How Long Does It Take To Get a CMMC Certification?
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is critical for organizations working with the Department of Defense (DoD) and other government agencies. You may already know the importance of these credentials, but have you ever wondered how long it takes to get a CMMC certification? Keep reading to explore the certification timeframe and renewal process.
Understanding the CMMC Certification Process
The CMMC certification process involves stages to assess your organization’s cybersecurity controls. It starts with a self-assessment to identify areas for improvement. Once you have a better idea of your security, you can close potential gaps by adopting new cybersecurity practices.
Next, you’ll need to engage a CMMC Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO) for a formal assessment. Before you can re-engage with the third-party assessment organization, you’ll need to address identified issues. Once completed, C3PAO submits your assessment package to the CMMC Accreditation Body for final approval, granting the appropriate CMMC certification level.
The Timeframe for CMMC Certification
The timeframe for obtaining a CMMC certification may vary depending on your organization’s size, the complexity of the network, the maturity of existing cybersecurity processes, and the desired certification level. Note that the CMMC certification process can take a few months or more than a year.
Additional factors—the availability of C3PAO assessors, the volume of work required to close gaps, and the organization’s readiness and resources—may impact how long it takes to get certified. You can utilize CMMC certification consulting to familiarize yourself with the process and how it will work for your organization.
How Often Do You Need To Renew CMMC Certification?
CMMC certifications have a validity period of three years. Failing to maintain and improve your organization’s cybersecurity during this period may lead to a lower certification level upon re-assessment. As the renewal time approaches, you can prepare by carrying out an internal assessment to identify areas of improvement. After addressing identified issues, you can re-engage with a C3PAO for a re-assessment, much like the initial certification process.
Several factors affect how long it takes to get a CMMC certification, and it varies depending on your organization. Thoroughly understand the certification process, know what to expect, allocate necessary resources, and begin working toward certification with a comprehensive plan in place. To get started with the CMMC certification process, learn more about this process at Precision Execution.