How to Earn Your CPIM Designation: Step-by-Step Guide

_{August 17, 2025 by JoyAnswer.org, Category : Business}

How do I get my CPIM designation? Find out how to get your CPIM designation. This step-by-step guide covers eligibility, exam preparation, and certification requirements for advancing your career in supply chain and operations management.

How do I get my CPIM designation?

Here’s a clear, step-by-step guide on how to earn your CPIM (Certified in Production and Inventory Management) designation:

Step 1: Understand CPIM Certification

Offered by APICS (now part of ASCM), CPIM validates your knowledge in production, inventory, and supply chain management.
Recognized globally for advancing careers in operations, manufacturing, and supply chain roles.

Step 2: Meet Eligibility Requirements

There are no strict prerequisites to start CPIM, but professional experience in supply chain, manufacturing, or operations is recommended.

Step 3: Choose Your CPIM Path

CPIM offers modular certification:

CPIM Part 1 – Basics of supply chain and operations management.
CPIM Part 2 – More advanced topics like master planning, scheduling, and inventory management.

Some candidates choose to complete both parts sequentially to earn full CPIM designation.

Step 4: Prepare for the Exams

Study Materials: Official APICS/ASCM textbooks, online courses, and practice exams.
Study Methods:
- Self-study with books and online resources
- Instructor-led classes (online or in-person)
- Study groups or bootcamps

Step 5: Schedule and Take the Exams

Exams are computer-based and proctored.
You can take Part 1 and Part 2 separately once you feel prepared.
Passing each part requires a minimum score set by APICS/ASCM.

Step 6: Earn Your CPIM Designation

Upon passing all required modules, you receive the CPIM certification.
The designation demonstrates your expertise in production, inventory, and operations management, enhancing career opportunities and credibility.

Step 7: Maintain Your CPIM Certification

CPIM holders are encouraged to engage in continuing education and professional development to stay current in supply chain practices.

Summary:
To earn your CPIM designation, you study the official materials, pass the required exams, and demonstrate mastery of production and inventory management principles. It’s a structured process that builds both knowledge and career credibility.

To earn the CPIM (Certified in Planning and Inventory Management) designation, you must pass a single comprehensive exam.

1. The Steps to Earn the CPIM Designation

The process of earning the CPIM designation is straightforward.

Choose a study method: Decide whether you want to self-study using the official APICS Learning System, enroll in an instructor-led course offered by an approved partner, or use a combination of both.
Study for the exam: Dedicate time to mastering the eight modules of content. The recommended study time is around 100 hours.
Purchase and schedule the exam: Once you feel prepared, you can purchase the exam credit through the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) website. You then schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center or through their online proctored system.
Take the exam: Pass the single CPIM exam to earn your certification.

2. Eligibility Requirements for the APICS CPIM Exam

There are no formal prerequisites or eligibility requirements to take the CPIM exam. The certification is suitable for both new professionals and seasoned veterans in the fields of production and inventory management. While a background in supply chain or manufacturing is beneficial, anyone can pursue the certification.

3. The Format and Content of the CPIM Exam

The CPIM exam consists of 150 multiple-choice questions and you are given 3.5 hours to complete it. The exam uses a scaled score from 200 to 350, with a score of 300 or higher considered passing. The exam covers eight modules of content:

Align the Supply Chain to Support the Business Strategy
Conduct Sales and Operations Planning (S&OP) to Support Strategy
Plan and Manage Demand
Plan and Manage Supply
Plan and Manage Inventory
Plan, Manage, and Execute Detailed Schedules
Plan and Manage Distribution
Manage Quality, Continuous Improvement, and Technology

4. How Long It Takes to Get a CPIM Certification

The time it takes to get the CPIM certification largely depends on your study method and personal pace. The ASCM recommends about 100 hours of study time to prepare for the exam. For those taking an instructor-led or instructor-supported course, the program typically runs for about 12 to 16 weeks. Self-study can be completed in less time, depending on how many hours you can dedicate per week.

5. Recommended Study Materials for the CPIM Exam

The most highly recommended and effective study material for the CPIM exam is the APICS CPIM Learning System. This comprehensive system includes:

Printed and digital books
An online, interactive platform with quizzes and practice exams
Flashcards and other learning activities
The official CPIM Exam Content Manual (ECM), which is the official guide to the exam's body of knowledge.

The Learning System is the only exam prep system guaranteed to be aligned with the current CPIM exam. Additionally, joining a study group, whether in-person or online, can provide valuable peer support and discussion.