What Are the Steps to Apply for PMP Certification?[Updated 2025]

As a project manager, have you ever felt that your skills and experience aren't fully recognized? Or are you struggling to stand out in a competitive job market? 

One way to solve this problem is to earn a PMP certification. Once you have the PMP, it tells employers you're good at your job and can manage projects well. 

The PMP certification shows that you have the skills to lead projects effectively, whether using predictive, hybrid, or agile methods. 

According to the study by PMI, 33% of PMP-certified professionals report higher median salaries than those without.

A report from the Project Management Institute says that by 2027, there will be a need for 87.7 million people in project management roles. 

Yet, there’s a shortage of qualified professionals. Getting your PMP certification is one of the best ways to boost your chances of landing a job. 

It helps you stand out from others and makes hiring quickly easier. 

So, are you ready to fill one of those 87.7 million job roles and advance your career? Then, follow the stepwise approach to apply for PMP certification. 

What Is PMP Certification?

PMP, or Project Management Professional, is a credential provided by the Project Management Institute (PMI). It is widely recognized around the world as a top standard in project management.

PMI, a leading industry authority, offers training, tools, and networking opportunities to more than 600,000 members globally.

What Is The Cost of PMP Certification?

The main things you need to pay for when getting a PMP certification are the exam fee, training, study materials, and practice tests. The Project Management Institute (PMI) sets the price for the exam, which is the same everywhere. But the other costs can change depending on where you are.

In India, the exam fee is INR 42,863, and the training can cost between INR 8,000 and INR 18,000. These are the most significant expenses when you're trying to become PMP-certified.

Steps to Successfully Obtain Your PMP Certification

Here’s a simple guide to help you understand the steps to get your PMP certification:

1. Meet the Eligibility Criteria for PMP Certification

Before taking the PMP exam, you must ensure you meet the eligibility requirements. Here's what you need:

• If you have a four-year degree: 35 hours of project management training, and at least 36 months of project management experience.

• If you have an associate degree or a secondary school diploma (such as a high school certificate): 35 hours of project management training, and 60 months of experience.

Make sure to track your projects and training details, including your role, responsibilities, and the duration, as you'll need this information when applying. 

The training requirement can be waived if you already hold a CAPM certification.

Once you earn your PMP certification, it will be valid for three years. 

You must complete 60 hours of professional development to maintain it during that time. 

Otherwise, you must retake the exam to keep your certification active.

2. Create a PMI Account 

Go to the PMI website and create an account if you haven’t done so already. 

• You can also sign in with Google, Facebook, Linkedin, etc. 

• After that, it will ask if you have a PMI account or not. Click No. 

• Then, create your account by filling in basic information like name, region, and email.

•  Click on Complete Registration. 

• You will receive an OTP on your email address. Fill that OTP

3. Begin Your PMP Application Process

After completing your registration, start your PMP exam application by submitting your academic and professional details. 

Provide information about your highest level of education, such as the school, degree earned, and graduation date. 

4. Keep A Record Of Your Project Management Experience

You’ll also need to outline your project management experience, including the projects you've led or directed. 

Make sure to include the project dates, your roles, the organizations involved, and the hours dedicated to project management tasks. 

Additionally, be ready to explain your responsibilities and key achievements for each project.

5. Document Your Project Management Education

Provide details about your 35 hours of project management training or CAPM® certification. 

Be sure to include course titles, the institutions where you completed them, dates of completion, and the hours earned.

6. Submit Your Application After Reviewing 

Take time to thoroughly check your application for accuracy and completeness. Ensure all information provided is truthful and can be verified.

Once you're satisfied, submit your application. PMI will review it, which may take up to 5 business days. They may reach out if further details or an audit is needed.

7. Pay the Exam Fee

After your application is approved, you'll get an invitation to pay the exam fee, which varies based on your PMI membership status. PMI members enjoy a discounted fee, so consider joining PMI before paying to save on costs.

8. Schedule Your Exam Date 

Once you've made the payment, you'll receive an eligibility number that allows you to schedule your exam. 

You can take the PMP exam at a Pearson VUE testing center or opt for a proctored online exam. Select a date and location that best fits your schedule.

9. Give The Exam

If you’ve chosen the offline exam mode, be sure to arrive at the exam center at least one hour before your scheduled time. 

For an online proctored exam, make sure you meet all the technical and environmental requirements.

Carefully follow the exam instructions and manage your time effectively throughout the test.

10. Check The Results

You will receive your exam results immediately after submission. If you pass the PMP certification exam, you'll receive a congratulatory message—you're now a PMP-certified project manager! 

If you don't pass, don't worry; you have two more attempts available. Use the time to prepare thoroughly and try again.

Conclusion 

In conclusion, earning your PMP certification is a valuable step in boosting your career as a project manager. 

It not only validates your skills and experience but also sets you apart in a highly competitive job market. 

With the demand for qualified project managers steadily rising, this certification enhances your credibility, marketability, and salary potential.

Following the outlined steps, you can successfully navigate the application process, pass the exam, and become one of the many PMP-certified professionals leading the industry. 

So, take the first step today and unlock new opportunities for your future.