Top Compliance Certifications to Advance Your Career in 2025
In a world of fast-changing regulations, the right certification can give compliance professionals a real edge.
Compliance certifications are formal credentials that validate your expertise in upholding legal, ethical, and regulatory standards, whether you're focused on risk management, data protection, anti-money laundering (AML), or corporate ethics.
They're more than just letters after your name. They're a signal that you're equipped to navigate complex compliance challenges with confidence.
To help you choose the right credential for your career path, we’ve curated the top compliance certifications in 2025. From foundational to advanced programs, this list breaks down who each certification is best suited for—so you can invest your time and energy in the one that truly moves your career forward.
Best Top Compliance Certifications Shortlist
- Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP) – Best for ethics and compliance management
- Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM) – Best for financial services compliance
- Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) – Best for anti-money laundering (AML) expertise
- Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) – Best for privacy law and regulations
- Certified in Healthcare Compliance (CHC) – Best for healthcare industry compliance
- Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) – Best for fraud prevention and detection
- Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) – Best for IT audit and internal control
- Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – Best for cybersecurity management
- Certified Risk and Compliance Management Professional (CRCMP) – Best for compliance risk and integration
- Certified Governance, Risk and Compliance Professional (GRCP) – Best for integrated GRC
- Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM) – Best for privacy program management
- Certified Information Privacy Technologist (CIPT) – Best for privacy engineering and data security
- Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) – Best for internal audit proficiency
- Certified Risk Management Professional (CRMP) – Best for enterprise risk management
- Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional – International (CCEP-I) – Best for global compliance standards
- Certified Healthcare Research Compliance (CHRC) – Best for research compliance in healthcare
- International Diploma in Governance, Risk and Compliance (ICA Dip GRC) – Best for comprehensive GRC knowledge
Overviews of the Best Top Compliance Certifications
Below are my detailed summaries of the top compliance certifications that earned a place on the 2025 shortlist.
1. Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP) – Best for ethics and compliance management
The Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional (CCEP) credential affirms a professional's commitment to fostering ethical conduct and organizational integrity. Recognized across industries, it reflects an individual's ability to support and sustain compliance programs that align with legal and regulatory expectations. This certification signals practical readiness in navigating complex compliance challenges through a principled and structured approach.
Issued by: Compliance Certification Board (CCB)
Focus:
- Ethics professional standards
- Compliance training and oversight
- Risk mitigation
Prerequisites:
- Education:
- 20 CCB-approved CEUs required
- At least 10 must be from live training or events
- All CEUs must be earned within 12 months before the exam
- Work Experience:
- 1 year full-time compliance work or 1,500 hours in past 2 years
- Duties must align with the Detailed Content Outline (pp. 22–24)
- Exam: Passing the CCEP examination
- Other Certifications: Not required
Renewability: Yes, every two years, with CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
Price:
- Member: $350
- Non-member: $450
Who It’s For: This certification is tailored for compliance professionals seeking to advance in corporate compliance roles while aligning with compliance requirements and ethical expectations.
2. Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM) – Best for financial services compliance
The Certified Regulatory Compliance Manager (CRCM) credential reflects a professional’s capability in overseeing and maintaining effective compliance functions within financial institutions. It signals proven understanding of the regulatory environment and readiness to manage compliance risks in a dynamic landscape. Earning the CRCM demonstrates a strong foundation in institutional compliance aligned with industry-recognized standards.
Issued by: American Bankers Association (ABA)
Focus:
- Financial crime prevention
- Regulatory oversight
- Compliance standards in banking
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience:
- Minimum 3 years of U.S. compliance experience, plus completion of two recognized compliance training programs within the last 5 years.
- At least 6 years of U.S. compliance experience within the last 10 years, with 3 of those years within the most recent 5 years.
- Exam: Passing the CRCM examination.
- Other Certifications: None
Renewability: Yes, every three years with 60 continuing education credits.
Price: $775
Who It’s For: The CRCM is Ideal for compliance professionals in banking aiming to meet certification standards and advance in regulatory roles.
3. Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) – Best for anti-money laundering expertise
The Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist (CAMS) designation is regarded as a global standard for professionals combating illicit financial activity. It affirms an individual's ability to navigate evolving threats in the financial system with clarity, discipline, and adherence to established best practices. CAMS-certified professionals are recognized for their proactive role in strengthening institutional resilience against financial crime.
Issued by: Association of Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialists (ACAMS)
Focus:
- AML frameworks and strategy
- Suspicious activity detection
- Regulatory reporting
Prerequisites:
- Education: Minimum of a high school diploma or equivalent.
- Work Experience: Two years of AML or compliance-related experience can count toward the 40-credit requirement
- Exam: Passing the CAMS examination
- Other Certifications: Not required
Renewability: Yes, every three years, with continuing education units
Price:
- Standard Package:
- Private Sector: $1,995
- Public Sector: $1,495
- Virtual Classroom Bundle:
- Private Sector: $2,395
- Public Sector: $1,995
Who It’s For: The CAMS certification is ideal for professionals in financial services, law enforcement, or compliance roles focused on AML and risk management.
4. Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) – Best for privacy law and regulations
The Certified Information Privacy Professional (CIPP) certification establishes credibility in the legal and operational dimensions of data protection. It represents a pledge to elevate privacy practices amid shifting global regulatory demands. Attaining the CIPP affirms one’s ability to navigate data responsibilities within jurisdictional and organizational frameworks with integrity and foresight.
Issued by: International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP)
Focus:
- Data privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR, CCPA)
- Cross-border data handling
- Regulatory compliance
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Passing the CIPP examination
- Other Certifications: None
Renewability: Yes, every two years through continuing education and training programs.
Price: $550
Who It’s For: The CIPP certification is ideal for legal, compliance, and cybersecurity professionals seeking recognition in privacy law and global data regulations.
5. Certified in Healthcare Compliance (CHC) – Best for healthcare industry compliance
The Certified in Healthcare Compliance (CHC) credential focuses on regulatory and ethical compliance within the healthcare sector. It validates one’s ability to manage compliance requirements in a high-risk industry.
Issued by: Compliance Certification Board (CCB)
Focus:
- Corporate compliance in healthcare
- HIPAA, Stark Law, and OIG guidelines
- Risk assessments and audits
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience:
- At least 1 year in a full-time compliance role or
- 1,500 hours of direct compliance duties within the past 2 years
- Duties must align with the “Detailed Content Outline” in the candidate handbook (pages 22–24)
- Exam: Passing the CHC examination
- Other Certifications: None
Renewability: Yes, every two years with at least 20 CEUs and 40 CCB CEUs.
Price:
- Members: $350
- Non-members: $450
Who It’s For: The CHC certification is ideal for healthcare compliance professionals responsible for risk, audits, and training to uphold ethical and legal standards.
6. Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) – Best for fraud prevention and detection
The Certified Fraud Examiner (CFE) distinguishes professionals skilled in navigating the complexities of fraud prevention and response. It reinforces a practitioner’s ability to investigate, evaluate, and address financial misconduct across diverse organizational environments. Earning the CFE designation reflects a commitment to safeguarding institutions through vigilance, analytical acumen, and ethical rigor.
Issued by: Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE)
Focus:
- Financial crime detection
- Investigative skills
- Fraud prevention techniques
Prerequisites:
- Education: Bachelor’s degree or equivalent
- Work Experience: Minimum of two years in compliance, auditing, or investigation roles
- Exam: Passing the four-part CFE Exam
- Other Certifications: None
Renewability: No, it does not expire, but active members must complete Continuing Professional Education (CPE) annually to maintain it.
Price: $475
Who It’s For: The CFE certification is ideal for compliance professionals and auditors focused on fraud detection, financial investigations, and internal controls.
7. Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) – Best for IT audit and control
The Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) certification exemplifies mastery in evaluating enterprise technology environments for integrity, accountability, and risk resilience. It reflects an ability to interrogate complex systems and adapt oversight strategies in response to evolving digital ecosystems. Earning the CISA signals a commitment to elevating assurance standards and reinforcing governance through informed, forward-thinking audit practices.
Issued by: ISACA
Focus:
- IT governance
- Compliance risk in information systems
- Internal audit and assurance
Prerequisites:
- Education:
- 1-year waiver: Associate degree, IT Audit Fundamentals, or CCAK
- 2-year waiver: Bachelor's, master's, or doctorate in any field
- 3-year waiver: Master’s in Information Systems or related field
- Work Experience:
- 5 years in IT audit, security, or control
- 2 years must be from at least 1 of the 5 CISA job practice domain areas
- Exam: Passing the CISA examination
- Other Certifications: None
Renewability: Yes, every three years with at least 20 continuing education units.
Price:
- Members: $575
- Non-members: $760
Who It’s For: The CISA certification is ideal for professionals in data protection, cybersecurity, and IT compliance, especially those focused on IT audit.
8. Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) – Best for information security management
The Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) designation reinforces authority in orchestrating comprehensive cybersecurity strategies across complex infrastructures. It showcases the ability to design, align, and refine security frameworks that withstand emerging digital threats. Earning the CISSP signals a strategic mindset committed to preserving confidentiality, integrity, and operational continuity in high-stakes environments.
Issued by: (ISC)²
Focus:
- Cybersecurity governance
- Risk management
- Systems architecture and engineering
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Minimum of 5 years in two or more CISSP domains
- Exam: Passing the CISSP examination
- Other Certifications: None
Renewability: Yes, every three years with CEUs.
Price:
- Online Self-Paced Training (Adaptive Learning):
- Regular: $995
- Candidate: $536
- Member: $476
- Online Instructor-Led Training (Live Virtual Learning):
- Regular: $2,880
- Classroom Training (In-Person Learning):
- Regular: $3,690
- Candidate: $2,952
- Member: $2,952
Who It’s For: The CISSP certification is ideal for experienced security practitioners, managers and executives interested in proving their knowledge across a wide array of security practices and principles.
9. Certified Risk and Compliance Management Professional (CRCMP) – Best for risk and compliance integration
The Certified Risk and Compliance Management Professional (CRCMP) designation underscores global credibility in harmonizing enterprise-wide compliance and risk functions. It reflects the ability to architect adaptive oversight structures that respond fluidly to changing regulatory landscapes. Earning the CRCMP affirms a commitment to sustaining principled governance and driving strategic resilience in evolving risk environments.
Issued by: International Association of Risk and Compliance Professionals (IARCP)
Focus:
- Enterprise risk governance
- Regulatory and compliance risk
- Compliance training and frameworks
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Passing the CRCMP examination with a rating of 70% or higher.
- Other Certifications: None
Renewability: No, it does not expire.
Price: $297
Who It’s For: The CRCMP certification is ideal for risk managers, compliance managers, internal auditors, and GRC professionals responsible for managing legal obligations and risk exposure.
10. Certified Governance, Risk and Compliance Professional (GRCP) – Best for integrated governance and compliance
The Certified Governance, Risk and Compliance Professional (GRCP) designation illustrates mastery in aligning governance principles with performance, integrity, and resilience. It confirms the capacity to embed cohesive oversight systems that unify strategic objectives with accountability frameworks. Achieving the GRCP affirms a holistic understanding of organizational dynamics and the commitment to advancing principled performance across enterprise functions.
Issued by: OCEG (Open Compliance & Ethics Group)
Focus:
- Integrated GRC strategy
- Organizational governance
- Ethics, controls, and compliance risk
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Passing the GRCP examination
- Other Certifications: None
Renewability: Yes, every five years via continuing education units
Price:
- Pro Membership: $499
- Team Membership: $2000
Who It’s For: The CRCMP certification is ideal for compliance professionals, managers, and auditors pursuing careers in integrated GRC and strategic risk governance.
11. Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM) – Best for privacy program management
The Certified Information Privacy Manager (CIPM) certification signifies leadership in operationalizing data governance across organizational ecosystems. It highlights the capacity to embed privacy principles into scalable frameworks that promote resilience and transparency. Holding the CIPM demonstrates a strategic orientation toward safeguarding data integrity and reinforcing trust in evolving regulatory environments.
Issued by: International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP)
Focus:
- Privacy program governance
- Performance monitoring
- Operational risk management
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Passing the CIPM
- Other Certifications: CIPP certification is recommended but not required
Renewability: Yes, every two years with continuing education units.
Price: $550
Who It’s For: The CIPM certification is ideal for privacy managers, legal advisors, and compliance professionals overseeing data protection and privacy compliance programs.
12. Certified Information Privacy Technologist (CIPT) – Best for privacy engineering and technology
The Certified Information Privacy Technologist (CIPT) credential establishes authority in embedding privacy principles into the architecture of digital systems. It reflects the ability to synchronize technological innovation with data protection mandates across evolving operational environments. Earning the CIPT signals a proactive commitment to aligning ethical data practices with strategic technology leadership.
Issued by: International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP)
Focus:
- Privacy engineering
- Technical implementation of data protection
- Security and privacy-by-design models
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Not required, however; IT or engineering background recommended
- Exam: Passing the CIPT examination
- Other Certifications: None
Renewability: Yes, every two years with continuing education units.
Price: $550
Who It’s For: The CIPT certification is ideal for IT specialists, software engineers, and cybersecurity professionals managing privacy compliance through technical design and data governance.
13. Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) – Best for internal audit proficiency
The Certified Internal Auditor (CIA) is a global standard for internal audit excellence.It affirms the capability to evaluate control environments, anticipate risk, and enhance value through objective advisory. Earning the CIA signals a dedication to driving transparency and accountability across organizational structures.
Issued by: Institute of Internal Auditors (IIA)
Focus:
- Internal audit standards
- Risk-based auditing
- Compliance risk and governance
Prerequisites:
- Education: Hold a Bachelor’s degree or higher
- Work Experience: 1 to 5 years depending on education
- Exam: Passing the three-part CIA examination
- Other Certifications: None
Renewability: Yes, certification renewal is required annually.
Price:
- For Members:
- CIA Application: $120
- Part 1 Exam: $310
- Part 2 Exam: $280
- Part 3 Exam: $280
- For Non-members:
- CIA Application: $240
- Part 1 Exam: $445
- Part 2 Exam: $415
- Part 3 Exam: $415
Who It’s For: The CIA certification is ideal for audit professionals in corporate, government, or nonprofit sectors managing compliance and internal controls.
14. Certified Risk Management Professional (CRMP) – Best for enterprise risk management
The Certified Risk Management Professional (CRMP) credential embodies strategic leadership in navigating complex risk environments with discipline and foresight. It underscores the capability to integrate risk intelligence into enterprise-wide decision-making, align with effective compliance programs, and strengthen organizational adaptability. Attaining the CRMP signifies a principled approach to enhancing resilience, meeting stakeholder expectations, and sustaining long-term performance.
Issued by: Risk and Insurance Management Society (RIMS)
Focus:
- Risk analysis and mitigation
- Strategic alignment
- Enterprise governance
Prerequisites:
- Education:
- Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in risk management
- OR final-year student in a risk management degree program
- OR bachelor’s degree in another field with additional experience
- Work Experience:
- 1 year of full-time risk management experience (with risk management degree)
- 3 years of full-time experience (with non-risk management degree)
- 6 years of full-time experience (no degree)
- Exam: Passing the CRMP examination
- Other Certifications: None
Renewability: Yes, every two years
Price:
Who It’s For: The CRMP certification is ideal for professionals managing enterprise risk and compliance to safeguard organizational performance.
15. Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional – International (CCEP-I) – Best for global compliance standards
The Certified Compliance & Ethics Professional – International (CCEP-I) certification underscores a global commitment to advancing ethical conduct and regulatory integrity across jurisdictions. It highlights the ability to guide international compliance initiatives while adapting to regional complexities and expectations. Earning the CCEP-I affirms readiness to champion compliance values within diverse global frameworks.
Issued by: Compliance Certification Board (CCB)
Focus:
- International compliance standards
- Cross-border regulatory ethics
- Multinational compliance requirements
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Two years of compliance field experience
- Exam: Passing the CCEP-I examination
- Other Certifications: None
Renewability: Yes, every two years, with continuing education units
Who It’s For: The CCEP-I certification is ideal for global compliance professionals managing ethics programs or seeking international CCEP recognition.
16. Certified Healthcare Research Compliance (CHRC) – Best for research compliance in healthcare
The Certified Healthcare Research Compliance (CHRC) certification recognizes professionals who support ethical and compliant research practices in healthcare. It reflects an in-depth understanding of how to manage oversight responsibilities, adhere to regulatory requirements, and maintain accountability in research operations. Earning the CHRC demonstrates a strong commitment to promoting transparency and trust in healthcare research.
Issued by: Health Care Compliance Association (HCCA)
Focus:
- Research compliance
- Ethical standards
- Regulatory adherence
Prerequisites:
- Education: Not required
- Work Experience: Not required
- Exam: Passing the CHRC examination
- Other Certifications: None
Renewability: Yes, it requires renewal every two years.
Price:
- Members: $350
- Non-members: $450
Who It’s For: The CHRC certification is ideal for healthcare research professionals focused on regulatory compliance and ethical oversight.
17. International Diploma in Governance, Risk and Compliance (ICA Dip GRC) – Best for comprehensive GRC knowledge
The International Diploma in Governance, Risk and Compliance (ICA Dip GRC) certification highlights advanced capability in shaping strong ethical and regulatory cultures within organizations. It demonstrates an ability to connect governance principles with structured risk management and compliance strategies. Earning this diploma signals a commitment to guiding sound decision-making and sustainable oversight across complex frameworks.
Issued by: International Compliance Association (ICA)
Focus:
- Governance strategy
- Risk management
- Global compliance certification practices
Prerequisites:
- Education: Undergraduate degree or work equivalent
- Work Experience: Three years preferred in compliance-related roles
- Exam: Passing the ICA Dip GRC Assessments
- Other Certifications: None
Renewability: No, it does not expire.
Who It’s For: The ICA Dip GRC certification is ideal for mid to senior-level compliance professionals overseeing governance and risk across global operations.
FAQs About Top Compliance Certifications
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Other Useful Resources
Here are a few other useful resources to check out:
- Complete Guide for Onboarding Compliance
- Best HR Compliance Companies & Services of 2025
- Complete Guide for Global HR Compliance
- Payroll Compliance Guide 2025
What's Next?
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