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What Is the ServiceNow Certification Maintenance Program?

The Certification Maintenance Program (CMP) is ServiceNow’s structured approach to keeping certified professionals aligned with the platform’s continuous evolution.

The Now Platform receives two major releases every year, introducing new features, enhancements, and changes. CMP ensures that certified individuals remain up to date without having to redo full certification exams again and again.

CMP Fee Overview

  • 200 Learning Credits (LC) or $100 USD

  • Due by: April 16, 2026

  • Applicable to: Anyone certified for one year or longer

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Why CMP Is Important for Your Career

ServiceNow certifications are a signal of current expertise, not historical knowledge.

By maintaining CMP:

  • You stay updated with the latest platform capabilities

  • You maintain credibility as a ServiceNow professional

  • You avoid certification expiration and re-certification effort

CMP is not just an administrative step—it protects the long-term value of your certification.

 

Key Benefits of Paying the CMP Fee

1. No Need to Retake Mainline Exams

Once CMP is paid:

  • You do not need to repeat full training

  • You do not need to retake mainline certification exams

Instead, ServiceNow uses a smarter approach through delta exams.

2. Access to Delta Exams

Delta exams:

  • Focus only on what’s new in the latest release

  • Are much shorter and simpler than full exams

  • Ensure you understand platform changes that matter

3. Saves Time and Money

Compared to full re-certification:

  • CMP is faster

  • CMP is more cost-effective

  • CMP reduces exam pressure

 

Are ServiceNow Delta Exams Proctored?

This is one of the most common concerns.

No — ServiceNow delta exams are not proctored.

What This Means for You

  • No webcam or camera monitoring

  • No live invigilator

  • You can take the exam from your own environment

  • Designed to validate awareness, not to create stress

Delta exams are learning-focused and practical, reflecting how professionals actually work with ServiceNow in real-world projects.

 

How to Prepare for Delta Exams

Preparation is straightforward if you follow the right resources:

  • Review official release notes

  • Complete delta learning content in ServiceNow University

  • Refer to the “2026 Certification Maintenance” email dated January 19, 2026 for instructions

If you understand the platform changes, clearing the delta exam should not be difficult.

 

Linking Your ServiceNow University Account to Your Employer

If you work for a ServiceNow Partner or Customer organization, you may be eligible for discounts or learning credit coverage.

Linking your ServiceNow University account to your employer:

  • Allows use of organizational learning credits

  • May eliminate out-of-pocket payment

  • Ensures compliance with partner requirements

This is a step many professionals overlook, but it can save both time and money.

 

How to Pay the CMP Fee

ServiceNow University supports two payment options:

Credit Card

  • Quick and direct payment

  • Fees are non-refundable once submitted

Learning Credits

  • Commonly used by partners and customers

  • Requires sufficient LC balance

  • Often managed by the organization

Once payment is completed, delta exams become accessible.

 

What Happens If You Miss the Deadline?

must be done by April 16, 2026.

If not:

  • Your certification will expire

  • Re-certification may require additional training and Proctored exams

 

Final Thoughts

The ServiceNow Certification Maintenance Program is not just about renewal—it is about staying relevant in a fast-evolving platform.

CMP:

  • Keeps your knowledge current

  • Simplifies certification upkeep

  • Supports long-term career growth in the ServiceNow ecosystem

If you are serious about your ServiceNow journey, CMP should be treated as a professional investment, not an obligation.