Eligibility

Do you need CMMC certification for all DoD contracts?

Short Answer

Do you need CMMC certification for all DoD contracts? 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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Read Full Guide: CMMC Certification: Roadmap to Compliance