Frequently Asked Questions

Are online CPR courses accepted by NARM?

No. While we understand that the new process includes taking the test online, NARM only accepts certification from courses which include a hands-on skills component. Online-only courses are not accepted. Approved CPR courses include the American Heart Association, the Red Cross, and American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI) Basic Life Support. Neonatal resuscitation courses must be approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Canadian Paediatric Society, or pre-approved by NARM. Courses must be approved for use in the U.S. or Canada.

Where can I find all NARM fees?

All NARM fees are listed at narm.org/billing.

Can I use a personal check to pay my fees?

All fees must be paid by credit card. NARM no longer accepts cashiers checks, money orders, or personal checks. If you are using Certemy for your application process, you will pay through Certemy. However, if you are unable to use Certemy, you will receive an invoice by email with a direct link for credit card payment once your application has been received and logged in.

Can I pay with a credit card?

Yes, NARM accepts Credit Card transactions. If you wish to pay by credit card, you will receive an invoice by email with a direct link for credit card payment once your application has been received and logged in. Once payment is made, your application will be processed.

Address or email updates may be sent by email to applications@narm.org.

NARM is more than happy to make name changes in the database as long as you send in legal documentation.

  • Submit a copy of one photo ID: Driver’s license, passport, or other government issued photo ID card; or
  • Submit two of the following documents: Social security card, divorce decree stating name change, marriage stating name change, or other court documents of name change.

If you would like to order a replacement CPM Certificate with your updated name, please submit the above documentation and this pdf file here.

Do client codes have to be consistent throughout the application?

Each client must have their own individual code that remains the same throughout the application. If listing more than one pregnancy with the same client, use a different client code for each pregnancy. Client and baby must have the same code. If more than one student is working with a client they should use the same code.

If I use a client in my application that has had more than one child under my care, can I use the same code for each birth?

No, each client’s birth should have its own unique code.

Application Audits

CPMs are randomly audited for quality assurance purposes. Documents required for random audits are Practice Guidelines, Informed Disclosure, Informed Consent Documents, and Emergency Care Form. Audits require submission of documents within two weeks of notification.

What is an Emergency Care Form?

An Emergency Care Form is a document that is completed for each client. It should include a place to document:

  1. Client name and phone number
  2. Back up physician’s name and phone number
  3. Pediatrician’s name and phone number
  4. Preferred hospital’s name and phone number
  5. Closest hospital’s name and phone number
  6. Directions to client’s home

Can I fax in my audit materials?

Faxes to the NARM Applications office should be 10 pages or less. Longer documents should be mailed.

CPM Practice Guidelines

  • All Certified Professional Midwives are required to have written Practice Guidelines. In the CPM Application, the candidate and her preceptor sign affidavits that the candidate maintains these documents.
  • In the recertification application, the CPM again signs a statement verifying that she has written Practice Guidelines and utilizes Informed Consent in sharing these protocols with her clients.
  • NARM does not require that these protocols be turned in with every application, but random audits of applications and recertifications are conducted. Audits require candidates to send copies of their Practice Guidelines and other documents to the NARM Board to verify compliance with NARM’s standards.

When is the NARM Examination given?

The NARM Examination is now computer-based testing. Candidates who have been approved to test can set up a convenient test date directly through the testing company.

Are their any additional fees beyond NARM’s fees?

No, all fees will be paid directly to NARM.

How long is the test? How much time do we have?

The test is a 300 question, multiple choice exam given in two parts. Three hours are allowed for each part. You may leave the testing room when you finish each part.

What is the best way to prepare for the exam?

Tips for Computer Based Testing

Please carefully read this web page with the most current information on computer based testing at a Prometric computer test center. It will explain the process, what you can and cannot bring with you, and what you should and should not do during the exam. 

FAQs for Live Remote Proctored Exams

Please carefully read this web page with the most current information on taking your exam via live remote proctor. It will explain the requirements, the process, and the things you can and cannot do during the exam.  

Can I submit comments?

Candidates will be allowed to make comments about the test questions on the computer. The comments do not affect the score, but may provide guidance on revising or replacing questions for the next form of the examination. There is a comment button next to each question. Please note that there is limited time to take the examination, and adding comments will not extend that time limit. Comments may also be submitted by mail to the NARM Test Department. Comments submitted by mail must be postmarked no later than 7 days after the test date to be considered as part of the appeals process. NARM will carefully consider all comments.

What is the passing score?

Each version of the exam may have a slightly different raw score for passing, but it ranges between 79%-81%. The score is reported on a scale where 75 is the passing score. A scaled score of 75 or higher is passing.

What happens next if I pass the exam?

  • Two test results letters will be sent from the testing companies as an email within the first week of completing the exam.
  • An official letter from NARM reporting your exam results will be sent 2-3 weeks after the exam date.
  • If you have completed all requirements for certification, your CPM certification will be sent 3-4 weeks after notification.
  • If you tested as a student in a MEAC-accredited program, your test scores will be sent to the program. Notification of certification will be sent after the school notifies NARM of your graduation.
  • If you registered for the exam through a state licensing agency rather than as a CPM applicant through NARM, your scores will also be sent to your licensing agency. You may apply for the CPM certification after you receive the license.

What happens next if I do not pass the exam?

  • Your official notification letter from NARM will contain a registration form to retake the exam. Submit the registration form and retake fee by the deadline listed on the form. You will have six months to retake the written exam.
  • Candidates can only take the exam once every two months, maximum six times a year.
  • If a candidate does not pass within three years of application, a “currency” application must be submitted documenting ten additional supervised births. For more information, contact NARM.
  • There is no maximum number of times you may take the NARM exam. Some states that give the exam for licensure do have a maximum number of times the test may be taken. In that case, NARM will need another letter from the state for testing.

Application Receipt

  • Receipt of an application by the deadline does not guarantee automatic approval to take the NARM Examination.  After review of an application, the Applications Department will send notification of approval or any needed corrections.
  • Approval to take the NARM Examination is dependent on completion of the application process, not submission of an application.  NARM reserves the right to return any incomplete applications.
  • Applicants must complete all required work within the timetable set by NARM, including written extensions. An applicant whose application has expired will forfeit all fees. Candidates should keep copies of all application materials submitted. If the candidate needs to have expired application materials returned, a $105 fee will be required. Requests for extensions must be received in writing by the deadline listed. Every effort will be made by NARM to notify applicants of approaching expiration deadlines, but NARM cannot be responsible for notifying candidates who have moved or who do not receive mail at the address listed on the application. The responsibility for meeting deadlines and/or requesting extensions is the candidate’s. If unusual circumstances prevent an applicant from meeting these deadlines, NARM will consider further extensions on an individual basis if submitted in writing prior to the deadline. NARM recommends continued supervised practice throughout the application and testing process.
  • Extension deadlines can be found in the Candidate Information Booklet.

What else might delay my certification?

  • Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (adult) and neonatal resuscitation certification cards must be submitted with the application. These must be kept current during the testing process. 
  • Audits are done on every sixth application. Random audits do not stop the candidate from proceeding through the testing process, but if discrepancies are discovered during the audit, they will need to be resolved before certification is issued.
  • Complaints against a CPM candidate must be resolved before the certification is issued.
General Certification

Are online CPR courses accepted by NARM?

No. While we understand that the new process includes taking the test online, NARM only accepts certification from courses which include a hands-on skills component. Online-only courses are not accepted. Approved CPR courses include the American Heart Association, the Red Cross, and American Safety and Health Institute (ASHI) Basic Life Support. Neonatal resuscitation courses must be approved by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the Canadian Paediatric Society, or pre-approved by NARM. Courses must be approved for use in the U.S. or Canada.

Where can I find all NARM fees?

All NARM fees are listed at narm.org/billing.

Can I use a personal check to pay my fees?

All fees must be paid by credit card. NARM no longer accepts cashiers checks, money orders, or personal checks. If you are using Certemy for your application process, you will pay through Certemy. However, if you are unable to use Certemy, you will receive an invoice by email with a direct link for credit card payment once your application has been received and logged in.

Can I pay with a credit card?

Yes, NARM accepts Credit Card transactions. If you wish to pay by credit card, you will receive an invoice by email with a direct link for credit card payment once your application has been received and logged in. Once payment is made, your application will be processed.

Address or email updates may be sent by email to applications@narm.org.

NARM is more than happy to make name changes in the database as long as you send in legal documentation.

  • Submit a copy of one photo ID: Driver’s license, passport, or other government issued photo ID card; or
  • Submit two of the following documents: Social security card, divorce decree stating name change, marriage stating name change, or other court documents of name change.

If you would like to order a replacement CPM Certificate with your updated name, please submit the above documentation and this pdf file here.

Do client codes have to be consistent throughout the application?

Each client must have their own individual code that remains the same throughout the application. If listing more than one pregnancy with the same client, use a different client code for each pregnancy. Client and baby must have the same code. If more than one student is working with a client they should use the same code.

If I use a client in my application that has had more than one child under my care, can I use the same code for each birth?

No, each client’s birth should have its own unique code.

Audit Materials

Application Audits

CPMs are randomly audited for quality assurance purposes. Documents required for random audits are Practice Guidelines, Informed Disclosure, Informed Consent Documents, and Emergency Care Form. Audits require submission of documents within two weeks of notification.

What is an Emergency Care Form?

An Emergency Care Form is a document that is completed for each client. It should include a place to document:

  1. Client name and phone number
  2. Back up physician’s name and phone number
  3. Pediatrician’s name and phone number
  4. Preferred hospital’s name and phone number
  5. Closest hospital’s name and phone number
  6. Directions to client’s home

Can I fax in my audit materials?

Faxes to the NARM Applications office should be 10 pages or less. Longer documents should be mailed.

CPM Practice Guidelines

  • All Certified Professional Midwives are required to have written Practice Guidelines. In the CPM Application, the candidate and her preceptor sign affidavits that the candidate maintains these documents.
  • In the recertification application, the CPM again signs a statement verifying that she has written Practice Guidelines and utilizes Informed Consent in sharing these protocols with her clients.
  • NARM does not require that these protocols be turned in with every application, but random audits of applications and recertifications are conducted. Audits require candidates to send copies of their Practice Guidelines and other documents to the NARM Board to verify compliance with NARM’s standards.
Testing

When is the NARM Examination given?

The NARM Examination is now computer-based testing. Candidates who have been approved to test can set up a convenient test date directly through the testing company.

Are their any additional fees beyond NARM’s fees?

No, all fees will be paid directly to NARM.

How long is the test? How much time do we have?

The test is a 300 question, multiple choice exam given in two parts. Three hours are allowed for each part. You may leave the testing room when you finish each part.

What is the best way to prepare for the exam?

Tips for Computer Based Testing

Please carefully read this web page with the most current information on computer based testing at a Prometric computer test center. It will explain the process, what you can and cannot bring with you, and what you should and should not do during the exam. 

FAQs for Live Remote Proctored Exams

Please carefully read this web page with the most current information on taking your exam via live remote proctor. It will explain the requirements, the process, and the things you can and cannot do during the exam.  

Can I submit comments?

Candidates will be allowed to make comments about the test questions on the computer. The comments do not affect the score, but may provide guidance on revising or replacing questions for the next form of the examination. There is a comment button next to each question. Please note that there is limited time to take the examination, and adding comments will not extend that time limit. Comments may also be submitted by mail to the NARM Test Department. Comments submitted by mail must be postmarked no later than 7 days after the test date to be considered as part of the appeals process. NARM will carefully consider all comments.

What is the passing score?

Each version of the exam may have a slightly different raw score for passing, but it ranges between 79%-81%. The score is reported on a scale where 75 is the passing score. A scaled score of 75 or higher is passing.

What happens next if I pass the exam?

  • Two test results letters will be sent from the testing companies as an email within the first week of completing the exam.
  • An official letter from NARM reporting your exam results will be sent 2-3 weeks after the exam date.
  • If you have completed all requirements for certification, your CPM certification will be sent 3-4 weeks after notification.
  • If you tested as a student in a MEAC-accredited program, your test scores will be sent to the program. Notification of certification will be sent after the school notifies NARM of your graduation.
  • If you registered for the exam through a state licensing agency rather than as a CPM applicant through NARM, your scores will also be sent to your licensing agency. You may apply for the CPM certification after you receive the license.

What happens next if I do not pass the exam?

  • Your official notification letter from NARM will contain a registration form to retake the exam. Submit the registration form and retake fee by the deadline listed on the form. You will have six months to retake the written exam.
  • Candidates can only take the exam once every two months, maximum six times a year.
  • If a candidate does not pass within three years of application, a “currency” application must be submitted documenting ten additional supervised births. For more information, contact NARM.
  • There is no maximum number of times you may take the NARM exam. Some states that give the exam for licensure do have a maximum number of times the test may be taken. In that case, NARM will need another letter from the state for testing.
What else might delay my certification?

Application Receipt

  • Receipt of an application by the deadline does not guarantee automatic approval to take the NARM Examination.  After review of an application, the Applications Department will send notification of approval or any needed corrections.
  • Approval to take the NARM Examination is dependent on completion of the application process, not submission of an application.  NARM reserves the right to return any incomplete applications.
  • Applicants must complete all required work within the timetable set by NARM, including written extensions. An applicant whose application has expired will forfeit all fees. Candidates should keep copies of all application materials submitted. If the candidate needs to have expired application materials returned, a $105 fee will be required. Requests for extensions must be received in writing by the deadline listed. Every effort will be made by NARM to notify applicants of approaching expiration deadlines, but NARM cannot be responsible for notifying candidates who have moved or who do not receive mail at the address listed on the application. The responsibility for meeting deadlines and/or requesting extensions is the candidate’s. If unusual circumstances prevent an applicant from meeting these deadlines, NARM will consider further extensions on an individual basis if submitted in writing prior to the deadline. NARM recommends continued supervised practice throughout the application and testing process.
  • Extension deadlines can be found in the Candidate Information Booklet.

What else might delay my certification?

  • Cardio-Pulmonary Resuscitation (adult) and neonatal resuscitation certification cards must be submitted with the application. These must be kept current during the testing process. 
  • Audits are done on every sixth application. Random audits do not stop the candidate from proceeding through the testing process, but if discrepancies are discovered during the audit, they will need to be resolved before certification is issued.
  • Complaints against a CPM candidate must be resolved before the certification is issued.