1. What is the CAMS certification?
CAMS (Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist) is the global gold standard certification in AML/CFT compliance, recognized by regulators, banks, and financial institutions worldwide.
2. Who offers the CAMS certification?
The certification is issued by ACAMS (Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists).
3. What are the eligibility requirements to sit for the CAMS exam?
You need 40 credits earned through education, work experience, and training, plus an active ACAMS membership. CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
4. How do I earn eligibility credits?
Credits come from education (10–40), AML-related work experience (10 per year), and AML training (1 per hour). CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
5. Do I need ACAMS membership to take the exam?
Yes. ACAMS membership is mandatory to apply, take, and maintain the certification. CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
6. How much does the CAMS exam cost?
Standard package:
- Private sector: $2,095
- Public sector: $1,595
(With Virtual Classroom package, fees are slightly higher.) CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
7. How many questions are in the CAMS exam?
120 questions (multiple choice & multiple selection).
You must score 75 or higher to pass. CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
8. How much time is allowed for the exam?
You get 3.5 hours to complete the exam. CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
9. What topics are covered in the CAMS exam?
There are four domains:
- Financial Crime Risks (30%)
- Global Frameworks & Regulations (20%)
- AFC Compliance Programs (30%)
- Tools & Technologies (20%) CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
10. Is there any penalty for guessing on the exam?
No. There is no negative marking, so never leave a question blank. CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
11. How do I apply for the exam?
You apply online by purchasing a CAMS package, completing your study path, and submitting the application for approval.
12. Can I take the CAMS exam online?
Yes. ACAMS offers online proctored exams in many locations. CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
13. Where can I take the exam in person?
Through Pearson VUE test centers worldwide.
14. What identification do I need on exam day?
Two valid, original government-issued IDs:
- Primary ID with photo + signature
- Secondary ID with at least name + signature/photo
Names must match exactly. CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
15. What items are prohibited during the exam?
Phones, watches, wallets, purses, bags, jackets, notes, and all electronic devices are not allowed in the testing room. CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
16. When will I get my exam results?
Immediately after finishing — you’ll see pass or fail on screen. CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
17. Can ACAMS share my results with my employer?
Only if your exam was sponsored by your employer AND you did not opt out. CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
18. What happens if I fail the exam?
You may retake after:
- 30 days (first retake)
- 60 days (second retake)
- 90 days (third or more)
Retake fee: $299 (private) / $199 (public). CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
19. How many times can I retake the exam?
Unlimited, but with required waiting periods.
20. Can I reschedule or cancel my exam?
Yes.
- Free reschedule/cancel: ≥72 hours before exam
- 24–72 hours before: $100 fee
- <24 hours/no-show: must purchase new authorization ($299/$199)
CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
21. What happens if I am late to the exam?
You may be denied entry and will lose your exam fee. CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
22. Is cheating strictly monitored?
Yes — video cameras, audio monitoring, and proctors are used. Scores can be invalidated if irregularities are found. CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
23. What happens if I talk about exam questions after the test?
You may face legal action, score cancellation, or certification revocation. Exam content is strictly confidential. CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
24. What study materials come with the CAMS package?
- CAMS Study Guide
- Flashcards
- Interactive materials
- Practice exams (simulation tool)
- Two elective courses (not part of exam blueprint)
CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
25. Is attending Virtual Classroom mandatory?
No, but it is highly recommended for structured exam preparation.
26. How long is the CAMS certification valid?
Three years. After that, recertification is required. CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
27. What are the recertification requirements?
- Active ACAMS membership
- Earn 60 credits in 3 years (including 12 ACAMS credits)
- Pay recertification fee ($200–$300)
CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
28. Can I recertify by retaking the exam?
Yes — by request and payment ($299), before your recertification deadline. CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
29. What happens if I don’t recertify on time?
Your CAMS certification will be revoked, and you must retake the full exam to regain it. CANDIDATE HANDBOOK
30. Where can i can find learning materials?
ACAMS provides the study guide upon enrollment and you can access 800+ flashcards, 70+ mini mock tests chapter and topic wise, 10 full-length mock tests on CAMS Prep Study Lounge.
