The Chartered Professional Mediator (ChPM) pathway is designed to be transparent, predictable, and accessible. The following fees and timelines reflect the full credentialing process, from application through assessment. All fees support the administration, validation, and maintenance of a nationally recognized competency‑based credential.
Application Fee
The application fee is $150 and is due at the time of submission.
This fee is non‑refundable and covers:
- Application intake and review
- Documentation verification
- Creation of the applicant’s secure PMBS account
Applications cannot be processed without payment.
Written Examination Fee
The written examination must be scheduled at least two weeks before the exam date and accompanied by the $350 fee.
The fee covers:
- Live‑remote proctoring
- Exam administration and scoring
- Secure testing infrastructure
Performance‑Based Assessment Fee
The performance‑based assessment fee is $395 and is paid directly to the Maryland Council for Dispute Resolution (MCDR).
The fee covers:
- Two trained assessors
- Simulation setup and evaluation
- Scoring and reporting of results
Testing Windows
The written examination is offered twice annually:
- Spring/Summer testing window
- Fall/Winter testing window
Candidates receive exam instructions approximately 30 days before a scheduled exam.
The performance‑based assessment is scheduled individually with MCDR and must be completed within six months of passing the written exam.
Eligibility Period
Once an application is approved:
- The candidate’s eligibility remains valid for 12 months from the application approval.
- Both assessments must be completed within this 12‑month period
- If the written exam is not passed on the first attempt, candidates may retest during the next available window (within the same eligibility period) for a $250 retest fee
After the eligibility period expires, a new application and full payment will be required.
Payment Methods
All PMBS fees must be paid through the secure online payment system. Accepted methods include:
- Major credit and debit cards
- Electronic check (e-check, ACH, SEPA)
Billing questions may be directed to the PMBS support team.