CAMS vs CCAS: which ACAMS certification is right for you?
CAMS is the general AML certification. CCAS applies AML to cryptoassets: how blockchains work, VASP regulation, the Travel Rule and blockchain analytics. Crypto compliance staff should take CCAS. Many add it after CAMS, because CCAS assumes you already know AML basics.
CAMS vs CCAS at a glance
| CAMS | CCAS | |
|---|---|---|
| Full name | CAMS Certification Exam (Certified Anti-Money Laundering Specialist) | CCAS Certification Exam (Certified Cryptoasset Anti-Financial Crime Specialist) |
| Questions | 120 multiple-choice and multiple-select questions | 100 multiple-choice and multiple-select questions |
| Time | 3.5 hours (210 minutes) | 175 minutes |
| Passing score | Scaled score of 75 | Set by ACAMS (see the CCAS Candidate Handbook) |
| Format | Closed book, computer-based | Closed book, computer-based, English only |
| Cost | US$2,095 private sector / US$1,595 public sector package (study materials + exam); ACAMS membership required | US$2,095 private sector / US$1,595 public sector package; ACAMS membership required |
| Languages | Arabic, English, French, German, Japanese, Korean, Portuguese, Russian, Spanish, Simplified Chinese and Traditional Chinese (the updated CAMS program launched in English first, with translations rolling out in 2026) | English only |
| Where | Pearson VUE (test center or online proctored) | Pearson VUE (test center or online proctored) |
| Level | Specialist | Specialist |
What each exam covers
CAMS
- Understanding financial crime risks and methods
- Global AFC frameworks, governance and regulations
- Building an AFC compliance program
- Tools and technologies to fight financial crime
CCAS
- Cryptoassets and blockchain fundamentals
- Financial crime risks and regulatory frameworks for cryptoassets
- AFC compliance programs for cryptoassets
- Crypto AFC case studies and blockchain investigations
Which should you take?
CAMS is the general AML certification. CCAS applies AML to cryptoassets: how blockchains work, VASP regulation, the Travel Rule and blockchain analytics. Crypto compliance staff should take CCAS. Many add it after CAMS, because CCAS assumes you already know AML basics.
Try both, free
Each free practice test takes about 10 minutes and shows your score by topic. No signup.
FAQ
What is the difference between CAMS and CCAS?
CAMS is the general AML certification. CCAS applies AML to cryptoassets: how blockchains work, VASP regulation, the Travel Rule and blockchain analytics. Crypto compliance staff should take CCAS. Many add it after CAMS, because CCAS assumes you already know AML basics.
Which is harder, CAMS or CCAS?
CAMS: 120 multiple-choice and multiple-select questions in 3.5 hours (210 minutes). CCAS: 100 multiple-choice and multiple-select questions in 175 minutes. The longer exam covers more ground, but the harder one is the one further from your daily work. Take both free practice tests to see where you stand.
Can I hold both CAMS and CCAS?
Yes. ACAMS certifications are separate credentials and many professionals hold more than one. Each has its own exam and recertification.
How do I prepare for CAMS and CCAS?
Start with the free practice test for each, then study by topic. All-Access ($147 a month) covers every ACAMS exam on one plan, so you can prepare for both without paying twice.
More comparisons
Exam details are summarized from ACAMS' published information as of October 2026. Confirm with ACAMS before you book. AMLExamPrep is not affiliated with ACAMS.