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How to Obtain PMP Certification

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PMP is short for Project Management Professional. It is a title earned by managers who fulfill a list of requirements set by PMI, the Project Management Institute, a non-profit organization that promotes management skills. To become a certified PMP, you must demonstrate that you have lead successful projects, and pass a special exam.

Preliminary Requirements

First, to learn the minimum education and work experience requirements, and the two main routs to becoming a PMP. The first route is for those who only have a high school diploma, GED, or Associates degree. These managers need at least 5 years eperience as a project leader, and 35 hours worth of coursework in project management. The second route is for those who hold a bachelors degree or higher. These managers must have at least 3 years experience and 35 hours of project management education.

Obtaining Project Management Experience

All candidates for PMP certification need 3 or more years worth of experience as a leader on a complex project. So what types of projects count and how do you document this? You can count any project in which you directed the Initiation, Planning, Execution, Monitoring & Controlling, or Closing stages.

It isn't necessary that you directed all five stages of a single project, but you must have experience in all five areas. Also, you cannot count overlapping projects twice. For example, if you directed two projects simultaneously for a four month period, you can only count that as 4 months, not eight. To document your experiences, simply fill out the verification section of the PMP application. You will need dates and references.

Obtaining Project Management Education

The 35 hours of education must be in courses or individual classes that teach you how to lead projects. If you take a 20 hour management course, and only half of it is devoted to directing projects, then you can only count 10 hours toward the 35 hour minimum. You can take the classes at a university, community college, corporate training academy, or at an institute affiliated with PMI. However, you cannot count activities such as reading, private tutoring, or seminar attendance. Before you enroll in a course, check with PMI to make sure the school is approved, or check the school's accreditation.

Registering for the PMP Exam

Once you have documented your work experience and education on the PMP application, mail the application and wait for approval to take the exam. PMI will only let you take the exam if your application is accepted, so you cannot attempt a 'practice' test before you are ready to become a certified PMP. Once you get the all-clear, sign up for an exam date and pay the fee. The PMP exam is given in computer format, and the fee is $555 for non-members, and $405 for members of PMI. You can read more detailed PMP exam information on Get-Test-Prep. Purchase a PMP exam guide and read tips on how to ace the PMP exam on your first try.

Studying for and Taking the PMP Exam

The PMP certification test is 4 hours long and contains 200 questions. The questions are multiple choice and cover the five stages of project management (initiation, planning, execution, monitoring & controlling, closing), as well as professional standards and ethics. PMI publishes study materials to help you prepare for the exam, and if you want a passing score, you should take advantage of the many study guides available.

Maintaining Your PMP Certification

When you pass the exam, you will earn the PMP credential. You can add to your resume and business cards, and use it to negatiate better job offers. However, as with most types of professional certifications and licenses, there is an expiration date and renewal process. You can renew your PMP certification as long as you take the required number of continuing education credits, attend seminars, etc. Currently, PMP credentials are valid for 3 years.