A common question we get is, "How long does a CMMC assessment take?"
This is tricky to answer, as there is no one-size-fits-all timeline.
Your organization’s readiness, the quality and completeness of your documentation, and the number and type of External Service Providers (ESPs) you rely on all directly influence how long the process will take.
TLDR: In most cases, organizations can expect 6–10 weeks from the initial meeting to a certificate in hand, assuming the OSC achieves Level 2 certification without major remediation.
There are several key factors that influence the overall timeline:
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Phase 1 – Planning and Readiness Review
This initial phase focuses on scoping, documentation review, and assessment planning. It includes validating your system boundaries, reviewing policies and procedures, and ensuring evidence is available and aligned to requirements. Depending on your level of preparedness, this phase typically takes 3–5 weeks.
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Phase 2 – Assessment Execution
Timelines during Phase 2 can vary significantly between OSCs. Organizations with all-cloud environments, few or no ESPs, and ESPs that are already assessed or listed in the FedRAMP Marketplace tend to move more quickly. Conversely, on-prem environments, unassessed ESPs, or providers requiring physical assessments can extend this phase.
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Conditional Status and Remediation (if applicable)
If your organization does not meet all requirements and receives a Conditional Level 2 status, you will have up to 180 days to remediate identified POA&Ms and complete a close-out assessment with your C3PAO. The speed of this step depends largely on the complexity of the findings and how quickly corrective actions can be implemented and validated.
If you’d like help planning your assessment window or understanding what may accelerate, or delay, your timeline, reach out to our team. We’re happy to walk through the factors that most commonly impact duration and help you plan with confidence.
