Board-Certified Case Manager - FAQs

Certification

CCM Board-Certified Case Manager

Join the over 50,000 professionals who have chosen case management certification through the nation’s largest credentialing organization.

Exam Application Dates:
March 1 - May 31, 2026
Renewal Application Dates:
March 1 - May 31, 2026


What is Case Management?

Case Management is a dynamic process that assesses, plans, implements, coordinates, monitors, and evaluates to improve outcomes, experiences, and value.

The practice of case management is professional and collaborative, occurring in a variety of settings where medical care, mental health care, and social supports are delivered. Services are facilitated by diverse disciplines in conjunction with the care recipient and their support system.

In pursuit of health equity, priorities include identifying needs, ensuring appropriate access to resources/services, addressing social determinants of health and facilitating safe care transitions. Professional case managers help navigate complex systems to achieve mutual goals, advocate for those they serve, and recognize personal dignity, autonomy, and the right to self-determination.  (ACMA/CCMC September 2022)

Case managers help all healthcare stakeholders.

The benefits of case management accrue to all participants in the process. Consumers gain an advocate and emotional support. Physicians and hospitals have complex cases facilitated. And payers' costs are reduced while their customers are retained.

Four important factors will continue to impact the practice of case management.

  • Explosion of managed care.
  • Burgeoning elder population.
  • Increasing number of chronically ill patients maintaining an improved quality of life through newly developed drugs and requiring complex, ongoing treatment.
  • Spread of state legislation requiring certification and licensing.

Case management practice will continue to grow. Become a certified leader.

Advances in healthcare technology combined with diminishing resources increases the demand for certified case managers who can manage complex cases in the best interests of consumers while saving time and money.

How much is the application?

There is a $235 non-refundable application fee and $195 exam fee. The total paid at the time of applying is $430.

How can I get a copy of my receipt?

Please log in to your account from the orange rectangle in the upper right-hand corner. Once signed into your account, there will be a menu where you can select "Print Receipts".

Are there discounts or special offers?

Yes, if you meet any of the eligibility requirements listed here. Additionally, The Commission occasionally offers limited-time promotional discounts sent via email. Check your email to see if there are any promotions currently available.

How do I become certified?

You must meet all eligibility requirements, submit a complete application, including employer and primary license information, with complete fees. Once your application is approved, you may then schedule your exam at a local computer-based testing site or remotely at home. After you take the exam, you will be notified of your test results by The Commission™.

When can I apply for the exam?

View the application timeline.

What should I do if I can't remember my username/password?

Go to "Log In" and select “Forgot Password”. Your password will be sent to the email address listed in your account. Please check your junk/spam folder as well.

How do I know if I am eligible to apply?

Refer to the Certification Guide to determine if you are eligible. 

Do LPN/LVN licenses meet the education eligibility requirements?

A LPN or LVN can apply if they have earned a baccalaureate or graduate degree in health or human services as outlined in the Certification Guide. 

I am a social worker. Am I eligible?

Any health or human services professional with a four-year degree as outlined in the Certification Guide and who meets the employment experience requirements is eligible to sit for the CCM exam. 

What can I do if my application was denied?

You can appeal the decision by making a request through your application within 30 days. You will be required to submit additional information. If the denial is upheld, you will receive a refund of the examination fee only.

How do I receive my certificate?

More information can be found here.

What should I do if I feel that someone is making unethical decisions or providing The Commission with false information in their application? 

The integrity of the CCM credential and ethical practice are of the utmost importance to The Commission. The eligibility requirements have been designed to ensure that those who earn the credential possess the education, skills, and experience needed to deliver appropriate services to all they serve. The full list of qualifications can be found in the Certification Guide.

On the CCM exam application, applicants must attest to the following: “... I agree to abide by the Rules of Conduct, as found within the Code of Professional Conduct for Case Managers (Code), which I have read and understand. I also understand that any false, inaccurate, or misleading statements included here will constitute grounds for the suspension or revocation of the CCM designation awarded on the basis of the information contained herein.”

If someone becomes aware of a possible violation of the Code of Professional Conduct, they should review The Commission’s Procedures for Processing Complaints and Self-reports and file a complaint, if appropriate. 

How do I schedule my CCM exam?

After applying for the exam, being approved, and receiving your exam scheduling instructions, you can log into your account with The Commission™ and choose "Manage Exam" to schedule your appointment.

Taking the Exam 

I'm trying to decide if I should take my exam at a testing center or at home. Do you offer any resources that could help me decide? 

This tool may help you decide if online testing is right for you.
 

What should I do if I have a special testing accommodation request?

If you require any special accommodations (extra time, separate room, medication, religious/mobility accommodations, etc.) to take your exam, and you do not see the accommodation listed on the approved comfort list, please indicate that you will require accommodations when you complete your initial application. You will have the option to indicate what is needed and also upload a physician's note or any other information. The deadline to request a special accommodation is the end of the application window. Please note that no-show appointments with special accommodations will incur a $200 fee. 

How many questions are on the exam?

The exam consists of 180 multiple-choice questions. There are 150 operational questions, and 30 are pretest items. The exam is comprised of 6 major domains. You will have 3 hours to complete the content portion of the exam.

Can I take the exam in a language other than English?

No, CCM online exams and communication will be conducted in English only. If you require a proctor, please notify The Commission staff immediately. 

How many testing locations are available for me to choose from?

Candidates will be able to choose from approximately 5,000 test administration centers in 180+ countries and territories.

Will I receive directions to the testing center?

Yes, once you schedule your exam, you will receive a confirmation email which will include the date and time of testing, location, and directions to the testing center.

What can I expect when I arrive at the testing center or when taking the exam online?

Watch this video to learn more about what to expect at the testing center.

Watch this video to learn more about what to expect when taking the exam online through OnVue.

What is the admission policy for testing in person at a testing center?

Arrive at the testing center 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time to complete the necessary sign-in procedures. If you arrive more than 15 minutes late for your appointment, you may be refused admission, and exam fees will be forfeited.

You will be required to present one form of original (no photocopies), valid (unexpired) government-issued ID that includes your name, photograph, and signature. 

  • The first and last name you used to register must match exactly the first and last name on the ID that is presented on test day.
  • All IDs required must be issued by the country in which you are testing. If you do not have the qualifying ID issued by the country you are testing in, an International Travel Passport from your country of citizenship is required.
  • If you have any questions or concerns about the ID you are required to bring with you, please contact Pearson at https://home.pearsonvue.com/Test-takers/Customer-service.aspx. To view the full ID policy, including any additional allowances to this policy, please visit  http://www.pearsonvue.com/policies/1.pdf.

 Acceptable forms of ID include:

  • Passport
  • Non-U.S. Military ID (including spouse and dependents)
  • Identification card (national or local)
  • Registration card (green card, permanent residence, visa)

Unacceptable forms of identification include:

  • Renewal forms with expired ID
  • Government-issued name change documents with government ID
  • Temporary ID
  • Forms of identification that are no longer valid

By law, certain IDs must not be photocopied, digitized, or captured on camera. Because of this, Pearson cannot accept restricted IDs (including but not limited to U.S. military or certain secure access IDs) as identification for online testing. 

Can I bring personal items into the testing room?

No, this includes all bags, books not authorized by the sponsor, notes, phones, pagers, watches, and wallets.

Will I be able to take a break during my exam?

Whether you are taking the exam remotely or at a testing center, you will have the option for a scheduled 10-minute break in the middle of the exam. You will be prompted when the break is available.

My CCM exam was canceled due to a testing center closure. How can I reschedule and take my exam online through remote proctoring?

If a testing center closure impacts you, you will receive an email or phone call from Pearson with information on how to reschedule your exam. (Be sure to keep your email updated in your account profile and don’t forget to list Pearson as an approved sender!)

My scheduled exam date is approaching, but I would rather take my exam online. How can I reschedule and opt to take the exam online through remote proctoring?

Please log in to your account and select “Manage Exam” to reschedule. 

For my remote proctored exam, how do I check in on exam day?

Select Check-in to start exam on your confirmation, reschedule or reminder emails, OR

  1. Log in: https://www.pearsonvue.com/us/en/thecommission.html
  2. View your upcoming appointment.
  3. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the check-in process.

You will need to complete check-in before you can start your exam. 

We recommend logging into your account 30 minutes early to start the check-in process and to allow for troubleshooting if needed. Checking in early does not guarantee an early admittance or start time. If you are more than 15 minutes late after your scheduled exam time, you will be unable to begin your exam, and you will not receive a refund.

How do I ensure the OnVUE system is compatible with my computer, test it before my scheduled exam, and find other technical requirements?

Learn more here: https://home.pearsonvue.com/Standalone-pages/OnVUE-tips.aspx

Find additional technical requirement information here: https://home.pearsonvue.com/op/OnVUE-technical-requirements

Can I use a corporate computer for my remote exam?

When testing online, you’ll provide your own computer equipment, so be sure you’ve got the following before exam day:

  • Required: a desktop or a laptop computer. Tablets can only be used as a screen, paired with an external keyboard. Touch screens cannot be used for your exam.
  • Required: a single monitor. Remove any extra monitors from the testing room, or at least unplug them before taking your test-space photos during check-in.
  • Required if using an external monitor with a laptop: an external mouse, keyboard, and webcam, and the lid of your laptop must remain closed throughout your exam.

Recommended: a personal computer rather than an employer-issued computer, which may have additional security settings that can interfere with your exam.

How does a remote exam work?

Similar to test center-based testing, online proctored testing requires that you be monitored by a proctor while you take your exam via your microphone and webcam. Before starting the exam, the candidate must present a valid, unexpired government-issued ID that is both signature and photo-bearing. Both ID signature and print must match the candidate’s name in demographics and look like the candidate. Acceptable forms of identification include a driver’s license, military identification card, passport, state identification card, and a valid national identification card. Your image and pictures of your surroundings will be captured. Once you begin the exam, you will not be permitted to leave the room or move out of the proctor’s view. You will have the option for a 10-minute break in the middle of the exam. 

What should I do if I have technical issues during a remote proctored exam?

Your proctor attempts to resolve technical issues in real-time. If an issue cannot be resolved, the proctor will file a case on your behalf. Please contact The Commission™ as soon as possible.

Where can I take my remote proctored exam?

The place where you’ll take your exam is one of your most crucial decisions. For best results, prepare your testing environment before exam day to ensure it will be:

  • Private: Ideally, choose an enclosed space that allows for privacy and prevents others from entering or even passing through once you’ve started your exam. Avoid testing near windows or glass partitions to prevent others from viewing your screen.
  • Quiet: Background noise may distract proctors monitoring your exam session and could interfere with your session.
  • Free from interruptions: Inform any other members of your household that you are taking an exam and cannot be interrupted during it.
  • Well-lit: Proctors must be able to see you and your testing space well. Too much background light (natural or electric) could create visibility issues for your proctor, so avoid sitting in front of a window or other strong light.

Cleared of personal and preparatory items: Clear your desk/workspace of all personal and preparatory items, except for those allowed by your exam program, which must be on the desk during check-in. Keep your mobile phone in the room where you’re testing, but out of arm’s reach; it must be available should we need to contact you.

Will I be able to use my phone while taking my remote proctored exam?

The use of mobile phones is prohibited during your exam. Using your phone may result in your exam session being terminated, and you should prepare to be unreachable by phone while taking your exam. Mobile phones and other electronic devices must be placed out of arm's reach before you begin your exam. If there is a technical software issue during the exam, the proctor will try to contact you online using the software. If the proctor cannot contact you via software, they will call you at the phone number you provided during the check-in process.

What if I use my phone during the exam or take an unauthorized break?

If a Pearson staff determines that a candidate’s actions during the exam violate exam procedures, which includes but is not limited to the use of a cell phone during the exam, taking an unauthorized break, cheating, or if it is discovered that eligibility was obtained under false pretenses, eligibility can be revoked, the exam will shut down, and exam results invalidated, in accordance with the agreements confirmed by candidates in the online application. 

Exam Results

Will I receive instant results once I complete my online remote exam?

Upon completion of the computer-based examination, you will receive a preliminary pass or non-pass result that will display on your screen. The Commission™ will email you the official exam results within six weeks of the end of the exam period.

If I did not pass, how will I be notified of my performance on the exam?

The Commission™ receives the official results from Pearson about 2 weeks after the last day of the exam administration. All candidates will receive an email notification to check their accounts for results. For those who did not pass, the exam results will include their performance for each domain. The Commission™ exams apply three domain breakdown levels: Deficient, Marginal, and Proficient.

I did not pass the exam. How do I interpret my domain breakdown?

The Commission™ exams apply three domain breakdown levels: Deficient (1), Marginal (2), and Proficient (3)

Disclaimer: The domain diagnostic information is intended to provide you with feedback on your performance in each domain area, i.e., your demonstrated areas of strengths and weaknesses. However, prior success in one content area does not guarantee repeated success in the same content area on another attempt at the exam. Therefore, you should use this feedback as a guide to help determine areas to focus on should you elect to retake the exam.

1. Deficient - The score you obtained is below an acceptable level; substantial study of this content area is recommended before retaking the examination.

2. Marginal - The score you obtained is near an acceptable level; study of this content area is recommended before retaking the examination.

3. Proficient - The score you obtained in this domain is at or above the acceptable level. A review of this content area may be helpful to you before retaking the examination.

What is the CCM exam pass rate?

Pass rate is defined as the percentage of people who pass the exam each time it is administered. This rate varies with each administration as well as for first-time exam candidates vs. retake candidates. The pass rate is NOT the exam candidate's score on the exam. For example, annual exam results are included below:

The chart below shows the total numbers from September 1, 2023 - September 1, 2024.

Exam Administrations

Total Number of Candidates

Total Candidate % Passed

Total CCM Certificants Overall*

December 2023, April 2024, & August 2024

6,131

75%

49,636

* The Total CCM Certificants column fluctuates frequently based on The Commission's renewal cycles and eligible candidates. 

I failed the exam. What are my options?

You can schedule a retake for the next cycle by contacting Customer Service at contact@yourcommission.org. The candidate is only permitted one retake per application. The application is only valid for two consecutive exam windows. If you do not schedule the retake in the next consecutive cycle, you will have to reapply and pay the application and exam fee.

Disaster Relief 

I've been impacted by a recent natural disaster, affecting my ability to either participate in education opportunities needed for renewal, or pay fees associated with my application or renewal application. Are there any options available to me?

The Commission recognizes that in the wake of natural disasters and other similar unforeseen circumstances, you may be facing overwhelming challenges. We understand that such circumstances could possibly affect your ability to renew your certification, participate in/purchase education opportunities needed to earn the number of continuing education hours needed, or to be able to apply for the CCM® exam. 

Please don’t hesitate to contact us if you have been impacted by a recent natural disaster and would like to discuss your options with one of our Certification Coordinators.


How often must I renew my certification?

You must renew your certification every 5 years. The “valid through” date is printed on your certificate.

What options do I have for renewal?

There are 2 renewal options:

  1. Documentation of 80 hours of approved CE
  2. Re-examination
Do I need to submit a new application for recertification? 

You will need to complete an online renewal form, submit a copy of your current license, enter your 80 hours of CE, and pay the renewal fee, plus any post-approved CE review fees.

How do I renew my certification?

At the time of renewal, you need to have accrued 80 hours of CE, pay the renewal fee, complete the online renewal application, and meet the requirements within it.

What is the fee for recertification?

Renewal through CE: $285*, Renewal through re-examination: $470* (includes renewal and exam fee) plus any post-approved CE review fees ($15/ea*). *Fees are subject to change. Please see the Renewal Guide for the most up-to-date information.

When can I submit my recertification?

You will be able to complete your online renewal application approximately 3 months before the “valid through” date printed on your certificate. 

I missed the renewal deadline. Can I still renew? 

The Commission will accept and review formal late renewal requests submitted within the first 30 days after the “valid through” date printed on the individual’s certificate. To be considered, the CCM must have the following: documentation of 80 hours of CE, meet the initial education requirements, and a clear and compelling reason with documentation for having missed the deadline. If a request is approved, the CCM will need to pay the standard renewal fee plus an additional late fee. Late renewal requests submitted after 30 days are considered denied without review. Not receiving notification of the renewal deadline, or lack of awareness of the deadline or process, are not valid excuses.

What is the difference between post-approval and pre-approval CE?

Pre-approved courses have been approved by The Commission™. Simply ask the course sponsor before registering. When you complete the activity, the sponsor will provide you with an attendance verification form, including The Commission approval number and the activity code. Any activity that involves a focus area described in the Renewal Guide can be submitted for approval on a post-approval basis; a processing fee will apply, per course. Fees are automatically calculated for you on the website application with easy-to-follow instructions for payment.

What are the fees for post-approval courses?

A single program post-approval fee is $15* per course. *Fees are subject to change. Please see the Renewal Guide for the most up-to-date information.

Where can I find CE providers?

The CE providers listed on The Commission™ website are provided as a service to our certificants and are not meant as an endorsement of any of the listed programs. Providers pay a fee to be listed and may not be pre-approved by The Commission. It is up to the individual to verify pre-approval status with the provider.

How do I enter CE?

Log in to your dashboard and enter your courses as pre-approved or post-approved.

Will I be charged for post-approved CE entered after I reach 80 CE’s?

Yes, you will be charged a review fee for all post-approved CE entered, so enter only your required number of CE’s.

What should I do if I am entering pre-approved credits and can’t find the activity code and approval number?

If it is not on your certificate of attendance, you must contact the provider.

If I earn more than 80 clock hours in a five-year period, may I apply the excess to the next renewal cycle?

No, you cannot. Since continuing education is intended to keep certificants current with emerging trends and technologies, CE must be earned within your current 5-year cycle.

Can I send in my CE documentation?

No, certificants must document their CE activities online. Please save all documentation in case your transcript is audited. You will need to provide all certificates of attendance at that point.

What is the deadline for renewing through re-examination? 

A CCM must exercise the re-examination option before the “valid through” date on their certificate, or the CCM designation will expire. Individuals with expired CCM designations are not permitted to resume using the CCM credential until they have successfully applied for and passed the examination.

Retirement Status

When am I able to go into retirement status (CCM-R)?

Certificants who are retiring from active practice may choose the retirement designation, which changes the CCM certification to an honorary designation. Retired status enables the individual to stay on The Commission’s email list to receive updates from the field of case management. All requests must be made at the time of renewal or within 9 months of expiration.

How long is the retirement designation good for?

Retirement status is good for five years. At the end of the five-year cycle, those who have chosen the retirement designation have the option to renew as a CCM-R or as a CCM.

Reinstatement

Can I actively practice as a CCM while in the CCM-R designation?

No, if an individual believes that he or she may provide consulting or other services in the future using their CCM, he or she should NOT select the retirement designation, but should continue to maintain the CCM certification.

How do I request the CCM-R retirement designation?

To request the retirement status, please complete the retirement request form. Within two weeks of receiving your completed form, The Commission will reach out to you to collect the retirement fee.

How much is the fee for the CCM-R?

Retirement Status (one-time fee) of $100 for five years.

Can I renew my CCM-R retirement designation after the five years?

Yes, simply complete the retirement request form. Within two weeks of receiving your completed form, The Commission will reach out to you to collect the retirement fee. 

What steps do I take to become reinstated as an active CCM?

If an individual’s retirement status changes and he or she wishes to regain use of the CCM, he or she would need to meet the criteria in effect at the time of renewal, including earning all continuing education credits and ethics requirements, in addition to paying the renewal fee at the time of reinstatement. If an individual would like to reinstate by re-examination, please contact The Commission as all requirements noted on the renewal guide must be met.

Upon reinstating my CCM, what would my certification start and end date be?

If your reinstatement month falls between April - November, the start date is the date of reinstatement, and the end date is May 31st. If your reinstatement month falls between December - March, the start date is the date of reinstatement, and the end date is November 30th.  

Code of Conduct

Are all case managers bound by the Code?

Compliance with the rules and standards in the Code is mandatory for every Board-certified Case Manager, those who hold the Certified Case Manager (CCM®) credential from The Commission. The Code is accepted across the industry, but Board-certified Case Managers are the only ones who have been tested on it and are required to follow it.

What's the difference between a professional case manager and a Board-certified Case Manager?

The Commission gives eligible professional case managers an opportunity to be board-certified as case managers across the spectrum of health and human services. We know from the growing demand for Board-certified Case Managers that employers acknowledge their value. Learn more by clicking the Value of Certification menu heading here.

Board-certified Case Managers have demonstrated they have the expertise, knowledge, and professional experience to provide the right services to clients across the continuum of care. They are committed to upholding the highest professional and ethical standards. To maintain their credential, Board-certified Case Managers must comply with the Code of Professional Conduct for Case Managers, which is enforced by The Commission. 

What are the core principles underlying the Code?
  • Principle 1: Board-certified Case Managers (CCMs) will place the public interest above their own at all times.
  • Principle 2: Board-certified Case Managers (CCMs) will respect the rights and inherent dignity of all of their clients.
  • Principle 3: Board-certified Case Managers (CCMs) will always maintain objectivity in their relationships with clients.
  • Principle 4: Board-certified Case Managers (CCMs) will act with integrity and fidelity with clients and others.
  • Principle 5: Board-certified Case Managers (CCMs) will maintain their competency at a level that ensures their clients will receive the highest quality of service.
  • Principle 6: Board-certified Case Managers (CCMs) will honor the integrity of the CCM designation and adhere to the requirements for its use.
  • Principle 7: Board-certified Case Managers (CCMs) will obey all laws and regulations.
  • Principle 8: Board-certified Case Managers (CCMs) will help maintain the integrity of the Code, by responding to requests for public comments to review and revise the Code, thus helping ensure its consistency with current practice.
Who can file a complaint?

Board-certified Case Managers may file a complaint, and so can clients or members of the general public who have power of attorney and are acting on behalf of a client. The Chair of the Committee on Ethics and Professional Conduct may also file a complaint, if he or she has reason to believe, through reliable evidence, that a CCM has violated the Code.

How is the Code enforced?

The Commission encourages clients who believe they were treated unprofessionally to file a complaint. It also requires Board-certified Case Managers to report colleagues who they believe have violated the Code. The Ethics Committee has a process in place to hear and process complaints. The process includes investigation, collection of supporting documentation, and peer review.

How do I file a complaint?

All correspondence related to a complaint must be in writing, marked “CONFIDENTIAL” and addressed to the Committee on Ethics and Professional Conduct, The Commission™, 1120 Rt. 73, Suite 200, Mt Laurel, NJ 08054. 

I have an ethics question about how to handle a certain situation in my practice. How do I get guidance?

The Commission’s™ Committee on Ethics and Professional Conduct provides opinions to Board-­certified Case Managers and members of the public. These are non-binding responses to specific dilemmas. Questions may be submitted to Ethics & Professional Conduct Committee, The Commission, 1120 Route 73, Suite 200, Mt. Laurel, New Jersey 08054.

Where can I learn more about the Code?

View this webinar on the Learning Network. 

Where can I read the Code itself?

You can view the Code here.