Failed the PMP Exam? Here’s What a Retake Will Cost You

Failing the PMP exam stings especially knowing that around 40% of candidates don’t pass on their first try. But don’t lose hope. A retake is your chance to regroup, refine your strategy, and earn that Project Management Professional (PMP) certification.

The key? Understanding the PMP exam retake cost, navigating PMI’s policies, and preparing smarter to avoid further setbacks. In this guide, we’ll break down the exact costs of retaking the PMP exam, explore whether PMI membership saves you money, uncover hidden expenses, and share proven tips to pass your next attempt.

Ready to get back on track? Let’s dive in and make your retake a success.

PMP Exam Retake Fees in 2025

The cost of retaking the PMP exam depends on your PMI membership status. Here’s the breakdown for 2025:

• PMI Members: $275 per retake attempt.
• Non-Members: $375 per retake attempt.

Compare this to the initial exam fees: $405 for members and $555–$675 for non-members, depending on your region. The retake fee is significantly lower, but it still adds up if you need multiple attempts. PMI allows up to three attempts within your one-year eligibility period, so budgeting for potential retakes is crucial.

Pro Tip: If you’re planning a retake, consider PMI membership to slash costs. We’ll explore this next.

Is PMI Membership Worth It for Retakes?

PMI membership isn’t mandatory, but it can save you serious cash. Here’s the math:

• Membership Cost: $129 annually + a one-time $10 application fee.
• Savings on Retakes: $100 per retake ($375 vs. $275).
• Savings on Initial Exam: $150 ($555–$675 vs. $405).
• Additional Perks: Free access to the PMBOK Guide (worth $50–$100), discounts on study resources, and networking opportunities.

If you’re facing one retake, membership saves you $100, nearly offsetting the $139 cost. If you need two or more attempts or plan to maintain your certification long-term, membership is a no-brainer. Plus, the PMBOK Guide and PMI’s resources can boost your prep.

Hidden Costs of Retaking the PMP Exam

Beyond the retake fee, other expenses can sneak up on you. Here’s what to budget for:

• Study Materials: Expect to spend $50–$300 on resources like the PMBOK Guide ($50–$100), practice exams ($100–$200), or flashcards ($20–$50).
• Prep Courses: Online courses range from $500–$1,500, while in-person boot camps can cost $1,000–$2,000. Reputable providers like Brainsensei or 4PMTI offer structured plans to improve your odds.
• Time Investment: Studying 100–200 hours means time away from work or family. If you take unpaid leave for prep or testing, factor in lost income.

These costs vary based on your needs, but skimping on quality resources can lead to another failure—and another $275–$375 fee. Invest wisely to pass on your next try.

Quick Tip: Use our PMP Cost Calculator to estimate your total retake expenses, including membership and study materials.

PMI Retake Policies You Need to Know

PMI’s retake policies shape your strategy. Here’s what you need to understand:

• Three Attempts Allowed: You can take the PMP exam up to three times within your one-year eligibility period.
• 30-Day Waiting Period: After a failed attempt, you must wait 30 days before retaking the exam. Use this time to address weak areas.
• One-Year Reset: If you fail all three attempts, you must wait one year before reapplying, restarting the process and fees.

These rules emphasize the importance of thorough preparation. Rushing into a retake without a plan risks burning through your attempts—and your budget.

Next Step: Review PMI’s official retake policies to plan your schedule.

How to Pass Your PMP Retake in 2025

Failing the PMP exam doesn’t mean you’re unprepared—it means you need a better strategy. Here’s a step-by-step plan to ace your retake:

1. Analyze Your Score Report: PMI provides a detailed report showing your performance in the three domains: People, Process, and Business Environment. Focus on your weakest areas to maximize improvement.
2. Invest in Quality Resources: Use the PMBOK Guide (7th Edition) and reputable practice exams like those from Brainsensei or PMTrainingSchool. Aim for 80%+ on practice tests before retaking.
3. Join a Study Group: Collaborate with other PMP candidates to share insights and stay motivated. PMI chapters or online forums like Reddit’s r/PMP are great starting points.
4. Consider Professional Training: If self-study isn’t enough, enroll in a prep course. Providers like The Career Accelerators offer boot camps with 99%+ pass rates.
5. Simulate Exam Conditions: Take full-length practice exams under timed conditions to build stamina and confidence for the 230-minute test.

Preparation is your best defense against another failure. Commit to 100–150 hours of focused study, and you’ll walk into your retake ready to succeed.

Conclusion: Take Control of Your PMP Retake

Retaking the PMP exam in 2025 costs $275 (PMI members) or $375 (non-members) per attempt, plus study materials ($50–$300) and optional prep courses ($500–$2,000).

PMI membership saves you $100 per retake and unlocks valuable resources, making it a wise choice for most candidates. With a three-attempt limit and a 30-day waiting period, strategic preparation is critical. Analyze your score report, use high-quality tools, and consider professional training to pass your next attempt.

Don’t let a failed PMP exam derail your career. Join PMI to save on fees, enroll in The PMP prep course or book a call for tailored guidance. Your PMP certification is closer than you think—start today.