Earning the Certified Change Management Professional (CCMP)® certification is a significant step in advancing your career in change management. The application process, however, can feel overwhelming. Where do you start? What do you need? How can you set yourself up for success?
If you are an ACMP SoCal member or are considering joining, you do not have to go through this process alone. Our community events and Change Exchange discussions provide the support you need to understand, prepare, and apply confidently.
If you have questions while reading, drop them in the comments below. Or, bring them to our next Change Exchange session, where you can connect with experienced professionals and other CCMP candidates.
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility
Before applying, confirm that you meet the CCMP eligibility criteria:
Education & Experience:
Option 1: A four-year degree (bachelor’s or equivalent) and three years (4,200 hours) of change management experience in the last ten years.
Option 2: No degree is required, but you must have five years (7,000 hours) of change management experience in the last ten years.
Training Requirement:
Complete 21 hours of instructor-led training aligned with ACMP’s Standard for Change Management.
Need training? Check out ACMP’s Qualified Education Providers (QEP).
Work Experience Documentation:
Submit three detailed examples of projects where you applied change management principles, aligning with ACMP’s Standard for Change Management.
If you are unsure how to document your experience, ask in the comments or bring your questions to Change Exchange, where CCMP-certified professionals and fellow applicants can provide insights.
Step 2: Engage with ACMP SoCal Resources
Being part of ACMP SoCal gives you access to an entire community of professionals who can help make this process easier. Here’s how:
Join Change Exchange Sessions – These informal peer discussions allow you to ask questions, share experiences, and get real-time feedback on CCMP preparation, work experience documentation, and study strategies. Check the ACMP SoCal events page for upcoming sessions.
Connect with CCMP-Certified Members – Whether you need study advice or insight into how the exam applies to real-world change work, our chapter has members who have gone through this process and can provide guidance.
Access Member Discounts – ACMP SoCal members receive exclusive discounts on CCMP training programs, such as $100 off jTask’s CCMP training (Use ACMPSOCAL at checkout). Learn more about this offer here.
If you have already started the CCMP process, share how ACMP SoCal has helped in the comments below.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Once you meet the eligibility requirements, you can begin your application:
Prepare Your Documents – Gather proof of education, work experience, and training completion.
Complete the Online Application – Visit the CCMP application portal to fill out your details. Your work experience examples should be as specific as possible.
Review and Submit – Double-check for completeness before submitting.
Application Fees:
ACMP Members: $595
Non-Members: $745
Re-Examination Fee: $250
Joining ACMP before applying reduces your CCMP fees and provides access to study groups, Change Exchange, and networking opportunities that can make a big difference in your preparation.
Step 4: Prepare for the Exam
While waiting for application approval, begin studying for the exam.
Study the Standard for Change Management – This is the foundation of the CCMP exam. Download it here.
Take Practice Exams – Many successful candidates recommend practice tests to get comfortable with the exam format.
Join or Start a Study Group – ACMP SoCal is exploring official CCMP study groups for 2025, but for now, bring your study questions to Change Exchange for support.
Step 5: Schedule and Take the Exam
Schedule your test date once your application is approved.
Take the 150-question, 3-hour exam online or at a Pearson VUE test center.
Pass and receive your official CCMP designation.
Success Stories and Tips from CCMP Certificants
Hearing from those who have passed the exam can provide motivation and insight.
If you are preparing for the CCMP, what has been your biggest challenge so far? Share your thoughts in the comments.
Final Thoughts: Why ACMP SoCal is Your Best Ally for CCMP Success
Getting CCMP-certified is a significant milestone, but do not go through it alone.
Change Exchange Sessions – Ask questions, learn from others, and get the support you need.
Networking and Mentorship – Connect with CCMP-certified professionals for guidance.
Exclusive Discounts on Training – Save money on QEP-approved CCMP training.
Future Study Groups (Coming 2025) – We are developing structured CCMP study groups to give you even more support.
First, visit the official ACMP CCMP page today to start your application.
Do you have questions about CCMP? Drop them in the comments, and do not forget to join the next Change Exchange session to get answers from peers and certified professionals.
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