About the CMP Program

The Convention Industry Council (CIC) launched the Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) program in 1985 to:

  • enhance the knowledge and performance of meeting professionals,
  • promote the status and credibility of the meeting profession,
  • and advance uniform standards of practice.

Today, the CMP credential is recognized globally as the badge of excellence in the meeting, convention, exhibition, and event industry. The qualifications for certification are based on professional experience, education, and a rigorous exam.

Created by and for Meeting Professionals

The CMP exam was developed and is maintained by meeting professionals from all over the world who volunteer their time to ensure that the program reflects the best practices in the meeting management field. More than 10,000 meeting professionals in 55 countries around the globe hold the CMP designation. This unique community represents every sector of the industry—from corporations and associations to government and institutional organizations. The CMP program aims to increase the professionalism of meeting management professionals in all sectors of the industry by:

  • Identifying a comprehensive body of knowledge in the meeting management profession
  • Promoting industry standards, practices and ethics
  • Stimulating the advancement of the art and science of meeting management
  • Increasing the value of Certified Meeting Professionals to their employers
  • Maximizing the value received from the products and services provided by CMPs

NOTE: Approximately 100 hours of studying is required to pass the exam, and 25 hours of approved continuing education is required every 5 years to keep the designation current.