Body of Knowledge and Exam Blueprint v2.6.1
CIPP/US exam registration, cost and scheduling
IAPP’s standard CIPP/US exam price is US$550 for members and nonmembers before applicable taxes. Buy the exam from IAPP, then schedule through MyIAPP. Appointments are offered year-round through Pearson VUE, subject to local availability. You must schedule and take the exam within one year of purchase.
Who can register and what does the exam cost?
IAPP’s CIPP/US purchase process lists no degree, work experience, course or existing credential requirement for sitting the exam. The designation covers U.S. privacy law, and Pearson offers international testing locations. If you need to test outside the U.S., confirm the available location, language and delivery option before purchasing.
Fee checked November 12, 2026. IAPP’s store lists US$550 for both members and nonmembers on the standard CIPP/US purchase. The store also asks whether you previously attempted CIPP/US or hold another IAPP certification. IAPP offers reduced pricing for qualifying candidates. Select the option that applies to you and confirm the amount and any taxes in your account before paying.
How do you buy and book a CIPP/US appointment?
Build in enough time to prepare and a buffer for limited seats, time-zone differences or an accommodation request. The handbook says exam fees are forfeited if the exam expires. Your date for completing the exam matters as much as the date you book it.
If you are choosing between a weekday test center and an evening OnVUE appointment, compare the whole appointment window. Allow time for check-in, the exam and any travel. Make sure the confirmed appointment time is in your calendar before you arrange work or travel around it.
- Buy the CIPP/US exam through the IAPP Store. Save the receipt and check the expiration date shown on the purchased exam in MyIAPP.
- Check that your MyIAPP name matches your qualifying ID. Open the purchased exam in MyIAPP and use its scheduling link to reach Pearson VUE.
- Choose your delivery method and confirm the local date and time. Schedule at least 24 hours ahead and complete the sitting within the one-year purchase period.
- Save Pearson’s appointment confirmation. It tells you where to test, when to check in and what to bring.
How do you choose a test center or OnVUE?
For a test center, check travel time, acceptable identification and the required arrival time. For OnVUE, confirm eligibility for your location, run Pearson’s system check on your intended computer and network, and check the workspace rules. Use the delivery method on your appointment confirmation when reviewing the handbook.
IAPP’s handbook calls for two qualifying forms of ID at a test center. Read Pearson’s program instructions in advance, especially if your identification was issued in a different country or you recently changed your name. Ask Pearson about a specific ID before you commit to the appointment.
If you need an accommodation, request it when you start scheduling in MyIAPP. The handbook says processing can take up to 30 days. Confirm that the selected delivery method supports your approved arrangement before relying on an appointment date.
What if you need to reschedule or retake it?
Use the Pearson appointment controls linked from your MyIAPP purchase. The candidate handbook gives a 48-hour cutoff for center changes and permits OnVUE changes or cancellations up to 15 minutes after the scheduled start. Finish the change promptly, keep Pearson’s confirmation and ensure any replacement date still falls within the original purchase window.
A missed appointment normally uses the purchased attempt. If you fail, buy a new attempt once your result appears in MyIAPP and choose a sitting at least seven days after the previous attempt. Check the store selector for retake pricing and contact Pearson promptly about an exceptional missed appointment.
What does certification cost after you pass?
The exam fee covers the sitting. The CIPP/US listing describes a separate certification maintenance fee to activate the credential and cover the two-year term, with maintenance included in qualifying IAPP membership. IAPP’s maintenance listing shows US$250 per term and a 20-credit continuing education requirement. Check your MyIAPP account for membership coverage, existing credential terms and any balance before paying.