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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
