CMMC

Organizations that want to contract with the Department of Defense (DoD) must achieve CMMC compliance. The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC), governed by the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment (OUSD(A&S)), establishes strict cybersecurity requirements for the Defense Industrial Base (DIB).

However, achieving CMMC compliance is not simple. The framework is comprehensive, structured, and maturity-driven — meaning organizations must implement both technical controls and institutionalized processes.

In this guide, we break down the top five challenges for CMMC compliance and how contractors can overcome them.

If your organization handles Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) for the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD), understanding CMMC Level 3 requirements is essential.

Level 3 represents advanced cybersecurity maturity and focuses on protecting sensitive defense information from advanced persistent threats (APTs). In this guide, we break down:

• What CMMC Level 3 is

• The total number of practices required

• Domain-by-domain control breakdown

• How to meet Level 3 requirements

• What assessors look for

Let’s start with a quick framework overview.

Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) refers to sensitive federal data that, while not classified, requires safeguarding under federal law and agency policies. As cyber threats continue to escalate, the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has prioritized CUI protection across its contractor ecosystem.

For organizations in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), properly handling CUI is not optional—it’s a core requirement under the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Failure to protect CUI can result in lost contracts and increased risk exposure.

In this guide, we’ll explain:

• What is Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) is

• Why it matters to DoD contractors

• How CUI fits into the CMMC framework

• What steps must contractors take to stay compliant

CMMC Certification will soon be a requirement for nearly all Department of Defense (DoD) contractors. For many organizations, achieving compliance may feel overwhelming. A practical way to streamline the process is through control mapping aligning existing security controls from other frameworks you already follow with CMMC requirements.

CMMC certification cost is one of the biggest concerns for Department of Defense (DoD) contractors today. Whether you’re a prime contractor or subcontractor, certification is now required to bid on and maintain DoD contracts.

Unlike previous self-attestation models, contractors must now undergo a third-party CMMC assessment to verify compliance. The total cost of CMMC certification depends on several factors, including your required CMMC level, current cybersecurity maturity, remediation needs, and assessment scope.

So, how much should your organization budget for CMMC certification? In this guide, we’ll break down CMMC certification costs by level, explain what drives pricing, and outline how contractors can reduce compliance expenses.

What Is CMMC?

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is the cybersecurity framework required for companies that handle Federal Contract Information (FCI) or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) within the Department of Defense (DoD) supply chain. Any contractor or subcontractor bidding on DoD contracts must meet the applicable CMMC requirements.

CMMC was developed to strengthen cybersecurity across more than 300,000 organizations in the defense industrial base. Prior to CMMC, contractors relied largely on self-attestation to confirm compliance with security standards such as NIST SP 800-171. Under the updated CMMC model, independent third-party assessments are required for many contractors to verify compliance.

The framework establishes multiple certification levels based on the sensitivity of the information handled and the cybersecurity maturity of the organization. The higher the required level, the more extensive the security controls, documentation, and assessment requirements,  which directly impacts overall CMMC certification cost.

Understanding how CMMC works is critical before estimating certification expenses, since required level, scope, and remediation needs all influence total cost.

What Are the CMMC Levels?

Under CMMC 2.0, the framework is structured into three certification levels, each based on the sensitivity of information handled and the cybersecurity maturity required. The level your organization must achieve directly impacts your overall CMMC certification cost, since higher levels require more controls, documentation, and assessment rigor.

Each level builds upon the previous one.

Level 1 – Foundational

Level 1 applies to contractors that handle Federal Contract Information (FCI). Organizations must implement basic cybersecurity practices such as:

• Access control measures
• Regular password updates
• Antivirus and endpoint protection
• Basic data safeguarding policies
  

At this level, companies typically perform an annual self-assessment. Because requirements are limited, Level 1 generally involves the lowest CMMC certification cost.

Level 2 – Advanced

Level 2 applies to organizations that process or store Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). This level aligns with NIST SP 800-171 and requires implementation of 110 security controls.

Requirements include:

• Documented security policies and procedures
• Risk assessments
• Incident response planning
• System security plans (SSPs)
• Plan of Action & Milestones (POA&M)
  

Most Level 2 contractors must undergo a third-party assessment (C3PAO) every three years. Because of expanded documentation and audit requirements, Level 2 significantly increases total CMMC certification cost.

Level 3 – Expert

Level 3 is designed for contractors supporting the most sensitive DoD programs. In addition to Level 2 requirements, organizations must implement enhanced security controls aligned with federal cybersecurity standards.

Level 3 includes:

• Advanced threat detection and response
• Ongoing security monitoring
• Additional federal security controls beyond NIST 800-171
  

Assessments are conducted by government-led teams. Due to the complexity, Level 3 carries the highest CMMC certification cost.

Key Points About CMMC Levels

• Levels build on each other, you must fully meet lower-level requirements before advancing.
• Certification level determines which DoD contracts you can bid on.
• Higher levels require more documentation, controls, and audit oversight.
• Your required level is one of the biggest factors influencing CMMC certification cost. 

What Will CMMC Certification Cost?

The total CMMC certification cost depends on your required certification level, current cybersecurity maturity, scope of systems handling FCI or CUI, and whether remediation is needed before assessment.

While exact pricing varies, organizations can generally expect costs in three primary categories:

1. Assessment Costs

Assessment fees depend on certification level and assessment type:

• Level 1 (Self-Assessment) – Minimal direct audit cost, but internal compliance preparation expenses still apply.
• Level 2 (Third-Party Assessment – C3PAO) – Typically ranges from $30,000 to $60,000+, depending on scope and complexity.
• Level 3 (Government-Led Assessment) – Costs vary significantly due to additional federal oversight and enhanced security requirements.
  

Assessment scope, number of users, number of locations, and network complexity all impact final pricing.

2. Remediation & Implementation Costs

For many contractors, remediation represents the largest expense. Costs may include:

• Implementing NIST SP 800-171 controls
• Purchasing security tools (MFA, SIEM, endpoint detection)
• Updating policies and documentation
• Conducting risk assessments
• Developing a System Security Plan (SSP) and POA&M
  

Organizations with mature cybersecurity programs will generally face lower remediation costs than those starting from scratch

3. Ongoing Compliance & Recertification Costs

CMMC certification is not a one-time expense. Contractors must maintain compliance continuously.

• Level 1 requires annual self-assessments.
• Level 2 requires reassessment every three years.
• Level 3 involves additional federal review requirements.
  

Ongoing monitoring, policy updates, and security improvements contribute to long-term CMMC compliance costs.

Are CMMC Certification Costs Reimbursable?

In many cases, CMMC-related expenses are considered allowable costs under DoD contracts. Assessment and certain remediation expenses may be recoverable, depending on contract structure. However, contractors are still responsible for upfront implementation investments.

The Cost of Ignoring CMMC Certification

While many contractors focus on CMMC certification cost, the financial risk of non-compliance can be significantly higher.

CMMC requirements incorporate NIST SP 800-171 controls and Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation (DFARS) cybersecurity clauses. Failure to meet these standards can expose contractors to serious financial, legal, and operational consequences.

Potential Consequences of CMMC Non-Compliance

• Contract termination if Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) is compromised and compliance requirements were not met
• Loss of eligibility for future DoD contracts
• Withholding or loss of federal funding
• Civil penalties or False Claims Act liability
• Criminal investigations in cases of severe negligence or misrepresentation
• Mandatory government reviews or audits
  

Beyond regulatory penalties, organizations may also face:

• Reputational damage within the defense industrial base
• Increased scrutiny from prime contractors
• Loss of competitive positioning in contract bids

For many organizations, the long-term financial impact of a breach or compliance failure can exceed the upfront investment required for CMMC certification.

In short, while CMMC certification cost requires planning and budgeting, the cost of ignoring certification can jeopardize revenue, contracts, and long-term business viability.

Getting Ahead of CMMC Certification Costs

Organizations can reduce overall CMMC certification cost by taking proactive steps before a formal assessment begins. Early preparation not only minimizes audit findings but also reduces remediation expenses and assessment delays.

Here are practical steps contractors can take:

1. Determine Your Required CMMC Level

Your required certification level determines the scope of controls, documentation, and assessment type. Understanding whether your organization must meet Level 1, Level 2, or Level 3 requirements allows you to align resources efficiently and avoid over- or under-investing in compliance efforts.

2. Conduct a Gap Assessment

Before engaging a third-party assessor, perform an internal or consultant-led gap analysis against applicable CMMC requirements. Identifying weaknesses early helps prevent costly surprises during a formal assessment.

3. Budget for Total Certification Costs

Your CMMC certification cost should account for:

• Assessment fees
• Remediation and technology upgrades
• Policy development and documentation
• Employee training
• Ongoing monitoring and compliance maintenance
  

Building a realistic compliance budget reduces financial strain and improves project planning.

4. Align with NIST SP 800-171 Requirements

For Level 2 and above, aligning systems and processes with NIST SP 800-171 controls is critical. Implementing controls methodically — rather than reactively — helps control remediation costs and accelerates certification readiness.

5. Develop and Maintain Required Documentation

A strong System Security Plan (SSP) and Plan of Action & Milestones (POA&M) demonstrate structured compliance management. Clear documentation reduces audit friction and helps maintain long-term certification status.

6. Plan for Ongoing Compliance

CMMC is not a one-time project. Continuous monitoring, policy updates, and periodic reassessments are necessary to maintain certification and control long-term compliance costs.

Organizations that invest early in cybersecurity maturity often experience significantly lower CMMC certification costs than those attempting last-minute compliance.

Conclusion

For Department of Defense contractors, CMMC certification is no longer optional.  it is a prerequisite for bidding on and maintaining federal contracts. The framework is designed to strengthen cybersecurity across the defense industrial base and reduce the financial and operational impact of compromised Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).

While many organizations focus on CMMC certification cost, the greater financial risk often lies in non-compliance. Contract termination, loss of eligibility for future bids, regulatory penalties, and reputational damage can significantly exceed the upfront investment required to achieve certification.

The total CMMC certification cost ultimately depends on your required level, existing cybersecurity maturity, and scope of systems handling sensitive data. Contractors that prepare early, align with NIST requirements, and address gaps proactively are typically able to control both remediation expenses and long-term compliance costs.

Working with experienced CMMC advisors can streamline preparation, reduce audit friction, and help ensure a smoother certification process. RSI Security  compliance specialists support contractors through readiness assessments, remediation planning, and third-party audit preparation,  helping organizations achieve certification efficiently and cost-effectively.

Download Our CMMC Checklist

 

If your business works with the Department of Defense (DoD) or operates within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), you’ve likely heard about CMMC certification. But understanding how to navigate CMMC 2.0—especially Level 2 assessments—requires working with a special kind of partner: a C3PAO. So, what exactly is a C3PAO, and why does it matter for your compliance journey? This blog breaks down the definition, responsibilities, and strategic value of a C3PAO—and explains how to choose the right one for your organization.

CMMC Level 2 requirements are part of the U.S. Department of Defense’s Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) framework and apply to contractors that handle Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). This guide provides a clear, practical overview of what CMMC Level 2 requires, who it applies to, and how organizations can prepare for compliance.

As the second installment in our CMMC series, this article focuses specifically on Level 2 requirements. If you’re looking for information on other maturity levels, explore our detailed guides on CMMC Levels 1, 3, 4, and 5.

DoD contractors and vendors must constantly stay one step ahead in the ever-changing compliance landscape. The DoD, along with other U.S. federal agencies, regularly introduces new frameworks and requirements to protect sensitive government and military information.

For vendors and contractors looking to work with the DoD or U.S. military, compliance isn’t optional,  it’s a critical business necessity. Navigating these requirements can be complex, but understanding them is key to maintaining eligibility and operational security.

We recently spoke with Katherine Arrington, the DoD’s Chief Information Security Officer (CISO) for Acquisition and Sustainment (A&S), for insights on DoD contractor compliance. Katherine also serves as a former House Representative of South Carolina’s 94th Congressional District and previously held the position of DoD-wide CISO.

In our conversation, she shared her perspective on new regulatory frameworks like the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) the evolving compliance landscape, and practical steps DoD contractors can take to prepare themselves.

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Prepare for Certification With Clarity, Not Guesswork

CMMC 2.0 is reshaping how defense contractors protect sensitive data, and how they demonstrate compliance. For organizations across the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), the pressure to meet evolving requirements is increasing, especially as formal third-party assessments approach. A CMMC self-assessment removes much of the uncertainty from the process. Instead of reacting at the last minute, organizations can proactively evaluate their security posture, understand where they stand against CMMC requirements, and plan remediation with confidence.

In this guide, we explain how CMMC self-assessments fit into the broader certification process, what they can and cannot accomplish, and how to use them to uncover compliance gaps and accelerate readiness, without confusion or wasted effort.