The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is a Department of Defense framework designed to strengthen cybersecurity across its supply chain. If you’re a DoD contractor, you’ll soon be required to meet CMMC standards to compete for contracts.
This article breaks down the official implementation timeline, outlining exactly when you must comply with CMMC 2.0 at different certification levels. So, when will CMMC 2.0 be required for DoD contracts?
CMMC 2.0 is the updated Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification, requiring DoD contractors to implement security controls based on the sensitivity of the information they handle. It protects Federal Contract Information (FCI) and Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) while streamlining the original model from five levels to three and aligning with NIST SP 800-171.
The Department of Defense is rolling out CMMC 2.0 in phases, with initial requirements set for October 1, 2025. Your business must meet the appropriate certification level by this deadline to remain eligible for DoD contracts. Understanding the timeline will help you plan for compliance and avoid disruptions.
Phase 1 begins in early to mid-2025, once the DoD finalizes the second part of the CMMC rule under 48 C.F.R. Part 204. During this phase, new DoD solicitations will include self-assessment requirements for CMMC Level 1 and Level 2. You won’t need certification yet, but you must self-assess and affirm compliance to bid on contracts.
Phase 2 starts in early to mid-2026, at which point the DoD will begin requiring third-party CMMC Level 2 certification for applicable contracts. If your business handles CUI, you must be certified to remain competitive in the bidding process.
Phase 3 begins in early to mid-2027. If you have a contract awarded after this date, you must obtain CMMC Level 2 certification to exercise option periods. The DoD will also introduce CMMC Level 3 certification for select contracts involving more sensitive data.
Phase 4, launching in early to mid-2028, marks full implementation. At this point, all new solicitations and contract renewals requiring CMMC compliance will enforce certification as a condition of award.
To summarize, CMMC 2.0 will be required for DoD contracts starting October 1, 2025. The rollout will occur in phases, with self-assessments beginning in 2025 and full certification requirements phased in through 2028 for applicable contracts.
Failing to meet CMMC requirements for DoD contractors can result in losing both current and future contracts, making it essential for your organization to meet the necessary security standards.
For those at Level 2 and Level 3, compliance goes beyond self-assessments.
Contractors must undergo third-party evaluations conducted by CMMC Third-Party Assessment Organizations or the Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center (DIBCAC) to verify that security measures meet the required standards.
To get started, conduct a gap assessment to identify weaknesses in your cybersecurity practices. This allows you to prioritize remediation efforts and allocate resources effectively.
Next, implement the necessary security controls for your CMMC level, which may involve updating policies, deploying new security tools, and training employees on best practices.
Throughout the process, document your compliance efforts, including security measures and training records, as these will be critical during the assessment phase.
For a smoother transition, consider working with cybersecurity professionals or Managed Security Service Providers who specialize in CMMC compliance. Their expertise can help ensure your organization is fully prepared for certification.
CMMC for DoD contractors and subcontractors is essential, offering key advantages that go beyond contract eligibility. Here’s how compliance benefits your business:
Navigating CMMC 2.0 compliance is challenging, but BEMO streamlines the process with tailored managed services, ensuring your organization meets DoD cybersecurity requirements.
Get CMMC 2.0 Ready with BEMO – Stay Compliant, Stay Competitive.
Non-compliant contractors will be ineligible to bid on or renew DoD contracts that require CMMC certification, potentially resulting in lost business opportunities.
Yes, many solutions, such as managed security service providers, offer scalable compliance strategies tailored to small and mid-sized businesses.
Yes, starting in 2027, contractors must meet certification requirements to exercise option periods on applicable contracts awarded after the rule’s effective date.