Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Certification?

Certification is formal recognition by RIMS and the risk management discipline that an individual has proficiency and a comprehension of a specified body of knowledge pertaining to all areas of risk management.

What does it mean to be ANAB Accredited?

The RIMS-CRMP has earned international accreditation from the ANSI National Accreditation Board under ISO/IEC 17024:2012. This means that the RIMS-CRMP certification:

• Sets the standard for risk management competency worldwide.
• Conforms to international standards.
• Was evaluated and approved by an independent third party.
• Receives continuous quality reviews and improvements.

What is the difference between the CRM, ARM, RF and the RIMS-CRMP?

The RIMS-CRMP requires a broader level of knowledge than a designation. 
Professional certifications require:

• Demonstrated body of knowledge, generally by passing exam(s).
• A specific level of experience (practicum) for eligibility.
• Continuing education.
• Adherence to a code of conduct.

The CRM, ARM and RF are designations that do not require all of the above.

Can I start my application for the RIMS-CRMP or RIMS-CRMP-FED exam and return to it at a later date?

Yes, all incomplete and partial applications are saved in the RIMS-CRMP system for a period of one year before being marked for deletion. All information is auto-saved and can be returned to at a later date.

Are there training courses offered to help prepare for the RIMS-CRMP and RIMS-CRMP-FED exams?

Please click the following links to view exam prep workshops: RIMS-CRMP and RIMS-CRMP-FED.

Do I need to be a member of RIMS to take the exam?

No. All risk professionals are eligible to take the RIMS-CRMP or RIMS-CRMP-FED exam provided they meet specified educational and professional experience requirements.

Do I automatically become a RIMS member if I pass the exam?

RIMS-CRMP and RIMS-CRMP-FED holders are not considered standalone members of RIMS. If you are interested in becoming a RIMS member, please learn more and apply online.

Do internships count towards the required professional experience required?

Yes, internships in risk management count towards the necessary level of experience required.

Will I receive a confirmation that I've been approved to take my exam prior to the exam date?

You will receive an e-mail informing you that we received your application and you will be notified by email of your eligibility within 15 business days of applying.

What supporting documents are required?

Applicants can confirm their level of education and experience in the application for the RIMS-CRMP or RIMS-CRMP-FED exam. An individual can verify their education by uploading supporting documents in the form of an official university transcript or letter from the registrar indicating dates of employment to their application. We will not accept copies of diplomas or photographs of any documentation. Employment verification can be done by utilizing the electronic verification method found on the application or by filling out and uploading an employment verification affidavit, which can also be found on the application.

Where is the exam offered?

The RIMS-CRMP and RIMS-CRMP-FED exams are offered at PearsonVUE testing sites across the globe. A more detailed list of test sites can be found here​. You may also take the exam remotely from your home or office.

What is the format of the RIMS-CRMP exam?

• 120 multiple-choice questions
• Computer-Based Test
• 2.0 hours

What is the format of the RIMS-CRMP-FED exam?

• 170 multiple-choice questions
• Computer-Based Test
• 3.0 hours

How is my exam graded?

Exams are graded on a pass/fail basis.

When will I know my results?

Test takers will be notified of their performance on the exam upon completion of the test via printout. Candidates are not required to submit this information to the Certification Commission, as a more detailed report will be sent before a certification is granted. 

Can I see the questions and answers on the RIMS-CRMP or RIMS-CRMP-FED exam after I test?

No, the exam content and any test-related materials are confidential and not available for review. Test takers who did not pass the exam will be provided with an overview of their performance on each of the domains.

I passed the exam, now what?

The RIMS-CRMP and RIMS-CRMP-FED credentials are awarded for a period of two years. To qualify for recertification, one must achieve the continuing education requirements described here. RIMS-CRMP and RIMS-CRMP-FED holders must also agree to uphold the Code of Ethics.

If I failed the exam, will I be able to retest?

Candidates who were unsuccessful in testing will be able to retake the test, provided they pay a retest fee for each subsequent occurrence. Those who are opting to retest may do so one additional time in the test window that they initially tested. All subsequent retests must be done in future test windows.

What is the recertification period for the RIMS-CRMP and RIMS-CRMP-FED?

Eligible applicants who have passed the RIMS-CRMP or RIMS-CRMP-FED exam are considered to have active credentials on the date they receive an official welcome letter and certificate. The recertification period will begin on certification date and end two years on the first day of the month following the date of certification. Any subsequent recertification periods will run from the final day of the recertification month through the first day of the subsequent month after a period of two years.

For example:

• Certification Date: November 12, 2022
• 1st Recertification Cycle begins: November 12, 2022
• 1st Recertification Cycle ends: November 30, 2024
• 2nd Recertification Cycle: December 1, 2024 – November 30, 2026 

I am an officer in my local RIMS chapter, does that qualify me for recertification points?

Certificants who participate in a leadership role at the chapter level of a risk management organization are eligible to receive up to five recertification points per two year cycle.

Is attendance at RISKWORLD required to maintain my certification?

No, certified individuals are not required to attend any RIMS event, though doing so will enable holders to earn points towards recertification.

Will I be able to see who else has achieved their RIMS-CRMP or RIMS-CRMP-FED credential?

A list of all certified individuals, along with the status of their certification and location will be available on the RIMS-CRMP website. By applying to sit for the exam, applicants consent to having their name and location shared publicly, should they pass the exam. Individuals who have failed the exam will not be made public.​​​