CAMS Certification

What’s new in the CAMS program?

The enhanced CAMS Certification builds on its global legacy with a modernized, modular format and greater flexibility. Key updates include:

• Elective courses tailored to specific industries and jurisdictions
• A modular learning structure with four self-paced courses combining core AML knowledge with practical, hands-on application
• Updated content reflecting the latest in AML-CFT risks and typologies, technology, and global best practices
• Modernized delivery for a more engaging and accessible learning experience

While the format has evolved, CAMS remains the globally respected gold standard in AML certification.

Which languages is the CAMS program offered in?

The CAMS program is currently available in the following languages:

• Arabic
• Chinese – simplified
• Chinese – traditional
• English
• French
• German
• Japanese
• Korean
• Portuguese (Brazilian)
• Russian
• Spanish

The enhanced CAMS program is currently available in English only. More language options will be added throughout 2026. Until then, you can still access the existing CAMS program in all currently supported languages – both versions lead to the same globally recognized certification.

Am I eligible to take the CAMS Exam?

The full list of requirements can be found in the CAMS Candidate Handbook. However, at minimum, you will need to demonstrate you have 40 eligibility credits and be an ACAMS member.

Do CAMS courses count toward eligibility?

Yes. The CAMS program components and the Virtual Classroom Series contribute toward the 40-credit eligibility requirement. Specifically:

• The four core certificates provide a total of 18 ACAMS credits.
• Each additional elective course completed earns 1 credit.
• Participation in a Virtual Classroom Series provides 12 credits.

Do I earn any credits for being an ACAMS member?

We certify the achievements of our members. Being a member is a requirement for the CAMS Certification, but it doesn’t count toward your 40-eligibility credit total.

Do you accept training credits from other organizations?

Yes, we do! Contact us for specifics.

Am I eligible to take the CAMS exam if I don’t hold a higher education degree?

Absolutely. There are a number of ways to accrue eligibility credits. You can even earn eligibility credits through the CAMS Virtual Classroom or CAMS Live Prep courses. Contact us to talk through your specific circumstances.

Does the higher education degree need to be financial crime related in order to qualify for eligibility credits?

Not at all. As long as your degree is issued by an accredited college or university, it can be in any field of study.

Is internship experience eligible for professional credits toward the 40-eligibility credit requirement?

Yes - if your internship is in the field of AFC.

How do I apply?

Start by selecting and purchasing your CAMS certification package – this includes your study materials, elective courses, and exam access. Once you’ve completed your learning path, submit your application online. You’ll need to meet ACAMS’ 40-credit eligibility requirement, which is based on your education, experience, certifications, and training. If you’re still earning credits, you can save your progress and return to the application later. You may also request special accommodations during the process.

After your application is approved (typically within 5 business days), you’ll receive an email with instructions to schedule your exam.

Do I need to login to apply?

Yes. You’ll need an ACAMS account to access the application form. If you already have one, log in using your registered email and password. If you’re new to ACAMS, create a free account here. Note: This account is separate from ACAMS membership, which is required to apply for certification.

Do I pay and apply at the same time, or do I do these separately?

You’ll purchase your CAMS certification package first, which includes your learning materials and exam access. At this point, you can submit your application before or after completing your learning path. ACAMS will then verify your eligibility and approve your application before you can schedule the exam.

What documents do I need to provide as evidence of my educational qualifications?

Please provide us with official transcripts or a copy of your diploma.

Can I submit a digital version of my supporting documents?

Absolutely. You will upload supporting documents as part of the online CAMS application process.

Can I check the status of my CAMS application after I’ve submitted it?

Yes! Log in to see how your application is progressing.

Is the CAMS application transferable?

No – every individual who applies to become a Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist is assessed against the eligibility criteria. So, everyone must submit their own application. However, the exam fee may be transferable to someone else if you no longer wish to sit for CAMS. Please contact us to discuss this.

How is the CAMS exam structured?

The CAMS exam consists of 120 multiple-choice questions covering both theoretical knowledge and practical scenario-based problems. It is a timed, computer-based test lasting 3.5 hours, designed to evaluate your understanding and application of anti-financial crime principles.

How do I schedule the CAMS exam?

You must purchase the CAMS Certification package and then apply for the CAMS exam. Once your application is approved, you’ll be emailed with instructions on how to schedule your exam at your nearest Pearson VUE testing center.

Where are the Pearson VUE testing centers located?

Find a testing center near you.

Is it possible to take the exam during a conference?

It’s not possible to take the exam on-site at an ACAMS Conference. The CAMS exam is only available at Pearson VUE testing centers – they offer a global network of 5,000+ locations. Find a testing center near you.

How long do I have to take the CAMS exam?

You have six months from the day your application is approved. Once you receive the email with the authorization to test, you can schedule your test by logging on to the Pearson VUE exam scheduling system directly from the email. You can also go to the ACAMS website and access the Pearson VUE exam scheduling platform from your user account.

What if I need an extension to take the exam?

If you require more time to schedule or take your exam, you can request an exam extension for a fee of US$100.00. Be sure to submit your request before your exam eligibility expires.

What happens if I fail the exam?

If you don’t pass the exam on your first attempt, you can retake it by paying a retake fee of US$299.00. You can schedule the retake through your ACAMS account.

How do I access the CAMS study materials?

CAMS Certification study materials are accessible via our learning management system (LMS). When you purchase the CAMS package, you will receive a confirmation email with information and links to the online CAMS study materials.

Is the study guide included in all CAMS packages?

Yes! In each CAMS package you will receive the study guide and access to the exam, among other study materials. If you’d like a more structured learning experience, you can choose to upgrade to a Virtual Classroom Package or enroll in a CAMS Live Prep course. No matter how you choose to prepare, everyone studies from exactly the same study guide.

Can I view the study guide on a Kindle?

Yes, the CAMS study guide PDF is viewable on most e-readers.

Can I access the study materials after the course is completed?

You may download the study guide, which is available in PDF format, to refer to after you have completed the CAMS Certification. Please note that once you have completed the CAMS exam, the study materials will no longer be available for you to access via the LMS.

What is the CAMS Exam Simulator?

The CAMS Exam Simulator is an enhanced practice tool designed to help you prepare for the certification exam. It offers over 1,000 practice questions and includes performance tracking features so you can monitor your progress and identify areas for improvement. This platform simulates the exam environment, helping you build confidence before taking the actual test.

Is the content in the exam simulator the same as the real exam?

The exam simulator includes questions similar in style and difficulty to those on the ACAMS certification exam but does not contain actual exam questions. It is intended to give representative practice experience, not the exact exam content.

Where can I access the exam simulator?

The exam simulator is available through the ACAMS learning management system (LMS) once you register for the CAMS program.

Note that the simulator is only available in English. Other languages include a 100-question practice exam, accessible within the learning path.

All examinations and exam materials are the copyright of ACAMS and may not be published, shared, reproduced, or otherwise distributed or disseminated without the express written consent of ACAMS.  Please carefully read our copyright policy in the candidate handbook to learn more.

For Singapore citizens or permanent residents, the CAMS + Singapore AML Regime Exam package is eligible for funding under the IBF Standards Training Scheme (IBF-STS). This requires taking 2 proctored exams, CAMS and the Singapore AML Regime Exam. Visit IBF-STS & IBF Level 2 Certification Requirement to find out more.