements ensures a foundational understanding of the project management processes and principles, equipping you for success in the CAPM® certification journey.

Requirement	Details
Educational Background	Secondary degree (high school diploma, associate’s degree, or similar)
Project Management Education	At least 23 hours of project management learning (PMI®)

The registration process for the CAPM® certification might seem overwhelming at first, but breaking it down into manageable steps can simplify the journey. Each step is crucial in earning your certification, from exploring PMI®’s website to booking your exam date. With the right strategies and preparation, you’ll be well on your way to achieving the CAPM® and advancing your career in project management.

PMI® certifications are highly respected worldwide, and the CAPM® is an entry-level certification and an excellent starting point for entry-level project managers, students, or professionals transitioning into project management, including roles focused on risk management.

This certification enhances your resume and demonstrates your commitment to mastering foundational project management skills and concepts, making it ideal for entry-level project management roles.

Getting Started on PMI®

Preparing for your CAPM® exam? Here’s a clear and straightforward guide to help you navigate the process with the Project Management Institute (PMI®):

1. Create a PMI® Account
   Visit the PMI® website and create an account using your personal information. This account is essential for accessing CAPM® resources and certification details.

2. Verify Eligibility Requirements
   Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria:

   • A secondary degree (e.g., high school diploma, associate’s degree, or global equivalent).

   • Completion of 23 hours of formal project management education.
     For more information, check the CAPM® Requirements.

3. Submit Your Application
   Log in to your PMI® account and navigate to the CAPM® certification section.

   • Complete the application by providing details about your education and project management training.

   • Review your application thoroughly before submission.

4. Application Review
   PMI® will review your application, which typically takes about five business days.

   • Look out for email updates regarding the status of your application.

5. Pay the Exam Fee
   Once your application is approved, pay the exam fee. PMI® members enjoy discounted rates:

   • PMI® Member: $225

   • Non-Member: $300

   • Re-exam Fee: $150 (members) | $200 (non-members)

6. Receive Exam Eligibility ID
   After payment, you’ll receive an exam eligibility ID. This is required to schedule your exam.

By following these steps, you’ll be well-prepared to take the CAPM® exam and take a significant step toward achieving your project management professional career goals. For more details, visit the PMI® CAPM® page.

Paying the Exam Fee

Once your CAPM® exam application is approved, PMI® will email you detailed instructions on how to proceed with the payment. Here’s what you need to know about the exam fees:

Exam Fee Breakdown

The cost of the CAPM® exam varies depending on whether you are a PMI® member. Below is the fee structure:

Candidate Type	Exam Cost	Retake Cost
PMI® Member	$225	$150
Non-Member	$300	$200

Choosing PMI® Membership

You don’t need to be a PMI® member to take the CAPM® exam, but membership can provide valuable benefits as you explore project management. The annual membership fee is $129, with an additional $10 application fee for first-time applicants. Membership includes access to resources like the PMBOK® Guide, a critical exam preparation tool.

Payment Steps

1. Check Payment Instructions: Once your application is approved, you will receive an email from PMI® with payment details.

2. Log In to the Portal: Access your PMI® account. If you don’t already have one, create an account on PMI®’s official website.

3. Make the Payment: Follow the instructions to pay via credit card or another accepted method.

Retake Policy

If you don’t pass the exam on your first attempt, you have up to three attempts within one year. Retake fees are as follows:

• PMI® Member: $150

• Non-Member: $200

Summary Table

Here’s a breakdown of the fees associated with the CAPM® exam:

Fee Type	PMI® Member	Non-Member
Initial Exam Cost	$225	$300
Annual Membership Cost	$129 + $10	N/A
Retake Exam Cost	$150	$200

Understanding these costs will help you budget effectively for the CAPM® exam registration. Carefully evaluate membership benefits to determine what best aligns with your goals and financial plans.

Scheduling Your Exam

Setting up your CAPM® exam date is straightforward but requires careful attention to detail. Follow these steps to ensure a smooth booking process:

1. Receive Your Exam Code: Once your application is approved, PMI® will send you an email with a unique exam code. Keep this code handy as it is required to schedule your exam.

2. Visit Pearson VUE: Go to the Pearson VUE website, the official platform for CAPM® exam scheduling.

3. Create or Log In to Your Account: If you do not already have an account, create one. If you have an existing account, log in to proceed.

4. Enter Your Exam Code: Use the exam code provided in the PMI® email to access the scheduling system.

5. Choose Your Exam Date and Location: Select an available date and location that works best for you. For online exams, ensure your environment meets the necessary technical requirements.

6. Confirm and Save Your Booking: Review your exam details carefully before confirming. Save or print your confirmation for future reference.

Quick Reference Table for Booking Your Exam:

Step	Action
1	Receive exam code from PMI®.
2	Visit the Pearson VUE website.
3	Create or log in to your account.
4	Enter the exam code.
5	Choose your exam date and location.
6	Confirm and save the booking.

By following these steps, you can easily secure your exam date and focus on preparing for the CAPM® certification.

Preparing for the Exam

Preparing for the CAPM® exam requires a strategic approach, a solid understanding of project management principles, and the right resources. Here’s a structured guide to help you get started.

Understand the Exam Structure

The CAPM® exam is a three-hour test consisting of 150 multiple-choice questions. The content is based on the PMBOK® Guide (Project Management Body of Knowledge) and other key project management knowledge resources. Familiarizing yourself with the exam’s layout and question types is essential for sufficient preparation.

Create a Study Plan

Develop a clear and organized study plan that outlines specific goals and milestones. Allocate time to review each domain, practice test questions, and revisit areas where you need improvement.

Study Materials and Resources

Equip yourself with the following resources to strengthen your preparation:

• PMBOK® Guide: The primary resource for CAPM® exam content. Additional resources available that are not required but may be helpful according to PMI® Exam Content Outline (ECO) are:
  • Process Groups: A Practice Guide (2022)
  • PMI Guide to Business Analysis (2017)
  • Business Analysis for Practitioners: A Practice Guide – Second Edition (2024)
  • Agile Practice Guide (2017)
  • The Project Management Answer Book (Second Edition)
  • Effective Project Management: Traditional, Agile, Extreme, Hybrid (8th Edition)
• Online Courses and Training : Enroll in a CAPM® prep course for guided learning.
• Study Groups and Forums: Join online communities to connect with other candidates and exchange tips and strategies.

Practice Exams

Take practice exams to simulate the actual test environment. These exercises will help you manage time effectively, identify weak areas, and build confidence.

Exam Day Options

You can take the CAPM® exam at an authorized testing center or online with live proctoring. Both options are equally valid, so choose the one that aligns with your preferences and ensures a comfortable testing experience.

Exam Method	Pros	Cons
In-person Testing	Boosts chances of acing the test	Might need to travel a bit
Remote Proctoring	Comfort of testing in pajamas	Tech glitches might rain on your parade

Testing Windows

The CAPM® exam has flexible scheduling options, allowing you to choose a date and time that aligns with your preparation. Ensure you plan your studies around the availability of testing slots to avoid last-minute stress.

Setting Up for Success

On exam day:

• Select a quiet and distraction-free environment if you are taking the exam remotely.

• Prepare your ID and exam confirmation in advance to streamline the check-in process.

• Arrive early at the testing center or log in ahead of time for remote exams to ensure a smooth start.

By following these preparation steps, you’ll be well-equipped to approach the CAPM® exam with confidence and demonstrate knowledge and focus.

Wrapping Up

Successfully registering for the CAPM® exam is a significant milestone for new project managers and anyone aspiring to advance in project management. Following this guide ensures that all necessary steps are covered, from establishing eligibility to booking your exam date.

Earning the CAPM® certification is a noteworthy achievement that demonstrates your understanding of project management principles and enhances your resume, making you a competitive candidate for roles requiring your project management experience and expertise. According to PMI®, holding a CAPM® credential can broaden your career opportunities and increase your earning potential.

Here’s a concise summary of the key steps to prepare for the CAPM® exam:

• Verify Eligibility : Ensure you meet the requirements, including holding a secondary degree and completing 23 hours of project management training.

• Pay the Exam Fee: Understand the costs and complete the payment process promptly.

• Schedule Your Exam: Choose a date and time that aligns with your availability and minimizes stress.

• Prepare Thoroughly: Utilize study guides, take online classes, and practice with exam simulators to ensure comprehensive preparation.

Remember, maintaining your CAPM® credential requires earning 15 Professional Development Units (PDUs) every three years. Following this guide will set you on a path to certification and position you for long-term success in project management.