LTP

Licensed Training Providers (LTPs) in the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) ecosystem are organizations authorized by the Cyber-AB (CMMC Accreditation Body) to deliver official training programs for individuals seeking CMMC-related certifications. LTPs play a crucial role in ensuring that professionals working within the CMMC ecosystem—such as Certified CMMC Professionals (CCPs) and Certified CMMC Assessors (CCAs)—receive high-quality, standardized training that aligns with the requirements of the CMMC framework.

Key Roles and Responsibilities of LTPs:

1 - Delivering Official CMMC Training Programs:

LTPs are authorized to deliver official CMMC training courses to individuals seeking to become Certified CMMC Professionals (CCPs) or Certified CMMC Assessors (CCAs). These training programs are designed and approved by the Cyber-AB, ensuring they cover all necessary topics related to the CMMC framework and the NIST 800-171 security controls.

LTPs deliver courses using approved Licensed Partner Publishers (LPPs) materials. These LPPs are responsible for developing and maintaining the curriculum that LTPs use for CMMC training.

2 - Certifying CMMC Professionals and Assessors:

LTPs provide the training required for individuals to become Certified CMMC Professionals (CCPs) and Certified CMMC Assessors (CCAs). The training covers key areas such as understanding the CMMC model, how to assess and implement security controls, and preparing organizations for CMMC certification.

After completing the training provided by an LTP, candidates are eligible to sit for the CMMC certification exams administered by the Cyber-AB.

3 - Supporting the Growth of CMMC Expertise:

By offering official CMMC training, LTPs help grow the pool of qualified professionals within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB) who can support defense contractors in achieving CMMC compliance. This includes both internal personnel (who work within a contracting organization) and external consultants (who advise multiple organizations).

LTPs ensure that individuals receive standardized, high-quality education that aligns with the latest updates to the CMMC model, including the transition to CMMC 2.0.

4 - Providing Training for Different CMMC Levels:

LTPs offer training for CMMC Level 1 (Foundational) and Level 2 (Advanced), as well as guidance for Level 3 (Expert), which focuses on more advanced cybersecurity practices.

The training is tailored to the specific CMMC levels, helping candidates understand the requirements and how to implement or assess the necessary cybersecurity practices for each level.

Key Certifications Supported by LTPs:

1 - Certified CMMC Professional (CCP):

The CCP is an entry-level certification for individuals who want to assist organizations with understanding and implementing the CMMC framework. A CCP is qualified to work as a consultant or within an organization to help prepare for CMMC certification.

Training: LTPs offer official CCP courses that cover the fundamentals of the CMMC framework, NIST 800-171 controls, and the roles and responsibilities of a CCP. This training helps candidates understand how to assess and implement the necessary controls to achieve CMMC compliance.

2 - Certified CMMC Assessor (CCA):

CCAs are individuals certified to perform formal CMMC assessments on behalf of Certified Third-Party Assessment Organizations (C3PAOs). CCAs assess defense contractors’ compliance with the CMMC requirements at various levels.

Training: LTPs offer more advanced courses for those seeking CCA certification. These courses include the assessment methodologies, auditing procedures, and compliance requirements necessary to perform third-party assessments at CMMC Levels 1, 2, or 3.

Benefits of Using LTPs for CMMC Training:

Accredited and Trusted Source of Knowledge:

LTPs are vetted and licensed by the Cyber-AB, ensuring that the training provided is of high quality and aligns with the official standards of the CMMC framework. This ensures that individuals trained by LTPs are well-prepared for their certification exams and for working within the CMMC ecosystem.

Access to Approved Training Materials:

LTPs use training materials developed by Licensed Partner Publishers (LPPs), which are approved by the Cyber-AB. This ensures that the curriculum is up-to-date, accurate, and relevant to current CMMC requirements and best practices.

Training for Both New and Experienced Professionals:

LTPs provide training that is suitable for a wide range of professionals, from those new to cybersecurity and compliance to seasoned cybersecurity experts seeking CMMC certification. This flexibility allows individuals and organizations to tailor their training needs to their level of experience.

Continuous Learning and Updates:

As the CMMC framework evolves, LTPs provide updated training materials to reflect any changes in requirements, assessment procedures, or cybersecurity standards. This ensures that individuals trained by LTPs remain current with the latest developments in CMMC.

Pathway to CMMC Certification:

For individuals seeking to work in CMMC-related roles, LTPs offer a structured and official pathway to achieving certification. This is critical for anyone looking to become a Certified CMMC Professional (CCP) or Certified CMMC Assessor (CCA), as these certifications are increasingly in demand as the DoD implements CMMC requirements across the Defense Industrial Base.

How to Find an LTP:

The Cyber-AB maintains a directory of approved Licensed Training Providers (LTPs) on their official website. This directory allows individuals and organizations to find LTPs that offer CMMC training programs in various formats, including in-person and online courses.

Summary:

Licensed Training Providers (LTPs) are essential to the CMMC ecosystem. They are accredited by the Cyber-AB to deliver official CMMC training to individuals seeking certification as Certified CMMC Professionals (CCPs) or Certified CMMC Assessors (CCAs). By using approved training materials and offering courses aligned with the CMMC framework, LTPs help ensure that individuals working with or within defense contractors are well-prepared to implement, assess, and maintain cybersecurity practices that meet the CMMC requirements. For anyone aiming to enter the CMMC consulting space or perform assessments, LTPs provide the necessary training and support for achieving these certifications.