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Case Manager Certification Checklist
The steps from eligibility to renewal for the CCM, ACM and CMGT-BC case management credentials, in a typical order.
A real, editable checklist below — tick, tap a line to rewrite, drag to reorder.
Tick the circles, tap any line to change it, drag the dots to reorder.
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Mind the dates first. ANCC's nursing case management certification takes new applications only through December 31, 2026, and testing runs through December 31, 2027. CharityTracker describes a predictable sequence: degree, supervised experience, application, exam, renewal. This list follows that sequence for becoming a certified case manager, though details differ by credential; ACMA, for example, accepts an RN license or a social work degree or license. It assumes a US path and covers the CCM, ACM and CMGT-BC credentials. It leaves out state licensing and employer rules, so check those with your employer or state board.
Why these items are on the list
- Pick your credential. CCM is cross-disciplinary, ACM is hospital-based, CMGT-BC is RN-only. Your background decides which fits.
- Confirm your degree qualifies. CharityTracker says most pathways want a bachelor's in nursing, social work or a related human services field.
- Check your RN or LCSW license. RNs need an active, unrestricted license; ACMA accepts a social work degree or license, and CharityTracker lists an active LCSW.
- Log supervised experience. CharityTracker estimates 12 to 24 months full-time; ACM requires 2,080 supervised paid hours within a health delivery system.
- Count clinical and CE hours. CMGT-BC: minimum 2,000 clinical practice hours and 30 CE hours, both in nursing case management, in the last 3 years.
- Confirm your supervision route. CCM per CharityTracker: 12 months if supervised by a CCM certified at least a year, 24 without; 12 if supervising.
- Budget for fees. CharityTracker lists CCM at $235 application plus $195 exam. ANCC initial certification is $395, or $295 for ANA members.
- Collect education and licensure documents. Have proof of education, licensure and experience ready; ANCC wants an electronic RN license copy for upload.
- Submit the application. New CMGT-BC applications close December 31, 2026, as the program moves to renewal only.
- Choose your testing window. ANCC's CMGT-BC: apply by December 31, 2026; test in a 120-day window at a time and location you choose.
- Schedule the exam. ANCC candidates book through Prometric using their certification number.
- Study with official aids. ANCC posts a test content outline, a reference list and sample questions.
- Sit the exam. CharityTracker lists the CCM exam at 180 questions over three hours; the ANCC exam is 150 questions in three hours.
- Track continuing education from day one. CharityTracker lists renewal at 80 hours for CCM and 40 for ACM.
- Store professional development records. Proof must be in your ANCC account before you start an online renewal.
- Calendar your renewal date. CharityTracker gives cycles of 4 to 5 years; ANCC accepts renewal up to a year before expiry.
- Check employer and state rules. Government and nonprofit roles may add licensure or background checks beyond national certification.
Tick each step off as the paperwork clears, and the phone keeps the open items in view. It is easy to share with a supervisor who is signing off your hours.
When to use it
Use it when you are weighing a case management credential or about to file, ideally before ANCC's December 31, 2026 application deadline.