CDMP Exam Rules
Is the CDMP Exam Open Book? How to Use the DMBOK Efficiently
DAMA currently describes CDMP exams as open book. That does not remove the time constraint: the Fundamentals exam has 100 questions in 90 minutes, so the DMBOK should function as a targeted reference rather than a substitute for knowing the material.
- Know the major concepts before exam day.
- Practice locating uncertain topics quickly in your permitted reference.
- Do not plan to research every question during the exam.
What you should know
Yes. DAMA’s current FAQ states that CDMP exams are open book, but the policy is narrower than “use any resources you want.” Candidates are allowed one book: a textbook or notes, but not both.
A digital book may be used on a separate device such as a tablet or separate laptop. DAMA says it should not be connected to the exam computer or internet during the exam, and a second monitor on the same computer is not an acceptable substitute for a separate device.
The strategic lesson is simple: prepare as though the exam were mostly closed book, then use your permitted reference for high-value lookups. At 54 seconds per question on average, constant searching is too slow.
| Reference choice | Current policy concept | Best preparation use |
|---|---|---|
| Printed DMBOK | One permitted book | Tab/index important sections |
| Digital DMBOK | Separate device | Practice fast search/navigation |
| Personal notes | Can be the one book | Organize for rapid retrieval |
| Book + separate notes | Not permitted under current one-book rule | Choose one reference strategy |
What open-book readiness looks like
You should answer routine concepts from memory and reserve the book for uncertain terminology, edge cases, or verification. Practice a few timed lookup drills so you know whether your printed index or digital search is actually faster.
Original practice question
Under DAMA’s current open-book FAQ, which setup is permitted in principle?
- Printed DMBOK plus a separate notebook of notes
- Digital DMBOK on a separate device used as the one permitted book
- DMBOK on a second monitor attached to the exam computer
- Multiple books if they are all data-management references
Answer: Digital DMBOK on a separate device used as the one permitted book
DAMA currently permits one book and allows a digital version on a separate device; it does not permit using both a book and separate notes or a second monitor on the exam computer.
Original StudyForData practice item; not a recalled or official exam question.Frequently asked questions
Can I use notes?
Yes, but under the current one-book policy notes would be your single permitted reference rather than an additional resource alongside a textbook.
Can I use a PDF?
DAMA currently allows a digital book on a separate device subject to its exam rules.
Can I use the internet?
DAMA’s current guidance says the separate device used for the digital reference should not be connected to the internet during the exam.
Should I practice open book?
Yes, but selectively. Build closed-book recall first, then practice rapid lookup for the kinds of details worth verifying.
Related CDMP resources
Test what you know without the book
Start with our free diagnostic closed book. That shows which topics you truly know before you practice reference lookup.