Certified Disability Management Specialist - FAQs

Certification

CDMS Certified Disability Management Specialist

Earn the only independent, nationally accredited certification for disability management specialists.

Exam Application Dates:
April 1 - June 30, 2026
Renewal Application Dates:
February 1 - March 31, 2026

What is the Certification for Disability Management Specialist?

The Certification of Disability Management Specialists (CDMS) credential has a rich history that spans 30 years. Offering the only independent, nationally accredited program that certifies disability management specialists, the CDMS credential is the industry standard in workplace solutions and has long been recognized for excellence. It promotes competence, high professional standards, and ethical practice in the field.

How much is the application?

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

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 will be notified and assigned a candidate ID number. Then, you can schedule your exam at a local computer-based testing site. After you take the exam, you will be notified of your test results and mailed a certificate and letter of certification if you have passed.

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

Go to "Log In" and choose “Forgot Password”. Your password will be emailed to the email listed in your CDMS record.

How do I know if my employment is acceptable?

Only paid employment is accepted. Internships and volunteer activities are NOT acceptable forms of employment experience. At the time of application, you must be able to attest that, within the past five years, your work experience aligns with at least 2 of the 4 domains/practice areas. Complete details on acceptable work experience can be found in the CDMS Certification Guide.

Do I need a Bachelor’s degree in a specific field?

Your degree can be in any field; however, the granting college or university must have been accredited at the time the degree was conferred by one of the national or regional accrediting associations accredited by the Council on Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

My application was denied. What can I do?

You can appeal the decision by making a request through your dashboard 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.

How do I receive my CDMS certificate?

More information can be found here.

How do I schedule my exam?

After applying for a CDMS exam, being approved, and receiving your exam scheduling instructions, you can log in to your account with The Commission and select "Manage Exam" to schedule your appointment.

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 the upcoming exam and are not listed on the approved comfort list, please indicate that you will require accommodations when you fill out your initial application. You will have the option to indicate what is needed and upload a copy of a physician's note or any other information. The deadline to request a special accommodation is the end of the application window. See the application timeline. 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 150 multiple-choice questions. 25 are pretest items. The exam is comprised of 4 major domains and 27 subdomains. You will have 3.5 hours to complete the content portion of the test.

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

No, CDMS 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: https://youtu.be/L1wNSNzdlNw 

Watch this video to learn more about what to expect when taking the exam online through OnVue: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OSWXzhavOwg

How do I prepare for the exam?

The Commission does not endorse any particular study materials or preparation courses. However, in response to the increased need for educational resources, The Commission has developed the CDMS Core Knowledge Curriculum (CKC) – a unique online learning program within the disability management field. You can access comprehensive knowledge, skills, interactive exercises, and case study examples all in one place. This curriculum is not intended solely as an exam preparation course, but it may be used as a supplement. Also available is the CDMS Practice Exam and CDMS Glossary App.

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 that 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 to the testing center for admittance for your exam, 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-US Military ID (including spouse and dependents)
  • Identification card (national or local)
  • Registration card (green card, permanent residence, visa)

Unacceptable forms of ID:

  • Renewal forms with expired IDs
  • 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 CDMS exam was canceled due to testing center closures. How can I reschedule to 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 address up to date 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.
  4. 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 Pearson 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. 

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 exams. 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 VUE 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. 

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 their 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.

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 prior to retaking the examination.

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

What is the CDMS exam pass rate?

The 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 the 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 shows the total numbers from September 01, 2023, to September 30, 2024

Exam Administration

Total Number of Candidates

Total Percentage of Candidates Passed

Total CDMS Certificants*

September 2023, March 2024, & September 2024

164

72%

1,820

* The total CDMS 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.

I had an unforeseen circumstance happen to me. I would like to defer to the next cycle. What do I do?

You can request a one-time deferment by first contacting Pearson via their website to cancel the original exam appointment. Then contact The Commission’s Customer Service at 856-380-6836 or contact@yourcommission.org to set up a deferment. Deferment can be made any time between the time of initial approval and the week before the last day of the next exam cycle. If you do not take the exam in the first available cycle and you fail to schedule a deferral, you will need to complete a new application and pay the application and exam fees.

I am unable to take the exam. Can I receive a refund?

If you are unable to take the test during the exam cycle for which you are approved, you may request and pay a one-time deferment to the next consecutive exam cycle. To make this request, you must first contact Pearson to cancel the original appointment. Then contact The Commission’s Customer Service at 856-380-6836 or contact@yourcommission.org to set up a deferment. If you do not take the exam and you do not schedule a deferment, you will have to reapply and pay for a new application and exam. 

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 CDMS® 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.

What options do I have for renewal?

There are two renewal options:
1: Documentation of 80 hours of approved CE
2: Re-examination

What is the fee for recertification?

Renewal through Continuing Education: $285*, renewal through re-examination: $475*, 
late fee: $175 (add to the rate above if submitting your application during the late period) 

*Fees are subject to change. Please see the CDMS Renewal Guide for the most up-to-date information

How do I enter CE?

You can report your continuing education activities in your dashboard as you complete them or anytime up to the day of submission. 

Do I need to send the original certificates when submitting CEs?

No, unless requested, do not send any paperwork to the CDMS office. All continuing education activities are recorded online by the candidate for recertification. Certificates of completion should be maintained by the candidate and readily available if they are asked to produce them as part of a random recertification audit.

Why might my application be audited?

Each year, The Commission randomly selects 10% of recertification applications for audit. To obtain more information on recertification audits, review the CDMS Renewal Guide. 

If a program/activity is not pre-approved, can I still receive credit, and what do I need to do?

Yes, but the program/activity must fall within one of the domains of practice. For complete details, review the CDMS Renewal Guide.

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

Certificants who are retiring from active practice may choose the retirement designation, which changes the CDMS 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 status 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 CDMS-R or renew as a CDMS.

Can I actively practice as a CDMS while in the retirement designation?

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

How do I request the retirement status?

To request the retirement status, please complete the retirement request form. Once you submit your form, The Commission will reach out to you to collect the retirement fee.

How much is the fee for the CDMS-R?

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

Can I renew my retirement status after the five years?

Yes, simply complete the retirement request form. Once you submit your form, The Commission will reach out to you to collect the retirement fee.

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

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