The CAMS exam: format, passing score and topics
The CAMS exam has 120 multiple-choice and multiple-selection questions and 3.5 hours to answer them. The passing score is 75, you see pass or fail as soon as you finish, and the questions cover four domains set out in the ACAMS Candidate Handbook. You take it with Pearson VUE, at a test centre or online.
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ACAMS exam format
The ACAMS exam for the CAMS certification consists of 120 questions. Some are multiple choice with one correct answer; others are multiple selection, where you choose several. Every candidate has 3.5 hours, which works out at 1 minute 45 seconds per question.
There is no penalty for guessing, so an unanswered question can only cost you. Flag uncertain items, finish the full set, then return to them with the time left.
ACAMS offers the exam in 13 languages. Exam services in Russia and Belarus are suspended until further notice, according to the CAMS page.
Source: ACAMS — CAMS Candidate Handbook (VCB26.16). Checked 10 October 2026.
What is the ACAMS passing score?
The passing score for ACAMS’s CAMS exam is 75. The Candidate Handbook states the figure but does not say whether it is a scaled score or what the maximum is, so treat any conversion to a percentage with caution.
You receive your result — pass or fail — immediately at the end of the test. ACAMS does not give results by phone, fax or email.
Source: ACAMS — CAMS Candidate Handbook (VCB26.16). Checked 10 October 2026.
Exam topics ACAMS tests: the four domains
These are the exam topics ACAMS sets out in the Candidate Handbook, with their weights. The two 30% domains decide most of the result.
- Understanding the risks and methods of financial crime — 30%
- Building an anti-financial crime compliance program — 30%
- Global AFC frameworks, governance, and regulations — 20%
- Tools and technologies to fight financial crime — 20%
Source: ACAMS — CAMS Candidate Handbook (VCB26.16). Checked 10 October 2026.
Taking the ACAMS test: Pearson VUE or online
Once your application is approved, ACAMS emails instructions for scheduling the ACAMS test with Pearson VUE. You can sit it at a Pearson VUE test centre or through online proctoring at home or in the office. The CAMS page says online proctoring is offered to all candidates; the Handbook says it depends on your location, so check the options when you schedule.
Source: ACAMS — CAMS certification. Checked 10 October 2026.
Retakes and waiting periods
If you fail, you need a retake authorization: US$299 in the private sector, US$199 in the public sector. You then wait 30 days before the second attempt, 60 days before the third and 90 days before any further attempt.
Source: ACAMS — CAMS Candidate Handbook (VCB26.16). Checked 10 October 2026.
How long does it take to get ACAMS certified?
ACAMS says you can earn CAMS in as little as four months. The real timeline depends on two things: how quickly you can document your 40 eligibility credits and become an ACAMS member, and how long you need to prepare across the four domains.
Source: ACAMS — CAMS certification. Checked 10 October 2026.
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CAMS exam: questions people ask
How many questions are on the CAMS exam?
120 multiple-choice and multiple-selection questions. Source: ACAMS CAMS Candidate Handbook, checked 10 October 2026.
How long is the CAMS exam?
3.5 hours for all candidates. Source: ACAMS CAMS Candidate Handbook, checked 10 October 2026.
What is the passing score for the CAMS exam?
75. ACAMS does not state whether this is a scaled score or what the maximum is, checked 10 October 2026.
Can I take the ACAMS exam online?
Yes, through online proctoring; the Handbook notes availability depends on your location. Test centre delivery is through Pearson VUE.
When do I get my CAMS result?
Immediately at the end of the test, as pass or fail. Source: ACAMS CAMS Candidate Handbook, checked 10 October 2026.
How soon can I retake the CAMS exam?
After 30 days for the second attempt, 60 days for the third and 90 days for later attempts; a retake authorization costs US$299 or US$199.
