Frequently Asked Questions

What does a CHMM do?
A CHMM handles, manages, or advises others on hazardous materials or situations associated with or potentially including such items. A CHMM may perform management and/or compliance duties for a corporation, business, government, or some other organization in this capacity, or work in a related field associated with hazardous materials such as environmental protection, safety, hazmat transportation, or security. Any time hazardous materials are involved, a CHMM professional can advise on proper handling and management for ensuring safety and compliance.
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How many CHMMs are there?
Over 14,000 have been certified (as of January 1, 2007), and about 8,500 remain currently active.
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What professional/ethical standards are CHMMs bound by?
Every CHMM is bound by the CHMM Code of Ethics. Certification is granted only after the Institute receives a personally signed copy of the code from the candidate. Suspected violations of the Code are investigated by the Institute Board of Ethics.
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Why should I consider certification?
The CHMM certification identifies individuals with the professional qualifications and expertise needed to handle, manage, and consult on matters relating to hazardous materials. The CHMM credential serves as an independent validation of your proficiency in this interdisciplinary field.

Being certified can advance your career, improve your employment status, and improve your chances of landing a better job. Employers understand that mishandling or mismanagement of hazardous materials can quickly become a critical element in the success or failure of a business. They depend on proven credentials like the CHMM to help identify those who are best qualified for the job.
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I am already a PE/RPG/CSP/CIH, etc. Why would I want to add CHMM to my credentials?
The CHMM is a multi-disciplinary credential. Management of hazardous materials intersects and cuts across the fields of engineering, geology, safety and industrial hygiene. It also encompasses facets of public health, transportation, homeland security, and other fields as well. The CHMM does not attempt to replace these other credentials. Rather, adding the CHMM to your list of accomplishments shows that you have the knowledge and skills to recognize and resolve hazardous materials issues wherever they occur.
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How and by whom is the CHMM Program administered?
The CHMM Program is administered by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM) located in Rockville, Maryland. Applications are completed by CHMM candidates and forwarded to the Institute Executive Office along with the necessary documentation. The Institute reviews the application materials for eligibility and completeness. Those meeting the eligibility requirements (experience and academic) are then scheduled to sit for the CHMM examination. A CHMM certificate is issued to those who pass, after all administrative requirements have been met. The Institute's Executive Office is the office of record for all active CHMMs' signature documents, eligibility information, examination results, and official correspondence, as well as contact and fiscal data.
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Is the CHMM Program accredited?
Yes. The CHMM Program is accredited by the Council of Engineering and Scientific Specialty Boards (CESB) located in Annapolis, Maryland. CESB provides accreditation for certification programs in the United States in the areas of engineering and related scientific specialties.
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What companies or government agencies recognize the CHMM credential?
Federal and state governments and many private businesses across the country recognize the value of the CHMM certification and some require it in the performance of certain types of work. Included are: New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection (Cleanup Star Program); State of Connecticut (Aquifer Protection Program); State of Indiana (Soil Remediation and Underground Storage Tank (UST) Closure Projects); State of Kentucky (Department of Environmental Protection); U.S. Air Force; U.S. Environmental Protection Agency; Army Corps of Engineers; U.S. National Park Service; FDIC; General Motors; Delphi; DaimlerChrysler; ENSR; Teris; PSE&G; 3E; and MECx. In addition, the Veterans Administration recognizes the CHMM credential and will reimburse veterans and their eligible dependents for the cost of the CHMM exam.
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Are there different levels of certification?
The CHMM credential was previously awarded at either the Senior or the Master level, depending upon the amount of experience achieved. However, this distinction has been discontinued, as of March 2008.
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What is a Hazardous Materials Manager-in-Training (HMMT)?
The Hazardous Materials Manager-in-Training is not a certified level. It is a trainee designation that requires a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university in hazardous materials management or a related discipline. Click here for more information.
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Do I have to start at the lowest level?
No. If you have the requisite amount of experience, you should apply for the CHMM credential, not the HMMT designation.
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How much does it cost to become certified?
The current cost of the CHMM certification process is $350. This includes a $100 nonrefundable application fee and a $250 examination fee. After passing the exam, the first year's certification fee ($70) is also charged before certification can be made official. Incidental expenses may include the cost of ordering an original transcript and document mailing. Optional expenses include: purchase of the book Managing Hazardous Materials and/or other study guide(s), and attending an overview course.
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When will there be an exam near me?
All IHMM examinations will be offered via computer-based testing (CBT) at more than 200 KRYTERION HOST© locations in the United States and Canada. Once your application is approved, you will receive information on how to register and select the location of your choice. 
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How far in advance should I apply?
If you know when you want to take the exam, please apply six weeks in advance of the desired date. You will not be able to register until your application has been approved, so the sooner you apply, the more likely you are to be able to book the date you want.

If you are planning to take an overview course and want to sit for the exam soon afterward, apply to IHMM six weeks before the start of the course.
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Can I take the CHMM exam as a walk-in?
No. Your application must be reviewed to determine eligibility prior to taking the exam. If you have not received a notice of your eligibility and a registration code from IHMM, you will not be able to take the exam.
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I already registered for the overview course. Doesn't that mean I'm also registered for the exam?
No. The overview course is offered as a training option separate from the CHMM examination. You must apply separately to IHMM to take the CHMM examination.
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How can I find out where overview courses are being given?
Check the schedule on the IHMM web site for current offerings that have been provided to us. There may also be other courses of which we are not aware.
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There is no overview course being given near me. Are there other options?
Other course options may be available from the Academy of Certified Hazardous Materials Managers (ACHMM) at www.achmm.org or 800-473-0137. There are also self-study programs available, including a computerized program from DataChem Software (www.certistep.com), and a self-study guide based on our Managing Hazardous Materials textbook from Government Institutes. IHMM does not authorize, accredit, oversee, or endorse any specific course.
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I don't need/want to take a course. Can I still take the exam?
Yes. The CHMM examination is administered independently of any training. Taking a course is optional.
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Does my degree in _______ qualify?
Maybe. Eligibility requirements include having a baccalaureate degree in hazardous materials management or a related field. Related fields include (but are not limited to): biology, chemistry, geology, engineering, environmental science, management, physics, safety, and industrial hygiene. Contact the IHMM Office if you wish to discuss your specific background.
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Can I send you a photocopy of my official transcript?
No. We require an official transcript with a registrar's original stamp or seal (not a photocopy) showing your achievement of a baccalaureate degree or higher from an accredited college or university. It must be on file at the IHMM Executive Office before you can register for the CHMM examination.
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I attended more than one college/I have more than one degree; do you need all the transcripts?
No. We need an official transcript from the accredited college or university in the United States which conferred your degree at the baccalaureate level (or higher).
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Does a degree from a foreign college or university qualify?
Degrees acquired through foreign colleges or universities are acceptable if they are documented as equivalent to a BS/BA degree issued in the United States. An equivalency report can be obtained from any NACES-approved organization (such as World Educational Services, Educational Credential Evaluators, Foreign Academic Credential Service, and others).

If the applicant holds an additional degree which will meet the requirements from an accredited U.S. college or university, only the U.S. college transcript needs to be submitted, and a degree equivalency report will not be required.
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Can I take the CHMM exam if I don't have a baccalaureate degree?
No. The baccalaureate degree is a minimum requirement for the CHMM exam.  However, a new credential--the Certified Hazardous Materials Practitioner--is available for non-degreed applicants. Please click here if you would like more information.
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What is "relevant" experience? Does my experience as _______ qualify?
Relevant experience is associated with a work practice that demonstrates the use of knowledge in the field. Experience outside of the field may qualify if it relates or contributes to management of hazardous materials. For example, if one's experience as a cost manager is applied to the management of a hazardous waste disposal site, it may qualify as relevant experience.
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I did an internship in college. Will that count toward my experience requirement?
Maybe. It must have been valid work in a relevant field, and it must NOT have been counted for credit toward your BS/BA degree.
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What should I study for the exam?
Review the CHMM examination specifications table or 'blueprint' (exam content) to determine the areas that may be covered. The book Managing Hazardous Materials covers many, but not all, of the areas of the blueprint. The candidate must also be familiar with relevant U.S. federal laws and regulations. There is no single source of study for the exam, and much must come from experience in the field and maturity of judgment.
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What is the test like? How long is it?
The CHMM examination is a test consisting of 160 multiple-choice questions delivered at a network of over 200 authorized computer testing centers.  It must be completed within three hours.
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Do you have practice questions or tests?
No. IHMM does not issue study or practice questions, but many course providers and web sites offer such information. (See the Resources section of this site.)
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What is the passing score? What percentage of the candidates pass?
The passing score is 64%. About 70% of the candidates taking the exam pass.
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Do I have to pass each section of the test in order to pass the entire exam?
No. Your overall score is used as the basis for determining your pass/fail outcome.
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I heard that some of the questions on the exam don't count - Why not?
This is true. Twenty questions on the exam are potential test questions that are included for analysis purposes. This is standard practice in the field of testing and does not have any effect on the outcome of the exam. Answer all questions.
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Is there any penalty for wrong answers?
No. Your attempt at answering all questions will only improve your chances of obtaining a passing score.
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Can I use a calculator at the exam?
Yes, but only a four-function, nonprogrammable calculator may be used. Calculators into which the user may enter and retrieve information are not allowed.
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When will I find out if I passed? Can I find out over the phone?
Examination results will not be discussed over phone. Candidates will be notified in writing about 3 weeks after the exam.

If your application to take the CHMM examination is denied, or if you are denied certification after passing the examination, you may appeal the decision by submitting new information to the IHMM Executive Director.  Submit your appeal in writing with all relevant documentation to the address on your notice of denial within 60 days of the date on your notice.

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If I fail the test, can I take it again? How many times?
Yes. You must wait at least six months, and may retake the test no more than twice within 18 months after your first attempt. After a third failure, a candidate must wait a full year from the last attempt and submit a new application and full fees before trying again. He or she must also meet all the eligibility requirements then in effect.
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Are fees refundable if, for some reason, I cannot take the exam?
Partially. The application fee is nonrefundable because of the time and effort that goes into processing the application.  If you register for an exam and then cancel before the cancellation deadline, (part of) your fee may be refunded.  If you miss the deadline, or if you simply fail to appear for the exam, your fee will be forfeited.
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When I pass the test, I'm a CHMM, right?
Not yet. Passing the CHMM examination is a key element in becoming a CHMM. However, before your CHMM certificate can be issued, all fees must be paid and your record must be complete (e.g., transcripts, references, signed Code of Ethics, etc.). Certification becomes official upon issuance of your numbered CHMM certificate.
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I obtained a Certificate in Hazardous Materials Management from the University of California, so I am a CHMM, right?
No. "CHMM" is a trademarked designation for "Certified Hazardous Materials Manager." Use of the designation by anyone who has not been certified by the Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM) is a violation of trademark law.

The hazardous materials programs offered by the University of California are similar to mini-degree programs, but they are strictly academic. They issue a certificate of completion, not a certification! The CHMM program combines academics and experience as prerequisites, and requires that you pass the national CHMM examination. That is the only way to become a CHMM.
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Do you have any programs available for students?
Yes. The HMMT Program is a trainee designation for recently graduated students with a baccalaureate degree who are pursuing careers in hazardous materials management or a related field.  IHMM also supports students doing research in the field of hazardous materials or environmental management through the Research Grant Program.  Funds are awarded annually on the basis of proposals submitted by principal researchers/lead investigators (i.e., the professors supervising the research projects).
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Where can I learn to be a hazardous materials manager?
Many colleges and universities offer degrees in hazardous materials management and/or related fields. Conferences and symposia across the country focus on hazardous materials and related issues. Self-study and specialty courses are available. One can attend professional presentations or engage in face-to-face dialogue with professionals in the field. Some businesses and government offices with engineering, environmental, safety, transportation, and security responsibilities offer entry-level jobs and provide job-related training. Consider volunteer work such as with your local fire department or attend meetings in your region relating to emergency response or disaster planning. Attend a meeting of a local chapter of the Academy of Certified Hazardous Materials Managers (see www.achmm.org).
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I was certified at the Senior level. Can I become a Master level CHMM?
The different levels of CHMM certification were discontinued in March 2008.  There is no longer any distinction between Senior and Master levels of certification.  All CHMMs will receive new certificates (without levels) upon recertification.
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Can I get a new certificate before my recertification date?
Yes.  If you would like a replacement certificate, there is a $10 fee..
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How long is my certification good for?
Your certification is good as long as you are current in the payment of your annual certification maintenance fees, abide by the CHMM Code of Ethics, and successfully recertify every five years. To recertify, you must remain active in the field and stay current on developments in the industry, and submit documentation (or re-take the examination) every five years. Detailed recertification information can be found elsewhere on this web site.
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I have a very old certificate; I lost/damaged my certificate. Can I get a new one?
Yes. You may forward your request for a replacement certificate along with $10 to cover the cost of processing to: IHMM, 11900 Parklawn Drive, Suite 450, Rockville, Maryland 20852, or by email to ihmminfo@ihmm.org. However, if your certificate is expired or does not even have an expiration date, you may be overdue for recertification. Please contact the IHMM Office immediately.
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Why are there different expiration dates on my certificate and ID card?
The expiration date on your certificate is keyed to your recertification cycle. Your certification must be renewed through recertification every five years. Failure to recertify prior to the expiration date on your certificate will result in your credential being revoked.

The expiration date on your ID card is the date through which your annual certification maintenance fees are paid up. A fee must be submitted annually to the Institute to cover the cost of maintaining your certification. Billing notices are sent out in October of each year with reminder notices going out in March of the following year. Being in arrears on your fee payments is also grounds for revocation of your credential.
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What does it mean if my expiration date has passed?
If the expiration date on your most recent certificate has passed, it means that your certification has expired and your CHMM credential is no longer valid for use. You may not refer to or market yourself as a CHMM. If the expiration date on your ID card has passed, you are no longer in financial good standing with the Institute, your voting privileges are suspended, and you face possible revocation of your credential.
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If I give up my certification or it lapses, can I get it back?
Your certification cannot be reinstated after you have given it up or let it lapse (either voluntarily or involuntarily). You must start from the beginning by completing a new application, resubmitting necessary documentation, scheduling to take the test, and passing the CHMM examination.
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What does it mean to be "in good standing"?
It means that all of your certification obligations have been satisfied. You are not in arrears of any fee payments and your personal certification record is current and complete (including evidence of recertification every five years and a signed Code of Ethics).
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How can I find out whether I'm in good standing?
You may contact the IHMM Executive Office by email or call us at (301) 984-8969.
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What is the annual fee? What is it used for?
In short, the annual certification maintenance fee defrays the cost of operations necessary to administer the CHMM Program, develop and hold the CHMM examination, maintain your certification records, and promote the credential so that you gain added value from being certified.
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What is the difference between IHMM and ACHMM?
The Institute of Hazardous Materials Management (IHMM) is the certifying body for the CHMM certification. It is responsible for:

1. The CHMM certification process:
   • Defining the profession and the parameters of the CHMM certification
   • Defining types and levels of certifications
   • Establishing qualifications and procedures for evaluating eligibility
   • Developing and maintaining the certification examination
   • Arranging for exam administration and security
   • Awarding the CHMM credential
2. The Recertification process:
   • Establishing standards, requirements, schedules, and procedures for periodic recertification
   • Processing recertification submissions
3. General responsibilities:
   • Establishing professional and ethical standards for both CHMMs and the CHMM Program
   • Fostering initiatives to maintain and enhance the stature of the CHMM credential and its acceptance by government, commerical and private entities.