What is CMMC in a Nutshell?

Last updated November 4, 2025

Table of Contents

• What Is CMMC?
• Is CMMC Worth It?
• What Is Required for CMMC Certification?
• How to Get CMMC Certification?
• Can You Self-Certify CMMC?
• How Long Does It Take To Get CMMC Certification?
• How Much Does It Cost To Become CMMC Certified?
• How Long Does a CMMC Assessment Take?
• How Long Is CMMC Certification Good For?
• How Is CMMC Different from NIST?
• CMMC Certification FAQs

Cyberattacks aren’t slowing down anytime soon. Cybercrime will cost $10.29 trillion globally in 2025, and is predicted to increase to roughly $16 trillion by 2029.1 This means there are more attacks than ever, affecting every industry, including defense contractors. From ransomware and phishing to state-sponsored espionage, threat actors can exploit every weak link in the supply chain to expose sensitive government data.

To address these risks, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) introduced the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), a standardizedcybersecurity framework that verifies whether contractors have the right cybersecurity practices in place. As a tiered model, the CMMC recognizes that not all organizations face the same level of risk and tailors its requirements accordingly. Ultimately, it ensures cybersecurity practices match the sensitivity of the information an organization manages.

This guide offers a clear CMMC overview. Learn what CMMC compliance is, what the requirements are, how much certification costs, and why it’s crucial in today’s digital landscape.

What Is CMMC?

The CMMC definition is a cybersecurity framework the DoD uses to assess the cybersecurity hygiene of its contractors and subcontractors — in other words, how well its contractors and subcontractors protect sensitive data. It defines a set of CMMC standards and guidelines that help organizations strengthen their cybersecurity posture and show compliance.

Think of the model as a three-tier ladder, with each rung representing a higher level of CMMC 2.0 compliance. To partner with the DoD, every organization must meet the right CMMC certification level for the type of work and data involved. For example, contractors handling highly sensitive defense information typically need Level 3 certification.

Each level requires increasingly stringent security practices and controls. The more advanced the level, the more attractive your business becomes to the DoD. Since 2024, the previous five-tier model has been streamlined into three stages under CMMC 2.0, the latest version of the framework.

CMMC Level 1: Foundational

This level establishes essential CMMC requirements, including access management, password policies, and basic incident response. It’s a self-assessment level, ideal for companies already practicing fundamental security hygiene — think email encryption, multi-factor authentication, and vulnerability scanning.

You need to pass 15 requirements to complete this level.

CMMC Level 2: Advanced

At this stage, you must document security practices and formalize your existing controls. Expect to strengthen data encryption, logging, and malware defense to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). 

Although there are two assessment pathways for Level 2, self-assessment or CMMC Third Party Assessor Organization (C3PAO) assessment, the vast majority of companies will go through a third-party assessment. C3PAO third-party assessments ensure your processes meet the CMMC guidelines and NIST SP 800-171, a set of guidelines published by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) aimed at safeguarding CUI. 

There are a total of 110 requirements for this level.

CMMC Level 3: Expert

This is the top level of CMMC 2.0 compliance. Reserved for those entrusted with the DoD’s most sensitive information, it focuses on continuous security measures, such as threat hunting, penetration testing, continuous monitoring, and incident response exercises. 

You’ll need to meet 134 requirements to achieve this level.

What Is the Point of CMMC?

The purpose of CMMC is to safeguard the defense industrial base against cyber threats. By setting uniform CMMC standards, the DoD ensures contractors adopt consistent, protective cybersecurity measures. By instilling a culture of continuous improvement and maturity in cybersecurity practices, CMMC creates a resilient defense ecosystem that can withstand today’s complex cyber warfare landscape.

What Is the CMMC Compliance for Defense Contractors?

Defense contractors are among the most directly affected by CMMC requirements. Their eligibility to work with the DoD depends on meeting the right CMMC compliance level for the data they handle. Without certification, contractors risk losing existing contracts and becoming ineligible for future bids.

In short, CMMC compliance for DoD contractors isn’t optional. Each organization must show adherence to the CMMC standards and guidelines outlined in CMMC 2.0, proving that its cybersecurity controls meet DoD expectations.

Organizations Must Make Their Network Compliant

Besides achieving CMMC compliance to continue working with the DoD, organizations should also ensure their network — including servers, cloud services, and workstations — is compliant with the latest CMMC standards and guidelines. This involves identifying every system that stores, processes, or transmits CUI or Federal Contract Information (FCI) and making sure those systems meet the applicable CMMC requirements.

Is CMMC Worth It?

Yes. CMMC certification is worthwhile for any business wishing to work with the Department of Defense. Achieving CMMC 2.0 compliance makes your business eligible to work with the DoD and strengthens its cybersecurity measures. The certification gives you an edge over uncertified rivals and lowers your firm’s susceptibility to cyberattacks.

Beyond eligibility, CMMC certification demonstrates accountability to clients and regulators. Many contractors use CMMC certification services to streamline documentation and prepare for the formal CMMC compliance audit, ensuring every policy, control, and report aligns with DoD expectations. These third-party experts can also provide ongoing CMMC compliance support, keeping your organization aligned with evolving CMMC 2.0 guidelines and future framework updates.

Although CMMC certification is expensive, the potential benefits far exceed the initial and ongoing expenses. If anything, the cost of non-compliance can be staggering since it could lead to the loss of DoD contracts.

The true cost of complying with CMMC guidelines varies drastically between companies and covers staff training, consultant fees, and cybersecurity upgrades. Since CMMC compliance is a mandatory requirement for DoD CMMC compliance contractors, it’s best to consider it a business investment in bolstering your company’s cybersecurity posture.

Typically, the four factors that determine the CMMC certification cost include:

• Size: Large companies often have complex network infrastructure and will need more resources to attain compliance.
• Urgency: How fast do you need to get up to speed? The shorter the timeframe, the heftier the price tag. Pulling off a fast, seamless certification calls for a bigger workforce, overtime, and expertise, requiring a bigger budget.
• The level of security needed: The type of services you offer determines the level of CMMC compliance your business needs. An expert certification requires a comparatively higher budget than a foundational certification.
• Your IT hygiene: Your current IT practices are the biggest drivers of your possible CMMC bill. It only takes a few changes to become CMMC Level 1 compliant if you practice excellent basic cybersecurity hygiene. Updating outdated IT infrastructure or poor security measures carries a higher price tag.

Besides the initial costs, compliance with CMMC standards carries ongoing costs, such as periodic network upgrades, cybersecurity audits, and continuous employee training.

What Is Required for CMMC Certification?

The requirements for CMMC certification depend on the level you’re working toward, as detailed below:

• Level 1: Complete an annual self-assessment and affirmation of compliance with 15 security requirements outlined in FAR clause 52.204-21.
• Level 2: Complete either a self-assessment or C3PAO assessment every three years (depending on DoD request). Also, complete an annual affirmation of compliance with 110 security requirements in NIST SP 800-171 Revision 2.
• Level 3: Achieve CMMC Level 2 status, undergo a DIBCAC security assessment every three years, and provide an annual affirmation of compliance with 24 NIST SP 800-172 requirements.

You can review the DoD’s website for more details about the CMMC level you’re applying for.

How To Get CMMC Certification?

The steps to getting CMMC 2 compliance certification depend on the level your organization is targeting.

• Level 1 requires an annual self-assessment and affirmation that you meet the 15 basic safeguarding requirements in FAR 52.204-21.
• Level 2 maps directly to the 110 controls in NIST 800-171. It generally requires a third-party assessment by an accredited C3PAO.
• Level 3 adds 24 advanced requirements from NIST SP 800-172 for organizations handling the DoD’s most sensitive data. It’s also assessed by a C3PAO.

Follow these steps to get Level 1 CMMC compliance:

1. Review the 15 FAR 52.204-21 requirements and map them to your existing policies.
2. Identify systems that store or transmit Federal Contract Information (FCI).
3. Implement basic protections, including user access controls, MFA, secure passwords, and device encryption.
4. Document procedures and keep evidence of safeguards.
5. Submit the annual self-assessment and affirmation through the DoD’s Supplier Performance Risk System (SPRS).

Here’s a summary of the 8-step CMMC certification process for Levels 2 and 3:

1. Conduct a readiness self-assessment.
2. Improve IT processes and document policies.
3. Define your scope of service.
4. Perform a gap analysis.
5. Remediate vulnerabilities.
6. Engage a C3PAO.
7. Undergo the formal assessment.
8. Receive certification once remediation is verified.

Can You Self-Certify CMMC?

Organizations can only self-certify their CMMC requirements for Level 1. In rare cases, they may also be able to self-certify for Level 2. However, most organizations seeking Level 2 and all seeking Level 3 certification will need to seek the services of a third-party assessor.

How Long Does It Take To Get CMMC Certification?

The length of time it takes to achieve CMMC certification depends on the level you seek:

• Level 1: If you’re already security-savvy and handling basic FCI, this basic level with access controls and password policies can be conquered in 3 to 10 months.
• Level 2: This level demands documented practices, risk assessments, and third-party audits, requiring 7 to 16 months.
• Level 3: Mastering advanced measures like threat hunting and continuous monitoring takes anywhere from 16 to 30 months. It’s reserved for those protecting the DoD’s most sensitive data.

Remember, these are only estimates. The actual time can vary depending on your organization’s size, complexity, and existing security infrastructure. To streamline the process, you should assess your current cybersecurity practices and align them with the specific CMMC certification requirements for your chosen level.

How Much Does It Cost To Become CMMC Certified?

CMMC certification costs depend on several factors, including:

• Soft costs: This category includes expenses related to assessments, planning, budgeting, training, documentation, and audit preparation.
• Remediation costs: This segment covers the substantial expenses of upgrading IT systems, facilities, and relevant technologies. It often constitutes the largest portion of the overall cost.
• Cost of time: Time is a significant cost factor, as it will take time for IT support, management, and employees to prepare for CMMC certification.
• Assessment costs: An assessment is mandatory for most Level 2 (formerly Level 3) companies. In such cases, a third-party assessor, known as a C3PAO (Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization), conducts the formal CMMC assessment. While official assessment costs have yet to be published, estimated figures are predicted to start at around $3,000.
• Maintenance costs: Sustaining the implemented measures, including soft costs, remediation efforts, and ongoing assessments, adds to the long-term expenses of maintaining CMMC compliance.

Here are some CMMC cost estimates from the Federal Register:

• Level 1 certification assessment: $4,000 to $6,000
• Level 2 self-assessment costs and affirmation: $34,300 to $43,500
• Level 2 certification with third-party assessment: $112,400

Level 3 certification assessment: Same as Level 2 certification with third-party assessment, plus level-specific security requirements, which could be an additional $9,000 to $39,050, depending on organizational type.

How Long Does a CMMC Assessment Take?

The CMMC certification timeline depends on the level you’re aiming for.

Level 1

It takes around 1 to 5 months for organizations to self-assess for Level 1 CMMC requirements. The organization’s size and complexity impact the exact timeline. Duties include spotting risks and gaps by comparing your current cybersecurity posture against CMMC requirements.

Level 2

Level 2 requires a more thorough examination. Be prepared for 7 to 16 months of gap analysis, documentation preparation, in-depth interviews, rigorous documentation reviews, and comprehensive technical tests conducted by the C3PAO. This deep dive ensures your systems comply with NIST SP 800-171 standards and are robust enough to protect CUI.

Level 3

Level 3 may require 16 to 30 months of intense scrutiny, with ongoing monitoring, threat-hunting simulations, and continuous reviews by the C3PAO. This grueling process ensures your defenses are impregnable, safeguarding the DoD’s most sensitive data.

How Long Is CMMC Certification Good for?

Generally speaking, CMMC 2 certification is valid for three years from the date of issuance. After this period, your company must undergo CMMC compliance certification again to maintain its certification status. This will mirror your initial certification process by a C3PAO to ensure continued compliance with the required CMMC level.

How Is CMMC Different from NIST?

The distinction between CMMC and NIST lies in their approach to cybersecurity controls. While NIST provides guidelines and recommendations for cybersecurity, CMMC goes a step further by introducing a certification process with specific rules tailored to different maturity levels.

CMMC controls are structured according to the five maturity levels — practices and processes organizations must implement to achieve compliance. Unlike NIST, which offers guidelines without a certification mandate, CMMC requires DIB partners to undergo assessments and obtain certification at their designated maturity level.

These CMMC controls serve as the backbone, defining the specific cybersecurity measures institutions must have in place to secure sensitive defense information effectively. The tiered nature of CMMC controls ensures a graduated and adaptive cybersecurity approach that aligns with the evolving threat landscape.

New DoD contracts now require Level 2 CMMC certification. As such, self-assessments are no longer sufficient. If you delay preparation, you risk falling behind competitors. Book an intro call with Trava Security’s CMMC experts to get compliant now.

CMCC Certification FAQs

What is CMMC compliance?

Here’s the CMMC for dummies definition: it refers to meeting the cybersecurity standards outlined by the Department of Defense’s Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). It ensures that contractors handling Federal Contract Information (FCI) or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) have the proper security practices in place to protect sensitive data.

What are CMMC standards and guidelines?

CMMC standards and guidelines outline the practices, controls, and processes organizations must implement to achieve certification. These guidelines are based on NIST SP 800-171 and NIST SP 800-172 and help defense contractors safeguard DoD information systems from cyber threats.

What is CMMC 2.0 compliance?

CMMC 2.0 compliance is the updated version of the DoD’s cybersecurity framework. It streamlines the original five levels into three — Foundational, Advanced, and Expert — while aligning closely with NIST requirements. This version emphasizes accountability, flexibility, and cost-effectiveness for contractors.

What are CMMC practices?

CMMC practices are the specific security activities and processes organizations must perform at each certification level. These practices range from basic password management and access control at Level 1 to advanced measures like continuous monitoring and threat hunting at Level 3.

What is the definition of CMMC?

CMMC, or Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification, is a tiered framework created by the U.S. Department of Defense to verify that contractors and subcontractors maintain adequate cybersecurity to protect sensitive defense information.

What is required for CMMC compliance?

To achieve CMMC compliance, organizations must meet a defined set of practices and processes depending on their desired certification level. These include completing self-assessments or third-party audits, implementing the required controls, and maintaining ongoing cybersecurity hygiene.

What is the CMMC compliance checklist?

A CMMC compliance checklist typically includes steps such as performing a gap analysis, identifying CUI within your systems, implementing NIST 800-171 controls, engaging a C3PAO assessor, and maintaining documentation for continuous monitoring and recertification. Listen to this podcast about getting CMMC right to learn more about tools and tips for achieving and maintaining CMMC compliance.

How long does it take to get CMMC certified?

The CMMC certification timeline depends on the level pursued and your organization’s current cybersecurity posture. Level 1 can take 3 to 10 months, Level 2 often takes 7 to 16 months, and Level 3 may require 16 to 30 months due to advanced testing and documentation requirements. A reliable CMMC compliance consulting partner can tell you more about your exact timeline.

How long is CMMC certification valid?

CMMC certification is valid for three years. After that period, organizations must undergo a reassessment and recertification to ensure continued compliance with the latest CMMC standards and evolving DoD cybersecurity requirements.

Can organizations self-certify under CMMC 2.0?

Yes, organizations can self-certify for Level 1 compliance under CMMC 2.0. However, higher levels (Level 2 and Level 3) require third-party or government-led assessments to verify cybersecurity practices and controls.

What is the difference between CMMC and NIST?

While NIST provides guidelines for cybersecurity practices, CMMC builds on those guidelines by requiring formal certification. NIST outlines what organizations should do, whereas CMMC verifies that contractors have done it through audits and assessments.

How does CMMC compliance apply to DoD contractors?

DoD contractors and subcontractors must achieve CMMC compliance to qualify for defense contracts. The appropriate certification level depends on the type of information handled. Non-compliance can disqualify a contractor from bidding or maintaining existing contracts.

How can a CMMC compliance consultant help?

Accredited CMMC compliance consultants help organizations interpret the standards, prepare documentation, close security gaps, and guide them through assessments. They will compare organizations’ cybersecurity posture against their CMMC compliance checklist and run CMMC compliance audits to make sure they’ve met all requirements. Using expert CMMC consultation services often reduces costs, the CMMC certification timeline, and risks of audit failure.

What are CMMC compliance services?

CMMC compliance services include readiness assessments, gap analyses, remediation planning, documentation support, and coordination with C3PAOs. These services streamline the certification journey and ensure all practices align with DoD cybersecurity expectations.

Is CMMC certification worth it?

Yes. Earning CMMC certification not only enables DoD contract eligibility but also enhances your organization’s cybersecurity resilience, reputation, and trust with government and private-sector clients.

What is the CMMC certification timeline?

The CMMC certification timeline varies by organization but typically includes stages such as assessment planning, gap remediation, third-party review, and final certification. Expect a total duration of 3 to 18 months, depending on readiness and level. 

Talk to Trava Security to learn what the CMMC requirements are for your chosen level.

How much does CMMC Level 2 certification cost?

CMMC Level 2 certification costs can start around $34,300 for self-assessments and reach six figures for third-party audits. The final cost depends on your IT maturity, the number of systems in scope, and how quickly you need certification. For more information about how much CMMC certification costs, contact us at Trava Security today.

Resources:

Statista. (2025). Topic: Cybercrime worldwide. Statista. https://www.statista.com/topics/13546/cybercrime-worldwide/