While guidance about getting ready for CMMC is widely available, there is far less clarity around the certification assessment itself. This FAQ addresses the most common questions we hear from organizations preparing for an official CMMC assessment.
What Is a C3PAO?
A CMMC Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO) is an independent organization authorized by the Cyber AB to conduct official CMMC certification assessments. C3PAOs do not provide consulting or readiness services for the organizations they assess. Their role is to objectively evaluate whether an organization meets the required CMMC level based on evidence, implementation, and demonstrated practices. IBSS is a certified C3PAO, authorized to conduct CMMC assessments in accordance with program requirements.
Do All Companies Need a C3PAO Assessment?
Not all companies will require a third-party assessment. CMMC Level 1 allows for self-assessment in most cases. Companies will need a C3PAO assessment if they want to expand their options with respect to bidding on DoD contracts.
What Is the Difference Between Readiness and Certification?
This is one of the most common points of confusion.
- Readiness activities focus on preparation, gap identification, and remediation. This is the time to ask questions and fix any issues
- Certification assessments determine whether requirements are met at the time of assessment
C3PAOs perform certification assessments only. If gaps are identified during an assessment, certification cannot be issued until those gaps are resolved and reassessed.
How Do We Know If We’re Ready for an Assessment?
Organizations are generally ready for a CMMC Level 2 assessment when they can demonstrate:
- Full implementation of NIST SP 800-171 requirements
- A completed and accurate System Security Plan (SSP)
- Objective evidence supporting each control
- Consistent, repeatable cybersecurity practices
If documentation or evidence is incomplete, the assessment will result in a lack of certification.
What Happens During a CMMC Assessment?
A CMMC assessment follows a structured, multi-phase process designed for consistency and integrity. While details vary by environment, assessments typically include:
- Review of documentation and policies
- Validation of all controls
- Interviews with key personnel
- Examination of objective evidence
Assessors evaluate not just whether controls exist, but whether they are implemented, maintained, and functioning as required.
How Long Does a CMMC Assessment Take?
Assessment duration depends on several factors, including:
- Scope of the assessment boundary
- Complexity of the environment
- Quality and organization of documentation
- Availability of personnel during the assessment
Some assessments can be completed in a matter of weeks, while others require more time due to scope or remediation needs.
Can We Fix Issues During the Assessment?
CMMC assessments are not iterative consulting engagements. If deficiencies are identified, some issues can be addressed quickly (e.g., a documentation update) and others require a POA&M (e.g., a technical implementation. Certification can only be issued once all required practices are fully implemented and validated. This is why preparation and internal verification are critical before scheduling an assessment.
How Far in Advance Should We Schedule a C3PAO?
Demand for CMMC assessments is increasing, and assessor availability is finite. Organizations are encouraged to plan well ahead of contract deadlines and avoid waiting until certification is contractually required. Scheduling early reduces risk and allows flexibility if additional preparation is needed.
Final Thoughts
CMMC certification is not a checkbox exercise. It is a formal validation of cybersecurity maturity that directly impacts an organization’s ability to do business with the Department of Defense. Understanding the role of C3PAOs and what to expect during an assessment helps organizations make informed decisions, prepare appropriately, and avoid unnecessary delays.
Book Your Free Consultation Today
For defense contractors seeking CMMC C3PAO Level 2 assessment services, IBSS is the trusted choice. As an authorized C3PAO with decades of experience, ISO and CMMI certifications, and deep expertise in DoD requirements, IBSS delivers assessments that are fast, thorough, and reliable, helping contractors meet DoD standards and NIST SP 800-171 compliance with confidence.
Book your CMMC C3PAO Level 2 eligibility call today or email us at CMMCC3PAO@ibsscorp.com to start the path toward certification with a team that knows the process inside and out.
About IBSS
Since 1992, IBSS has provided transformational cybersecurity services to the Federal defense, civilian, and commercial sectors. IBSS is an Authorized C3PAO, a designation granted by The Cyber AB (CMMC Accreditation Body) under the guidance of the Department of Defense (DoD). This authorization confirms that our organization has successfully completed the rigorous process required to assess the cybersecurity posture of organizations within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) against the requirements of the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC).
- Authorized by: The Cyber AB (Official Accreditation Body)
- Listing Verification: https://cyberab.org/Member/C3PAO-2829-Ibss-Corp
- Relevant Standards: C3PAO Authorization, CMMI SVC Level 3 and DEV Level 3, ISO 9001:2015 Certified Quality Management System, ISO/IEC 20000-1:2018 Certified Information Technology Services Management (ITSM), ISO/IEC 27001-2022 Certified Information Security Management Systems (ISMS), ISO/IEC 17020:2012 Compliance (in progress).
Read more About Us.
Keywords: CMMC, Authorized C3PAO, DoD Requirements, NIST SP 800-171, Cybersecurity, DIB, Cyber AB
