Eligibility & certification path
Know what you need before you apply—and what comes next.
Check the three requirements
You do not need project management work experience to apply for the CAPM. PMI lists these eligibility requirements:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Have a secondary degree, such as a high school diploma, GED, or global equivalent.
- Complete at least 23 hours of project management education before the exam.
What counts as project management education?
Your education should cover project management learning objectives. Options described in the exam outline include training providers, employer programs, university courses, and distance-learning courses with an end-of-course assessment.
Keep the course name, provider, dates, hours, and completion certificate. Check the current PMI requirements before buying a course; reading community posts alone is not a substitute for qualifying education.
Your path to certification
- Check your eligibility and organize your education records.
- Create your PMI account and complete the application.
- After acceptance, pay the exam fee and choose an available exam appointment.
- Study all four exam domains and take the exam.
- After earning CAPM, meet the ongoing renewal requirements.
Do you need PMI membership?
Membership is not listed as an eligibility requirement. Compare the exam fee and membership benefits in your PMI account before paying. Do not assume a membership discount will outweigh the membership cost.
Go to the source. Requirements can change. Check PMI’s current guidance before applying, paying, scheduling, or renewing.