Certifications/Business & Management
CredentialBusiness & Management

Certified Records Manager (CRM)

The Certified Records Manager (CRM) is an international credential from the Institute of Certified Records Managers. It shows you have the knowledge and experience to manage an organization's records and information, and it is voluntary.

Official website ↗
Written by AI from public information on 2026-10-26. Fees and rules change and vary by province — confirm with the official body before relying on anything here.
Typical cost
about CA$1,500 to CA$2,500
an estimate in Canadian dollars
Time to earn it
about 6 to 12 months
Renewal
every 3 years
Issued by Institute of Certified Records Managers (ICRM)

About

The CRM is a professional credential for people who manage records and information. It is recognized around the world and can be earned and used in Canada. It is not a licence, and you do not need it to work in the field.

Records managers and records information managers help organizations keep track of their documents and data. They set rules for how long records are kept, how they are stored, and when they are safely destroyed. Many employers in government, health care, finance, law and education value this credential because it shows you meet a recognized professional standard.

How to get it

  1. Build your education and experience
    The institute looks for a mix of formal education and hands-on work in records and information management. Check the current eligibility rules before you apply so you know where you stand.
  2. Apply for the credential
    Submit an application that documents your education and work history. The institute reviews it to confirm you are ready to sit the exam.
  3. Study for the exam
    Plan for a few months of steady study. Many candidates use study guides, courses and study groups, and they review the main areas of records and information management.
  4. Pass the exam
    The exam covers several parts of the field. You may need to pass each part, and you can usually retake any part you do not pass.
  5. Keep your certification current
    Once you are certified, you take part in ongoing learning and professional activities. This keeps your skills up to date and your credential in good standing.

The exam

The CRM exam is a written test made up of several parts. Together they cover the main areas of records and information management, such as managing records through their full life, legal and regulatory requirements, and protecting information. You can take the parts at different times, which helps if you are studying while working.

Careers that mention it

Keeping it

Your CRM does not last forever on its own. You keep it current by completing continuing education and professional activities on a regular schedule, and by paying a renewal fee. Keep a record of your learning so renewal is simple when the time comes.

At a glance
Issued byInstitute of Certified Records Managers (ICRM)
TypeCredential
Where it appliesInternationally, including Canada
Required to workNo
Typical costabout CA$1,500 to CA$2,500
Time to earn itabout 6 to 12 months
Renewalevery 3 years
Sources
Last checked 2026-10-25