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How to Register for PMP Exam: Step-by-Step Guide with Tips and PMI Membership Trick

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How to Register for PMP Exam: Simple Step-by-Step Guide

Becoming a certified Project Management Professional (PMP) is big milestone in project manager career. But before you wear this badge, first step is registration. Many people feel confused and ask how to register for PMP exam. Don’t worry. In this article, I will explain all steps in simple words, one by one.

Step 1: Create Your Account on PMI.org

First step in how to register for PMP exam is to visit official website: www.pmi.org.

Here you must create your account:

  1. Go to website and click on “Register” at top right corner.

  2. Fill your name, email, create username and password.

  3. Confirm your email by clicking link sent to your inbox.

Now you have PMI account. This is your main place for exam, application, PDU tracking, membership and more.

Step 2: Start the PMP Application Form

After login, go to “Certifications” menu and choose PMP Certification. Click “Apply Now”.

You will now start the PMP application form. This part is most important in how to register for PMP exam. You need to provide correct and clear information.

What You Must Fill:

A. Education Details

  • Highest level of education (Bachelor, Master, etc.)

  • School/University name

  • Country and date of graduation

B. Project Management Experience

You must show 36 months (if you have 4-year degree) or 60 months (if no 4-year degree) of project experience in last 8 years.

You need to enter:

  • Project Title

  • Organization Name

  • Job Role

  • Project Duration

  • Number of hours spent in leading tasks

  • Description of what you did (must match PMI process groups like Initiating, Planning, Executing etc.)

Important: Use clear and professional language. No grammar issue. PMI may reject if things not clear.

C. Project Management Education

You need 35 contact hours of project management training. This is often from online course, classroom training, or university course. Enter course name, provider, date, and hours.

Step 3: Submit Application for Review

Once all fields are filled, review everything carefully. Then click Submit.

PMI will now review your application. This process usually takes 5 to 10 days. They may approve directly or ask for more info.

Sometimes, your application may be selected for audit. In this case, you must submit documents like:

  • Copy of certificate/degree

  • Contact hours certificate

  • Signature from manager/supervisor for experience

If audit is successful, you can continue. Don’t panic if selected — it's common part of how to register for PMP exam.

Step 4: Pay the PMP Exam Fee

After application is approved, you will get email and see option to pay exam fee.

Here is very important tip in how to register for PMP exam — become PMI member first before paying!

Why Become PMI Member First?

  • PMP Exam Fee without membership = $555

  • With membership = $405

  • PMI Membership Fee = $139 (including $10 application fee)

  • You save money and get free PMBOK PDF + other resources.

So, click on "Become a PMI Member", complete payment, then return and pay the exam fee at discounted rate.

After payment, your eligibility to take exam is confirmed.

Step 5: Schedule Your PMP Exam

Now you have final step in how to register for PMP exam — scheduling the actual exam.

After payment, PMI sends email with Eligibility ID and link to Pearson VUE website.

Follow these steps:

  1. Click on link to go to Pearson VUE

  2. Create account if first time

  3. Choose exam center (for in-person) or Online Proctored Test (take from home)

  4. Select date and time from calendar

  5. Confirm and schedule

Make sure you choose date where you have enough time to prepare. You have 1 year to take exam after approval, and 3 attempts in that period.

What Happens After You Schedule Exam?

Once you schedule, you get confirmation email with all instructions. If you chose online exam, read rules carefully:

  • Quiet room

  • Webcam and microphone

  • ID proof

  • No other people or noise during test

Also, practice mock exams to build confidence. Don’t wait till last week. PMP exam is not easy, but with good prep, you can do it.

Summary: Full Steps of How to Register for PMP Exam

  1. Create account on PMI.org

  2. Fill PMP application (education, experience, 35 contact hours)

  3. Submit and wait for approval

  4. Become PMI member (optional but cheaper)

  5. Pay the PMP exam fee

  6. Schedule exam through Pearson VUE

Now you fully understand how to register for PMP exam. Just follow these steps one by one and stay focused.

Final Words

Many people feel nervous when thinking about how to register for PMP exam. But it’s not so hard if you go step by step. Most important is to prepare your experience clearly, take 35-hour training, and be honest in your application.

Also, remember to become PMI member before paying. It saves money and gives many benefits. After registration is complete, focus your energy on study and practice.

PMP certification is big step in project management career. Start your journey today, and register without delay.