PMP certification: verify eligibility, preparation, and renewal

A source-checking guide for PMP candidates covering eligibility, application steps, exam preparation, fees, and renewal obligations.

Questions to ask

• Which current PMI route matches the candidate’s experience?
• Which fees and exam rules are current?
• What renewal and continuing-certification obligations apply?

Methodology

Use PMI’s current handbook and certification pages as the controlling record. Date every eligibility, fee, exam-version, and deadline statement.

Trade-offs

• A certification can structure learning but requires time, fees, and continuing obligations.
• Third-party preparation may add convenience without being PMI-approved.

Evidence and sources

• PMI's 2026 PMP exam page identifies a new exam launched in July 2026, points candidates to the 2026 Exam Content Outline, and states that applicants need 35 hours of project-management training. New PMP exam launched in July 2026