Key Takeaways
- The Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP) is a valuable asset for data professionals of all levels to show professional growth and expertise.
- Anyone who works – or aspires to work – in data management, governance, quality, architecture, or strategy is a good candidate to get CDMP-certified.
- Training programs can help data professionals prepare for the CDMP exam, which tests knowledge of DAMA International’s Data Management Body of Knowledge (DMBoK).
- Being able to list yourself as a Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP) can help you stand out among job applicants.
The Certified Data Management Professional
The Certified Data Management Professional (CDMP) designation is DAMA International’s globally recognized certification program for data management professionals to demonstrate growth and commitment in their field. It serves as proof of an individual’s knowledge, skills, and industry experience and can boost career development by increasing earning potential and professional credibility.
For organizations, the certification validates that both current and prospective employees are qualified to manage their data, their most strategic business asset. Companies today can access an ever-growing volume and variety of data, collected at an ever-faster rate, but many lack the expertise to gain valuable insights from it. With the rise of data privacy regulations such as GDPR and CCPA, specialized training is more important than ever.
According to Mark Horseman, data evangelist at DATAVERSITY:
“A certification just isn’t about putting letters behind your name. It’s about showing that you can apply knowledge, and the organization is dedicated to professionals who can execute efficiently for the business.”
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Who Governs the CDMP and What Is It Based On?
DAMA International launched the CDMP in 2004, and as of April 2025, nearly 13,000 professionals have earned its data management certification at one of four levels: Associate, Practitioner, Master, and Fellow. It is widely considered the gold standard for measuring accomplishment in data management.
The CDMP exam tests an individual’s knowledge of DAMA’s Data Management Body of Knowledge (DMBoK 2.0). The reference book provides a comprehensive view of the challenges, complexities, and value of effective data management and contains over 2,000 glossary terms.
Data professionals at all CMDP levels must pass the Data Management Fundamentals exam, which covers 14 topics. There are 11 “knowledge areas,” plus three special sections dedicated to data management processes, ethics, and big data. Those who wish to obtain the more advanced Practitioner or Master status – such as those aspiring to become certified data governance professionals – must also pass two Specialist exams.
There are no prerequisites for any of the CDMP exams. Tests are offered as online proctored exams and those who pass will receive a digital badge that serves as proof of their competencies.
What Domains Are Covered in the CDMP Exam?
All CDMP exams include 100 multiple-choice questions that test an individual’s knowledge and level of competency within each of 14 topics. They are product- and vendor-neutral, developed by data management experts.
The exam question coverage by each of the 14 topics:
- Data Management Process – 2%
- Big Data – 2%
- Data Architecture – 6%
- Document and Content Management – 6%
- Data Ethics – 2%
- Data Governance – 11%
- Data Integration and Interoperability – 6%
- Master and Reference Data Management – 10%
- Data Modelling and Design – 11%
- Data Quality – 11%
- Data Security – 6%
- Data Storage and Operations – 6%
- Data Warehousing and Business Intelligence – 10%
- Metadata Management – 11%
The Specialist exams include:
- Data Modeling and Design
- Metadata
- Data Quality
- Data Governance
- Data Warehousing and Business Intelligence
- Reference and Master Data Management
- Data Integration and Interoperability
Here are a few examples of the types of questions that you might be asked:
What does a data dictionary capture?
- Business definitions of the data
- Any acronym, abbreviation or synonyms used to represent business terminologies
- Policies or rules governing the data
- The structure and contents of data sets, e.g. for a single application
- All of the above
Which of the following is NOT an example of master data?
- A categorization of products
- A list of account codes
- Planned control activities
- A list of country codes
- Currency codes
Within the data governance framework, which component incorporates education, training, and raising awareness?
- Roles
- Processes
- Communication
- Data
- Tools
What Are the CDMP Certification Levels?
The CDMP exams test knowledge, skills, and abilities needed to perform data management job roles, duties, and responsibilities. They are challenging and experience-based – not everyone passes.
Here are the different certification levels:
| Level | Industry Experience | Exam Score Range | Ideal For |
| Associate | Six months to five years (recommended) | Pass the Data Management Fundamentals (DMF) exam with ≥ 60% | Those new to the profession or seeking to establish a foundation in data management |
| Practitioner | Two to 10 years (recommended) | Pass DMF exam and two specialist exams with ≥ 70% | Mid-career professionals with deep knowledge and hands-on experience |
| Master | 10-plus years (required) | Pass DMF exam and two specialist exams with ≥ 80% | Senior-level professionals who demonstrate broad expertise in data management |
| Fellow | 25-plus years (recommended) | N/A (designation by nomination) | Thought leaders who have made significant contributions to the data management field |
As of April 2025, there were 11,821 Associates, 747 Practitioners, and 293 Masters.
There are also currently three CDMP Fellows, who must be nominated for the certification and have at least 25 years of experience in data management. Recipients must have attained Master certification, be globally recognized and respected for thought leadership, have made significant contributions to the data management profession, and have contributed to the CDMP and DMBoK.
Who Should Consider CDMP Certification?
Dr. Anne-Marie Smith, principal consultant at Alabama Yankee Systems, LLC and director of curriculum development at DATAVERSITY (and one of the original CDMP holders), advises all professionals in the fields of data management, data governance, data quality, data architecture, and data privacy professionals to get their CDMP certification:
“For those less experienced, studying for the CDMP can provide a quick way to acquire knowledge about all the areas of data management while learning about the connections between data management systems and functions and their place in any organization. For those more experienced, earning the certification allows them to confirm their knowledge and to learn more about those functions where they have less experience.”
Additionally, organizations recognize the importance of having certified professionals in accounting and other functions, notes Smith. “Having CDMP-certified data management professionals on their staff gives the organization confidence that their data management/data governance/data quality programs are being performed by knowledgeable staff.”
A tour through forums like Reddit provides additional perspectives. One person said that certification has been “a big boost. I went beyond just an Associate level … the CDMP certification has helped me secure a better job and build a strong reputation as the go-to for all things data management.” Another individual noted that “for vendor-neutral, broad-based knowledge of all areas of data management practice, a certification like CDMP is valuable.”
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Benefits of Earning CDMP Certification
The benefits of gaining this certification include:
- Proves in-depth knowledge in the field of data management
- Shows your credibility and expertise in the field
- Makes you highly employable
- Gives you a competitive edge over data peers
- Prepares you for increased job responsibilities
- Commands a higher salary expectation
- Contributes to the progress and maturity of the field
- Provides you with a globally accepted certification standard
- Allows you to become a part of a global professional community
Earning a professional certification can enhance credibility and self-image within your field, while promoting continued learning and professional development and demonstrating knowledge in all areas of enterprise data management, says Smith:
“CDMP certification increases recognition for the individual as a data management/data governance/data quality professional at any level. It provides measurable hiring and promotion qualifications for both individuals and the organizations that hire data management professionals.”
Payscale provides an idea of what you can expect in terms of salary if you have CDMP certification. Average salaries for various roles follow:
- Data Center Manager: $101,124
- Data Architect: $160,790
- Data Manager: $123,237
- Data Analyst: $76,862
“Hiring managers are faced with a barrage of hundreds of resumes that they have to sift through,“ says Horseman. “Educational qualifications, like a certification, really pop out to hiring managers. We’re starting to see more of a reliance on proven skills that a certification grants.”
How to Prepare for the CDMP Exam
There are many ways to prepare for the CDMP exam. Don’t go it alone: DATAVERSITY offers more than 40 different CDMP training options in a variety of learning formats and specialization levels to help you earn your CDMP.
Self-Paced, On-Demand Courses
Preparing for the Data Management Fundamentals exam? The 16-course CDMP Certification and the DMBOK Learning Plan provides foundational knowledge of data management disciplines.
More experienced and ready to take your career in data management to the next level? Choose from these specialist exam preparation learning plans:
Live Online Courses and Study Groups
If you prefer a more interactive learning experience, consider enrolling in one of our instructor-led live online CDMP preparation courses, which are available in flexible formats such as intensive two- to four-day sessions and extended six-week programs.
You can also join fellow data professionals in our free CDMP study groups, a fun and informative way to prepare together, share knowledge with data peers, and make new professional connections.
Other tips and tricks:
- Take practice exams several times. You’ll get one from DAMA when you register and pay for the exam, and you can also find various resources on the web. DATAVERSITY’s training options include several in-course tests as well.
- Go back and reread the DMBoK sections relating to the questions you got wrong in the practice exams.
- The CDMP exam is an “open book” test, so you can have another laptop open with a digital searchable copy of the DMBoK or notes on it. Or you can use a hard copy and highlight key concepts, as well as make notes.
- Since the exam weights areas by different percentages, spend time reviewing those areas that are more heavily weighted.
- Don’t stop training after you pass – look for specialized courses, data management conferences, and on-the-job projects that can help grow your skills.
Your CDMP Questions Answered
What is the meaning of CDMP?
CDMP stands for Certified Data Management Professional. It is a globally recognized data management certification program run by DAMA International, based on its Data Management Body of Knowledge (DMBoK). The certification validates expertise in data management disciplines such as data governance, data quality, metadata and reference data, data architecture, data integration and interoperability, data security, and data modeling and design.
How much does it cost to get CDMP-certified?
The cost for each CDMP exam is $311. For an Associate CDMP, you must pass the Data Management Fundamentals exam. Those looking to achieve a Practitioner or Master CDMP must also pass two additional exams, chosen from seven specialty areas. If you don’t pass the exam the first time, you can retake it for a fee of $211.
What is the CDMP exam format?
CDMP exams are presented in English only and are 90 minutes long. ESL participants may take an additional 20 minutes to complete the exam and use browser translation software, if desired. You do not need to book a time for the exam. CDMP online exams are available 24/7 and are proctored by DAMA’s online proctor, Honorlock.
Does CDMP certification expire?
CDMP certification is valid for three years, after which all certification holders must meet certain requirements to renew their certification. Those working toward Practitioner or Master certification can no longer use their Associate pass mark toward these requirements after three years. To maintain certification after three years, individuals must participate in a CDMP maintenance program that includes earning continuing education credits and data management activities.
Why should I study to prepare for the CDMP exam?
If you are aiming to advance in data management, analytics, and related fields, studying for the CDMP exam is a valuable investment in your future. Taking advantage of study resources can help reinforce your knowledge and improve your test-taking skills.
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