PMP
The gold-standard project management certification recognized globally — validates ability to lead projects across any methodology.
Full guide →PMI-ACP
PMI's agile certification covering Scrum, Kanban, Lean, XP, and SAFe — ideal for PMs transitioning to agile delivery.
Full guide →PMP vs PMI-ACP
Which certification is right for your career?
Full comparison
| Category | PMP | PMI-ACP |
|---|---|---|
| Exam cost | $555 USD | ✓$495 USD |
| Avg salary uplift | ✓+$25,000/yr | +$15,000/yr |
| Passing score | 70/1000 | 70/1000 |
| Exam duration | 230 min | 180 min |
| Renewal period | Every 3 years | Every 3 years |
| Issued by | PMI | PMI |
| Difficulty |
PMP
4-year degree + 36 months leading projects + 35 hours PM education (or 60 months with high school diploma)
PMI-ACP
2,000 hours general project experience + 1,500 hours agile experience + 21 hours agile education
- You're a seasoned PM targeting the most globally recognised credential
- You want a potential +$25,000/yr salary uplift
- 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
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 PMP courses
Best PMI-ACP courses
Is PMP harder than PMI-ACP?
PMP is harder — rated advanced vs intermediate.
Which pays more — PMP or PMI-ACP?
PMP has an average salary uplift of +$25,000/yr, while PMI-ACP has +$15,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary impact.
Which should I get first — PMP or PMI-ACP?
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 PMP and PMI-ACP?
Yes — many professionals hold both. PMP and PMI-ACP 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 — PMP or PMI-ACP?
Both are worth it in 2026. PMP offers a +$25,000/yr average salary uplift; PMI-ACP offers +$15,000/yr. PMP has the higher salary ceiling — making it the stronger ROI if you can only choose one.