Becoming a Certified Disability Management Professional (CDMP) or Certified Return to Work Coordinator (CRTWC)
The Certified Disability Management Professional (CDMP) and Certified Return to Work Coordinator (CRTWC) certification examinations are offered once per year, typically in late May. Once the specific examination date is confirmed, it will be posted on the NIDMAR website. If you would like to receive a direct notification, please email certification@nidmar.ca to be added to the distribution list.
Certifications are awarded by the International Disability Management Standards Council (IDMSC).
It is possible to hold both the CDMP and CRTWC designations. However, these exams are held on the same day each year, so individuals must complete them in separate years if pursuing both credentials.
With the formal adoption of these professional designations in 16 countries, the exams are administered simultaneously across multiple international jurisdictions as well as various locations in Canada.
In recent years, exam sites have included Calgary, Edmonton, Ottawa, Toronto, Vancouver, Winnipeg, and the Maritimes. Examination locations are determined based on factors such as population, accessibility for remote candidates, current and past demand. Additional sites may be added if there is sufficient interest and a viable number of applications from a given region to justify organizing facilities and invigilators.
Organizations planning to have multiple employees write the examination at the same location are strongly encouraged to contact NIDMAR in advance to ensure seating availability. Please email certification@nidmar.ca with your request.
Accommodation Requests
Applicants requiring accommodations must submit their request at the time of application. This must include:
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A description of the disability
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Supporting medical documentation
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Details of the accommodation requested
All accommodation requests are reviewed on a case-by-case basis. The Certification Council is committed to providing accommodations aligned with accepted practices while maintaining the integrity of the exam process.
Examination Information
The certification examinations are conducted over a single day, divided into two sessions:
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Morning: 3.5 hours
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Afternoon: 3.5 hours
Candidates approved for accommodations may be granted additional time as indicated on their application. Please note: textbooks, notes, or other reference materials are not permitted in the examination room.
Download the preparation guides here:
Upon successful completion, candidates receive a certificate issued under the authority of the IDMSC. Designation holders must sign an agreement to uphold the Ethical Standards and Professional Conduct. Once certified, individuals may use the professional designation Certified Return to Work Coordinator (CRTWC) or Certified Disability Management Professional (CDMP) as long as their certification remains in good standing.
For more information, contact NIDMAR:
Phone: 778-421-0821 ext 210
Email: certification@nidmar.ca
Website: www.nidmar.ca
How to Apply
Full application details, including forms and eligibility information, are available at:
Use the site’s horizontal menu to access information on:
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Eligibility Requirements
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Examination Details
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How to Apply
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Maintaining Certification
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Forms and Resources
Disability Management Education Requirements
Applications are assessed based on the applicant’s disability management-related education and continuing education, with consideration given to the recency of this learning. (See Eligibility Criteria).
Numerous certificate and diploma programs in Disability Management are available across Canada, many of which offer flexible options such as part-time, online, or distance learning. These programs often allow you to gain valuable skills while continuing to work. Some programs also include practicum or co-op components, which are especially useful for those not currently employed in the field.
The Examination Preparation Guide serves not only as a study resource but also as a self-assessment tool. Applicants are encouraged to review it to identify any areas where supplemental courses or workshops may strengthen their qualifications. The content outlines within the guide also inform the development of exam questions.
All education activities must align with the nine core Domain Areas outlined in the occupational standards, which reflect the essential competencies for effective disability management practice.
Additional Application Information
Each application is reviewed to confirm that the education and work experience meet the standards set by the IDMSC. This review process begins only after all required documents and fees have been received.
Applicants are encouraged to apply early to allow sufficient time for review and to respond to any follow-up requests.
To ensure a timely review, please include comprehensive and verifiable documentation of your relevant education and/or work experience, as required under the eligibility criteria.