FAQs

The Certification Commission of NAMSS offers an online practice exam with sample questions similar in type to those that will be found on the actual examination. The practice exam was designed using the same specifications as the full exam. The CPMSM Practice Examination is composed of 50 multiple-choice questions and is intended to provide individuals with a sample of the type of questions that will be asked. These practice questions do not appear on the certification examination. Success on the practice exam does not guarantee positive results on the certification exam.

The practice exam is best taken using a high-speed Internet connection, such as DSL or cable. The cost of the practice exam is $50.00. You will have four hours to complete the test from the time of access.  You will have a 48 hour window to complete the four hour exam.  You cannot re-enter this test once you have submitted it for scoring. Remember, you are allotted four hours to complete the actual CPMSM exam.  With that in mind, for comparison purposes only, you should be able to complete the practice test within approximately one hour. Feedback on answers is provided, and your test score results will be immediate. 

To access the practice exam, please click here.

The CCN and the Board of Directors of NAMSS has unanimously voted to change the CE requirements for dual certificants (beginning in 2010).  During the decision making process for this change, both Boards recognized that the two certifications (CPMSM and CPCS) were created because there are distinct differences in the level of skill, knowledge and expertise needed to perform the specific job functions and to pass each exam. Therefore, since such differences exist initially, the same holds true for recertification. Extensive research identified overwhelming evidence indicating organizations offering multiple certifications and/or licensures typically have specific recertification/re-licensure requirements for each certification/license held.   Therefore, beginning with the 2010 recertification cycle, all dual certificants will be required to obtain 45 CE credits for recertification, of which 25 must be NAMSS approved. This requirement becomes effective with the first recertification cycle in which you hold dual certification for the entire three-year period.  For example, if you were, or are due for:

• Recertification in 2007, 45 credits will be due in the next recertification cycle of 2010.

• Recertification due in 2008, 45 credits will be due in the next recertification cycle of 2011.

• Recertification due in 2009, 45 credits will be due in the next recertification cycle of 2012.

These changes were made in an effort to enhance continued knowledge, ability and proficiency in each field represented by certification.  The change will also be the first step of many to raise the level of our profession. NAMSS and the CCN have begun the work through the Industry and Government Relations Committee to have the Certifications of NAMSS recognized in the standards of regulatory bodies.  In the coming months, the CCN will be working to define what will be accepted as a CE and any equivalent CE sources for the purpose of recertification.  In addition, we will offer information regarding the many ways available to obtain additional CE outside of the NAMSS Conference and your respective State Conferences.  Please continue to check the NAMSS Web site and Synergy for further information regarding these subjects.  If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact the NAMSS Executive Office and/or the members of the Certification Commission at certification@NAMSS.org or 202-367-1196.