PMI-ACP
PMI's agile certification covering Scrum, Kanban, Lean, XP, and SAFe — ideal for PMs transitioning to agile delivery.
Full guide →PMP
The gold-standard project management certification recognized globally — validates ability to lead projects across any methodology.
Full guide →PMI-ACP vs PMP
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | PMI-ACP | PMP |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | ✓$495 USD | $555 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | +$15,000/yr | ✓+$25,000/yr |
| Passing score | 70/1000 | 70/1000 |
| Exam duration | 180 min | 230 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | PMI | PMI |
| Difficulty |
PMI-ACP
2,000 hours general project experience + 1,500 hours agile experience + 21 hours agile education
PMP
4-year degree + 36 months leading projects + 35 hours PM education (or 60 months with high school diploma)
- You have PM experience and want to formalise agile or multi-methodology skills
- You want a potential +$15,000/yr salary uplift
- You manage delivery across Scrum, Kanban, Lean, or SAFe environments
- You're a seasoned PM targeting the most globally recognised credential
- You want a potential +$25,000/yr salary uplift
Both are in the project management field but target different career stages. Start with PMI-ACP if you're building foundational skills — it's the natural stepping stone. Go straight to PMP if you already meet the prerequisites and want the higher salary ceiling (+$25,000/yr).
Best PMI-ACP courses
Best PMP courses
Is PMI-ACP harder than PMP?
PMP is harder — rated advanced vs intermediate.
Which pays more — PMI-ACP or PMP?
PMI-ACP has an average salary uplift of +$15,000/yr, while PMP has +$25,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — PMI-ACP or PMP?
PMI-ACP is the better starting point — it's rated intermediate and costs less. Use it as a stepping stone toward PMP.
Can I get both PMI-ACP and PMP?
Yes — many professionals hold both. PMI-ACP and PMP complement each other within project management. Holding both signals broader expertise and typically commands a higher salary than either cert alone.
Which is worth it in 2026 — PMI-ACP or PMP?
Both are worth it in 2026. PMI-ACP offers a +$15,000/yr average salary uplift; PMP offers +$25,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.