Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM)
The Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM) certification establishes your expertise in leading privacy programs and ensuring compliance across business operations. It’s the world’s first and only certification focused specifically on privacy program management.
What is Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM)?
CIPM, developed by IAPP, is the global benchmark for privacy management. It validates your ability to design, implement, and maintain a privacy framework that supports compliance with data protection laws like the GDPR.
It's perfect for professionals that are responsible for integrating privacy into daily business processes and organizational culture.
This CIPM certification guide was written by our team of cyber security experts.
What topics does a CIPM certification cover?
The CIPM curriculum focuses on two main areas:
Privacy Program Governance
Establishing a privacy vision, defining strategy, and creating a framework for compliance.
Privacy Program Operational Life Cycle
Implementing and managing ongoing processes, including monitoring, auditing, and continuous improvement.
Both topics also cover essential skills like risk management, policy development, performance measurement, and incident response.
How do I earn a CIPM certification?
To become CIPM certified, candidates must:
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Register for the CIPM exam via the IAPP.
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Prepare using recognized materials or attend a CIPM preparation course.
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Pass the exam, which tests privacy program governance, implementation, and management concepts.
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Maintain certification by earning Continuing Privacy Education (CPE) credits annually to stay compliant with evolving regulations.
What are the pre-requisites of a CIPM certification?
There are no formal prerequisites to sit for the CIPM exam. However, candidates typically have experience in:
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Data protection and compliance management
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Risk or governance roles
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Privacy operations or information security
Which roles require a CIPM certification?
The CIPM certification is ideal for professionals responsible for implementing and managing privacy frameworks. It's also well-suited for professionals seeking to move into leadership positions in privacy or compliance. Relevant roles include:
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Privacy Program Manager
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Compliance or Risk Manager
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Information Governance Lead
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Legal or Data Governance Consultant
With GDPR and global data protection standards continuing to evolve, employers value CIPM holders for their ability to operationalise privacy strategies.
Is CIPM worth it?
CIPM is one of the most valuable certifications for professionals in privacy, compliance, and governance.
Career development
It helps professionals transition into senior privacy leadership roles.
Industry credibility
CIPM demonstrates advanced understanding of privacy management aligned with international standards.
Earning potential
IAPP-certified professionals, including CIPM holders, earn between £70,000–£110,000 in the UK and around $200,000 in the US depending on experience.
Employer demand
As privacy compliance becomes a strategic business function, CIPM-certified professionals are increasingly sought after across technology, healthcare, finance, and legal sectors.
Prepare for CIPM with our course
Our Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM) training is the premier course on implementing a privacy program framework, managing the privacy program operational lifecycle and structuring a privacy team.
Prepare for the CIPM exam
What is the exam structure of Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM)?
The CIPM exam includes 90 multiple-choice questions to be completed in 150 minutes. It tests knowledge of privacy program governance and operational lifecycle management.
Candidates must achieve a minimum score of 300 out of 500 to pass. The exam is available in English and delivered through Pearson VUE testing centers or via online proctoring. It evaluates practical application of privacy principles in real-world scenarios.
What study resources are available for CIPM?
To prepare effectively, QA offers the CIPM training course, which is fully aligned with the IAPP’s official syllabus.
Additional study materials include:
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Official textbook: Privacy Program Management, Third Edition
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IAPP practice questions and sample exams
These resources support structured learning and reinforce key governance and operational concepts.
Does a CIPM certification expire?
Yes. CIPM certification holders must earn 20 Continuing Privacy Education (CPE) credits annually and pay a renewal fee to maintain certification. This ongoing requirement ensures professionals remain up to date with emerging privacy laws, frameworks, and operational practices.
Why choose QA for CIPM training?
Trusted partner of IAPP
QA is an official training partner providing privacy professionals with IAPP training anywhere in the world.
Expert-led training
Our IAPP training courses are the foundation of preparation for IAPP certification exams and the best way to gain in-depth knowledge of laws, regulatory environments, and operational issues.
More ways to learn
Our expert-led CIPM training can be taken virtually with an instructor, or in-person in a classroom.
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