2025 PMP Certification Requirements & Costs

The PMP (Project Management Professional) certification could be your golden ticket of getting somewhere on the career ladder. As a project manager aspiring to achieve greater things, this PMP certification is huge – it boosts salaries by 25% on average. 

But before you commit yourself to this program, it’s beneficial to look at the key PMP certificate requirements and the fees involved. No need of feeling distress; we have got you covered! Here’s everything you need to know about getting your PMP certification in 2025.

What Exactly is this PMP Certification? 

PMP certification makes you a certified member of PMI (Project Management Institute), in other words, you are certified internationally to be a world class project manager. 

This means you would be competent across virtually all industries and would know how to bring a project to a successful close, and manage resources optimally. From construction management to technology, a PMP certification makes one marketable to organizations.

Applying for the PMP Certification is not as easy as just signing up for an online course. PMP certificate requirements need to be met, which we will cover below.

PMP Certification Eligibility Criteria 

To qualify for the PMP certification, you will need a combination of education, experience, and training. Think of it as your pre-flight checklist! PMI offers three sets of options to meet the PMP certificate requirements. 

Set A Requirements 

• Education: High school diploma or equivalent.
• Experience: 60 months (5 years) leading and managing projects in the last eight years.
• Training: 35 hours of project management education or a CAPM® certification. 

Set B Requirements 

• Education: Bachelor’s degree or higher (or global equivalent).
• Experience: 36 months (3 years) leading and managing projects in the last eight years.
• Training: 35 hours of project management education or a CAPM® certification. 

Set C Requirements 

• Education: Bachelor’s degree (or higher) from a GAC-accredited program.
• Experience: 24 months (2 years) leading and managing projects in the last eight years.
• Training: GAC project management coursework (pre-approved by PMI). 

If you already hold a CAPM certification? You can skip the training hours—menas it's an exemption to take 35 hours of mandated Project management training! 

What Counts as Project Management Experience? 

Before applying, make sure your project management experience ticks all the PMI boxes. It should involve directing and leading projects, and every task must align with PMI-defined project phases—initiation, planning, execution, monitoring, and closing. Don’t forget! Your experience must come from within the last eight years. 

Check out How to Get Project Management Experience?

If you meet the experience and educational criteria mentioned above, it’s time for Step 2—understanding the costs.

PMP Certification Costs – Breaking it Down 

Preparing for your PMP exam involves a range of expenses. Becoming PMP certified is an investment in your future. But like any investment, it’s important to budget for it! Here’s a breakdown of the expenses involved.  

1. PMP Certification Exam Fees 

You can’t avoid exam fees, but becoming a PMI member first can save you money (yes, discounts!). Here's how it works:

• For PMI Members: $405
• For Non-Members: $555 

Bonus tip: PMI membership costs $129/year plus a one-time $10 application fee. Not only does it lower your exam fee; you’ll also gain access to free tools like the PMBOK® Guide! 

2. Study Materials & Mock Tests 

If you want to ace the exam on your first try (and who doesn’t?), quality study materials are key.

• Study Materials: $100–$200
• Mock Tests: $60–$300 

Investing in these resources can make you feel confident and well-prepared! 

3. PMP Certification Renewal Fee 

The PMP certification doesn’t last forever—you'll need to renew it every three years by earning 60 Professional Development Units (PDUs). Renewal costs are:

• For PMI Members: $60
• For Non-Members: $150 

That’s less than $1.67/month to maintain your status—totally worth it, right? 

4. Re-Examination Fee 

Didn’t pass on the first go? No big deal—it happens to the best of us. Here’s how much a re-examination will cost:

• For PMI Members: $275
• For Non-Members: $375 

Use the experience to learn and come back stronger. Practice makes perfect! 

5. Certification Training Course 

Many providers offer courses to help you meet the 35-hour education requirement while preparing you for the PMP exam. Training costs vary based on location and provider. 

Here’s a handy comparison of training costs with Simpliaxis across various countries:

Choose a training program that suits your budget and schedule! 

6. Additional Costs to Consider 

There are a few more optional but recommended costs to factor into your budget:

• PMBOK® Guide + Resources: $100–$200
• Mock Tests (if not included with training): $60–$300
• Some providers may charge extra administrative fees (Simpliaxis doesn’t!). 

Planning your budget carefully ensures there are no surprises. 

While the upfront costs may seem significant, remember that the earning potential for PMP-certified professionals more than makes up for it. 

Get more information here about PMP Certification Cost - All you need to know

Why PMP Certification is Worth Every Penny 💰 

The PMP certification offers an exceptional return on investment. Research indicates that PMP-certified professionals earn 25% more than non-certified peers. Additionally, this certification provides access to global opportunities in prominent industries, demonstrating your ability to lead critical projects. 

Furthermore, the knowledge gained from PMP preparation is invaluable, shaping your thinking, planning, and management skills for years to come.

Read more here Is PMP® Certification Worth it?

Starting on Your PMP Certification Journey 

Excited yet? Achieving your PMP certification is an impressive milestone that validates your skill and dedication. From meeting eligibility PMP certificate requirements to covering exam costs, planning ahead will make your PMP journey much smoother. 

Want to start your PMP prep today? Check out Simpliaxis for an affordable and comprehensive PMP Certification training course. Don’t wait—your dream career leap starts here!