Assessment5 min read

How to Find and Vet a C3PAO

There are 100+ authorized C3PAOs as of 2026. Not all have equal experience. Here's how to find one, what to look for, and what questions to ask before signing a contract.

The Cyber AB maintains the official list of authorized C3PAOs at cyberab.org/catalog. As of mid-2026, there are over 100 authorized C3PAOs, ranging from large national firms to regional boutiques.

C3PAO vs. RPO vs. CCP — know the difference

✓C3PAO (Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization): accredited to conduct official CMMC assessments that result in certification. Only a C3PAO can certify you.
✓RPO (Registered Provider Organization): accredited to provide CMMC consulting and preparation services. They cannot certify you. CMMC Ready Now is an RPO.
✓CCP/CCA (CMMC Professional/Assessor): individual certifications. A CCA is the credentialed lead assessor on a C3PAO assessment team.

Important

Do not use your RPO/consultant as your C3PAO. The Cyber AB prohibits a consulting firm that helped prepare you for CMMC from also conducting the assessment.

What to look for in a C3PAO

✓Experience assessing organizations in your industry
✓Number of completed Level 2 assessments
✓Assessment team credentials: look for CCAs with relevant technical backgrounds
✓Availability and scheduling timeline — in 2026, lead times of 4–6 months are common
✓Transparent fee structure — get a detailed scope of work

Questions to ask before signing

✓How many Level 2 assessments has your team completed to date?
✓Who will be the lead CCA and what industries have they assessed?
✓What is your assessment methodology for each NIST 800-171 domain?
✓How do you handle contested findings during the assessment?
✓What happens if we have POA&M items at the end of the assessment?

Ready to start your CMMC journey?

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