The process of earning your PMP certification is outlined in the following step-by-step guide which is recommended you read for PMP certification:

1. Ensure that you meet all of the requirements for the PMP certification.

You will first need to determine whether or not you meet the prerequisites for taking the PMP exam. You are going to require either:

• A minimum of 35 hours of training from a course in project management, in addition to at least 36 months of experience in project management, if you have a four-year degree; OR
• Completion of a project management training course lasting 35 hours in conjunction with a minimum of 60 months of relevant work experience, if the candidate possesses either an associate’s degree or a high school diploma.

You should make a habit of keeping a record of your past projects and training, noting pertinent details such as your particular role, responsibilities, and the length of time spent on projects or training, so that you have this information readily available when you apply for a job. If you already possess a CAPM certification, you are exempt from the requirement that you complete training. There is a three-year window during which the PMP certification can be used. In order to keep your certification current, you will need to participate in activities that contribute to your professional development for a total of sixty hours within that time frame. In that case, you may register to take the test more than once. More tips here for you.

2. Apply.

Create an account with the Project Management Institute (PMI), then start working on your PMP certification application. This will require you to divulge some of your most fundamental personal details, such as your educational background and the specifics of the projects you’ve worked on in the past. After you have been accepted, you will be required to pay the examination fee and afterwards schedule a test.

3. Prepare.

During this time, you prepare for the examination by studying, either in conjunction with your coursework and on your own. Several providers of exam preparation services recommend studying for sixty to one hundred and twenty hours. This could take a few months to complete depending on how often you choose to study.

4. Attempt to pass the PMP exam.

You have the option of taking the test either at a local testing centre or online. The total time needed to complete the test is just under four hours.

5. Maintain the certification.

There is a three-year window during which the PMP certification can be used. In order to keep your certification current, you will need to participate in activities that contribute to your professional development for a total of sixty hours within that time frame. In that case, you may register to take the test more than once.

Keeping your PMP certification current and active

The Project Management Professional certification is good for three years, but it can be renewed or maintained if the holder earns 60 professional development units within that time frame. A professional development unit is equal to one hour spent participating in a recognised professional development activity.