Society of Defense Financial Management (SDFM) Certification Overview

The Society of Defense Financial Management (SDFM), formerly known as the American Society of Military Comptrollers (ASMC), is a prominent non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the education, certification, and professional standards within the defense financial management sector. With a robust membership spanning over 2,300 professionals across more than 30 countries, SDFM serves both military and civilian individuals engaged in financial management roles supporting the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) and the U.S. Coast Guard.

Certified Defense Financial Manager (CDFM) Program

Purpose and Benefits

SDFM’s Certified Defense Financial Manager (CDFM) credential is designed for professionals seeking to demonstrate their expertise in defense financial management. This certification is not only recognized by the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense (Comptroller) as an alternative to the Defense Financial Management Certification Program (DFMCP) but is also endorsed for DFMC levels 2 and 3.

Key Benefits of CDFM Certification:

• Professional Validation: Demonstrates advanced proficiency in defense financial management.
• Career Advancement: Enhances opportunities for career growth within the DoD and related sectors.
• Professional Standards: Upholds the highest standards of ethical and professional practice in financial management.

Certification Requirements

To earn and maintain the CDFM designation, candidates must:

1. Meet Education and Experience Criteria: Fulfill specific educational and professional experience requirements.
2. Pass Three Core Exams: Demonstrate knowledge across three primary areas:
   • Module 1: Resource Management Environment
   • Module 2: Budget and Cost Analysis
   • Module 3: Accounting and Finance
3. Recertify Every Two Years: Ensure continued compliance with the latest standards and practices.

Candidates who also pass the Module 4 exam, focused on defense acquisition competencies, receive the CDFM-A designation, signifying their expertise in acquisition specialties.

For detailed steps on earning certification, visit: SDFM Certification Overview

CDFM Candidate Handbook

The CDFM Candidate Handbook is an essential resource for prospective candidates. It outlines the certification requirements, policies, procedures, and examination rules. Candidates are advised to thoroughly review the Handbook and use the provided exam blueprints as their primary study guides. A complimentary copy of the Handbook can be accessed here: CDFM Candidate Handbook

Exam Scheduling and Testing Options

Scheduling Your Exam

1. Enroll in the CDFM Program: Register on the SDFM website at SDFM CDFM Certification.
2. Purchase Your Exam: Buy your exam through the SDFM website.
3. Receive Your Pearson VUE Details: After purchasing, you will receive an email with your Pearson VUE candidate ID and instructions for scheduling.

Exam Scheduling Options:

• In-Person Testing: Appointments can be made at Pearson VUE test centers. Availability is on a first-come, first-served basis.
• Online Proctored Testing (OnVUE): Take your exam from home with live proctoring. Ensure you complete the required System Test and review technical requirements before your exam.

For more details on online proctored testing, watch the OnVUE Tutorial Video.

Identification Requirements

For both in-person and online proctored exams, you must present a valid government-issued ID with your photo and signature. The name on your ID must match the name on your Pearson VUE account.

Acceptable IDs include:

• Passport
• Driver’s License
• National/Local Identification Card
• Green Card or Visa

Note: Military IDs and renewal forms with expired IDs are not accepted for online proctored exams.

Policies and Procedures

Rescheduling and Cancellation Policies

• Rescheduling: Can be done through your Pearson VUE account or by calling Pearson VUE. Rescheduling within 1-3 business days incurs a $50 fee. Less than 24 hours before the appointment results in forfeiture of the exam fee.
• Cancellation: Cancellations within 24 hours forfeit the exam fee. Cancellations more than four business days before the appointment can be rescheduled without a fee.

No Shows and Emergencies

• No Shows: Failure to appear without prior cancellation forfeits the exam fee unless documented extenuating circumstances are provided within 30 days.
• Emergencies: Contact SDFM Certification Department for emergencies affecting your ability to attend the exam.

Testing Center Admission and Conduct

• Arrival: Arrive 30 minutes early for check-in. Late arrivals may be refused admission.
• Personal Belongings: Personal items must be left outside the testing room. Secure storage is provided.

Facial Comparison and Misconduct

• Facial Comparison: Pearson VUE may use facial comparison technology to verify identity. Consent is required to proceed with online proctored testing.
• Misconduct: Any form of misconduct can lead to disqualification, cancellation of exam scores, and reporting to third parties.