Application Process

Notice:  Effective July 1, 2012

We are modifying the process to become certified by requiring that an application for certification be completed prior to taking the certification exam. There are no changes in the number of steps or cost for becoming certified. Each candidate must complete an application for certification by following the steps below prior to scheduling the exam. Once the application has been approved, you will receive an email confirming approval; it also will provide you with an eligibility ID. Once you receive this eligibility ID, you can then schedule your exam. You will not be able to schedule an exam without your eligibility ID. Allow 5-10 business days for your application to be processed.

1.   Determine Your Eligibility

To qualify for this distinction, candidates must meet criteria in education, experience and knowledge. To see if you meet these criteria click here.

2.  Complete and Submit an Application

Click here to fill out a certification application or click the button below to enter the Certification Center. Application fees are based on your PDMA membership type.

Application Fee:

Full PDMA Members - $0 (click here for membership information)
PDMA Student and Team Members - $100
Non-members - $200

3.  Receive Your Approval to Test

When your application has been reviewed and approved (allow 5-10 business days) you will receive an email including an eligibility ID and instructions on how you may go about scheduling your exam. You will not be able to schedule an exam without your eligibility ID.

4.  Schedule and Pass the Exam

PDMA has a certified group of registered trainers to assist you in preparing for the exam. To learn more about the exam structure, view a self-study guide plus the list of trainers and upcoming training sessions.

The exam is administered by Prometric at their sites around the world and is $250 for members and non-members.

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Provisional Status

Individuals who have submitted an application but do not have the required level of experience at that time to become fully certified are able to sit for the NPDP exam. "NPDP Provisional Status" is granted to those who have submitted an application and passed the NPDP exam. Individuals who are granted "NPDP Provisional Status," have up to five years to accrue the necessary experience for Regular Certification. In order for an individual to change their status from "NPDP Provisional" to "NPDP Certified," they must accrue the necessary experience and update the application they previously submitted for approval.

If you have any questions regarding the certification process, email certification@pdma.org.