What do I need to do to get a PMP certificate

1) Read the details for application, fee, exam details ....best resource is of course the PMI website (Refer the PMP Handbook).

2) Once you think you are eligible and have decided to take the exam then don't waste time and first become a member of PMI. If you become member you save some money in form of exam fee. Don't think there is a trick , its really less than the non-member fee .

(Annual Membership fee + PMP exam fee for member) <> (just think this as formal training in project management for 35 hours through recognised organizations, class room training, online study). PDU stands for professional development units.

4) Once you become member apply for the PMP certification (typically it takes 5 days). You need 5-10 hours to fill online application form with details like project experience , duration, your role and how much time you spent on each category of Project management. Also you need to give details of 35 PDU.(If you have not updated the resume better you can do that at the same time ).

5) Once you receive the application confirmation then you need to make payment for exam fees. Once fee payment is made you can set examination date and center etc.

6) After that only thing you need to do is study hard with a proper plan, use your practical experience while reading materials , solve few sample full time question paper and go for the exam with full confidence.