The NAPM Certification Programs

The Certified Purchasing Manager program was adopted by the National Association of Purchasing Management Board of Directors in 1974. To date over 34,500 individuals have earned the credential. Periods are to be used with the acronym C.P.M. to distinguish it from another unrelated certification.

The C.P.M. program is for the entire profession and
focuses on the managerial, administrative, strategic and
tactical aspects of the purchasing, materials, and supply
             management functions.

Information about both programs can be obtained by contacting ISM directly through the ISM website http://www.ism.ws, and through the ISM free Fax-on-Demand service at 800/444-6276. Exam applications and certification applications are available through NAPM-OC, call 714/955-6978.

Four types of certification are granted.

1. Original Certification: The first five-year certification when the candidate is not eligible for Lifetime Certification.
   
   
2. Original Lifetime Certification: The first (and only) certification when the candidate meets all program requirements and has at least 18 years of relevant experience.
   
   
3. Recertification: The subsequent certification of a candidate not yet meeting the requirements for Lifetime Certification. Original and subsequent recertifications are valid for five-year periods.
   
   
4. Lifetime Certification: The certification of a candidate who has received an Original Certification or Recertification now meeting the requirements for Lifetime Certification.

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