Eligibility

Do you need CMMC certification for all DoD contracts?

Quick Answer: No, CMMC is only required for contracts involving Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). Many DoD contracts don't handle CUI and won't require CMMC.

As of January 2026DoD CMMC

Detailed Answer

CMMC requirements: **When CMMC Is Required:** - Contracts involving CUI (Controlled Unclassified Information) - Will be specified in solicitation - Phased implementation through 2028 **When CMMC Is NOT Required:** - Commercial item contracts (typically) - Contracts with only public information - Below certain dollar thresholds - Non-DoD federal contracts **CMMC Levels:** - Level 1: Basic safeguarding (17 practices) - Level 2: CUI protection (110 practices) - Level 3: Advanced (subset of NIST 800-172) **Implementation Timeline:** - Phased rollout starting 2025 - Not all contracts immediately - Check solicitation requirements - Plan ahead for certification

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This answer is part of our comprehensive guide on this topic.

Read Full Guide: CMMC Certification: Roadmap to Compliance