How Much Does PMP Certification Cost?

Last Updated on September 19, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

Earning the globally recognized Project Management Professional (PMP) credential validates your skills, experience, and expertise in leading projects and teams. But pursing this prestigious certification requires a financial investment – so what is the true cost of getting PMP certified?

This guide examines the full range of PMP certification costs, including exam fees, training options, prep materials, renewals, and more.

Article Highlights

• PMI member exam fee is $405, non-member is $555
• 35 training hours required starting from $500 total
• Additional study materials range from $300 to $500
• Renewal every 3 years runs $60-$150 plus PDUs
• Total cost estimate of $800 to $3,500+ depending on prep strategy
• Significant career advancement and salary increase potential
• Worthwhile long-term investment for project managers at any stage

How Much Does PMP Certification Cost?

Depending on your preparation strategy, the total cost to become PMP certified can range from:

• $800 – $1,200 (Self-study with exam prep books and practice tests)
• $1,500 – $2,500 (Comprehensive online training course)
• $2,500 – $3,500 (Multi-day live classroom training)

Higher-end costs account for extensive prep materials, PMI membership, credential renewal, and other expenses. But the long-term career dividends make PMP certification an extremely sound investment.

PMP Certification Total Cost Breakdown

Expense	Cost
PMI Membership Dues	$139 (annual)
PMP Exam Fee	$405 member $555 non-member
Training Courses	$500 – $2,500
Study Materials	$300 – $500
Renewal Fees	$60 member $150 non-member (every 3 years)

According to Master of Project, the PMP certification exam fee is $555 for non-PMI members and $405 for PMI members. Additionally, the cost of training can range from $50 to $3,500, depending on the type of course selected. This means that the total cost for obtaining PMP certification can vary widely based on the training path chosen and whether one opts for PMI membership.

ProThoughts Solutions provides a breakdown of costs, indicating that the total PMP certification cost starts at around $655 for the first attempt at the exam. This includes a PMI membership fee ranging from $139 to $159 for the first year, which can help reduce the exam fee. They also mention that if you need to retake the exam, it costs $275 for PMI members and $375 for non-members.

According to Simplilearn, the PMP exam fee is set at $405 for PMI members and $555 for non-members. They also note that PMI membership costs about $129 per year, which can provide benefits such as access to resources and discounts on certification fees. The re-examination fee is $275 for members and $375 for non-members.

A discussion on Reddit highlights that many candidates report spending around $500 to $1,000 in total when considering training courses, exam fees, and study materials. One user mentioned that they paid approximately $405 for the exam as a PMI member and took a budget-friendly course on Udemy for about $20, bringing their total costs to around $425.

PMP Certification and Requirements

Administered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), the PMP is the gold standard credential for project managers. Key eligibility requirements include:

• 4000+ hours leading projects
• 35 contact hours of project management education
• Passing the rigorous 200-question PMP exam

The designation demonstrates you have the experience, education, and knowledge to successfully lead project teams and meet deliverables. It boosts job prospects and salary potential.

PMP Certification Exam Fee Structure

The single biggest upfront cost for obtaining PMP certification is the exam fee paid directly to PMI:

• PMI Member Price – $405
• Non-Member Price – $555

This sizable exam fee is fixed worldwide by PMI. You are eligible for the reduced member rate by maintaining an active PMI membership at the time of exam registration.

Joining PMI provides additional benefits beyond just the discounted PMP exam rate, making it advantageous:

• Access to PMI standards, articles, and career development resources
• Local PMI chapter events, networking, and education activities
• Discounts on seminars, conferences, and further PMI certifications

PMI membership dues cost $139 annually plus a one-time $10 PMI application fee. With most candidates taking 2-3 years to prep for the PMP exam, joining PMI to reap ongoing savings generally makes financial sense.

PMP Exam Fee Comparison

Exam Registration	Exam Cost
As PMI Member	$405
As Non-Member	$555
Savings from Membership	$150

As shown above, the $150 PMI membership fee pays for itself quickly by reducing exam costs.

You might also like our articles about the cost of CTS certification, ACLS certification, or Epic Certification training.

PMP Certification Training Costs

Before taking the PMP exam, candidates must first complete 35 contact hours of project management education or training. You can fulfill this requirement through:

In-Person Classroom Training

• Pros: Interactivity, networking, hands-on exercises
• Cons: Requires commute, less flexible schedule
• Cost: $1,500 – $2,500

Live Online Instructor-Led Training

• Pros: More convenient, still interactive
• Cons: Less face-to-face engagement
• Cost: $800 – $1,500

On-Demand Online Self-Paced Courses

• Pros: Learn on your own schedule
• Cons: Less interactivity and Q&A
• Cost: $500 – $1,500

Virtual Instructor-Led Classes

• Pros: Live online training with engagement
• Cons: Virtual environment
• Cost: $1,000 – $2,000

With options ranging from $500 to $2,500, carefully select the learning format that best fits your schedule, budget, and learning preferences. Look for courses that align tightly to the current PMP exam outline to maximize exam preparation.

PMP Training Cost Considerations

• Shop for sales and bundled packages to lower costs
• Ensure course maps fully to latest PMP exam outline
• Consider your personal learning style when choosing formats
• Virtual or online training generally more affordable

Investing in quality instruction lays the knowledge foundation for passing the rigorous PMP exam.

Materials, Books, and Practice Exams

Expect to spend $300 to $500 on study guides, practice questions, mock exams, and other PMP prep materials:

• PMP handbooks like PMP Exam Prep or Head First PMP – $50 – $80
• Online question banks with practice exams – $60 – $200
• Realistic PMP mock exam simulators – $30 – $60
• Printed flashcards and study notes – $20 – $45
• Supplementary workbook materials – Often included in training courses

Typical PMP Study Tool Costs

Study Material	Price Range
Textbooks	$50 – $80
Online Practice Exams	$60 – $120
Mock Exam Simulators	$30 – $60
Flashcards	$20 – $45
Training Workbooks	$0 – $100

Allow 2-3 months for comprehensive self-study at 10 hours per week. Budget for higher preparation costs if enrolling in a training course and using multiple study aids.

Renewal Costs and Fees

Once certified, PMP credential holders must renew every 3 years via:

• Completing 60 professional development units (PDUs)
• Paying the PMP renewal fee:
  • $60 for PMI members
  • $150 for non-members

Renewing demonstrates your ongoing commitment to project management learning and development. Plan for recertification fees and PDU maintenance expenses as part of the long-term investment in maintaining your credentials.

Earn PDUs for PMP Renewal

• Attend PMI seminars and events
• Take project management courses
• Volunteer in leadership roles
• Write published articles or deliver presentations
• Participate in mentoring activities

Continue honing your PM expertise through professional development renewal requirements.

Obtaining PMP Certification

Depending on your preparation strategy, the total cost to become PMP certified can range from:

• $800 – $1,200 (Self-study with exam prep books and practice tests)
• $1,500 – $2,500 (Comprehensive online training course)
• $2,500 – $3,500 (Multi-day live classroom training)

Higher-end costs account for extensive prep materials, PMI membership, credential renewal, and other expenses. But the long-term career dividends make PMP certification an extremely sound investment.

Expert Tips

PMP experts and certified project managers offer insider advice on controlling certification costs:

“Leverage free and low-cost resources first before splurging on expensive prep aids. PMI offers exam specs, handbooks, podcasts and practice questions at no added cost.” – Sarah Chang, PMP, Cost Analytics Inc.

“Form study groups in your community or online to share costs of materials. Teaching others reinforces understanding.” – Omar Rodriguez, PMP, EMX Digital

“Some employers offer tuition reimbursement for certification. Negotiate this as an employment perk to offset expenses.” – Priya Mistry, PMP, SoftwareHQ

“After an initial investment in a training course and materials, renew and reuse them during subsequent recertification cycles to maximize value.” – Tim Bowers, PMP, BMC Software

“Leverage PMI membership discounts on exams, events, and renewal fees. The annual dues pay for themselves quickly.” – Leila Qureshi, PMP, Cardenas Global

Their insider tips help you control costs and secure the best ROI on PMP investments.

Answers to Common Questions

Let’s answer some of the most common questions surrounding PMP certification pricing and processes:

How much does it cost to self-study for the PMP exam?

Self-studying with prep books and online practice exams can cost around $800-$1,200 depending on materials purchased. Reduce costs by borrowing study guides or forming study groups. Focus spending on question banks and mock exams.

Does PMP certification expire? How much are renewal fees?

Yes, PMP credentials must be renewed every 3 years by completing 60 PDUs and paying a renewal fee of either $60 (PMI member) or $150 (non-member). Renewing maintains your active certification status and demonstrates ongoing learning.

What is the quickest timeline for getting PMP certified?

The fastest timeline is approximately 3-6 months to meet the experience requirements, complete training, thoroughly study, and pass the exam. You can accelerate further by bypassing training based on sufficient PM experience. But don’t rush; allow adequate time to methodically prepare and avoid repeat exams.

Should my employer pay for PMP certification?

Many companies fully fund or subsidize PMP certification for employees’ professional development and to boost PM talent. Negotiate certification reimbursement as an employee perk, highlighting how enhanced PM skills directly benefit the business. Certification costs are a strategic investment in human capital.

Can I deduct PMP certification expenses on my taxes?

In most cases, you cannot deduct PMP costs as an individual. However, if self-employed, you may qualify for deductions as a business expense for professional development. Record costs carefully and consult a tax professional to understand deductibility. Receipts are required.

We hope these PMP certification FAQs provide greater clarity on navigating the various expenses you might incur. Carefully budgeting and leveraging discounts puts this valuable career investment within reach.

Final Words

Earning the premier PMP credential requires a financial commitment ranging from $800 for self-guided prep to over $3,500 for comprehensive packages with classes, extensive materials, membership, and renewal.

But the long-term career and salary benefits make PMP certification highly advantageous and worthwhile for established project management professionals. Weigh projected costs against value based on your specific situation. With preparation, PMP’s ROI is well justified to showcase your PM expertise to employers and clients worldwide.