Why Should You Obtain the CIPP/E Certification?

With the European Union continuing to lead the global conversation on privacy and data protection, it has never been more critical for professionals in the field to understand the nuances of European privacy laws. Whether you're just starting in data protection or you're a seasoned expert, having a deep understanding of key regulations, particularly the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), is essential.

One of the best ways to demonstrate your knowledge and credibility in this area is by obtaining the Certified Information Privacy Professional / Europe (CIPP/E) certification.

What Is the CIPP/E Certification?

The CIPP/E is awarded by the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP), a globally recognized nonprofit organization based in the U.S. IAPP certifications are among the most respected and in-demand credentials in the privacy and data protection industry. They’re widely viewed as the gold standard for demonstrating professional competency.

Holding the CIPP/E means you have:

• In-depth knowledge of European data protection laws, including the GDPR

• A strong grasp of how these laws regulate the collection, processing, storage, sharing, and disclosure of personal data

• A foundational understanding of global privacy concepts, enforcement models, and data governance principles

  
  

In essence, the CIPP/E certification helps you answer the “what” of European privacy law:

• What data is protected under EU regulations?

• What obligations do organizations have?

• What are the penalties for non-compliance?

How Do You Earn and Maintain the CIPP/E?

To obtain the CIPP/E certification, you must pass a 90-question, multiple-choice exam administered by the IAPP. The exam lasts 2.5 hours.

What’s Required?

• No prior experience or prerequisites are needed to take the exam, making it ideal for both entry-level professionals and career changers.

• After passing, you’ll need to:

  • Complete 20 hours of Continuing Privacy Education (CPE) every two years

  • Pay a $250 annual maintenance fee, which is waived for IAPP members

Why Get Certified? The Benefits of Earning the CIPP/E

The CIPP/E is increasingly appearing in job descriptions as either a required or preferred qualification for roles involving privacy compliance, especially in legal, compliance, IT, HR, and consulting positions. Organizations across healthcare, finance, technology, and many other sectors look for professionals who understand European data protection rules.

Earning the Certified Information Privacy Professional/Europe (CIPP/E) credential offers several significant benefits:

1. In-Depth Understanding of GDPR and European Privacy Laws

The CIPP/E certifies your knowledge of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR) and other European data protection laws.

2. Increased Career Opportunities

Professionals with CIPP/E are in high demand across industries.

3. Industry Recognition and Credibility

Issued by the International Association of Privacy Professionals (IAPP), the CIPP/E is widely recognized and respected as a benchmark for privacy expertise in Europe.

4. Competitive Salary Advantage

CIPP/E certification often correlates with higher salaries for privacy professionals. Employers value the credential as evidence of specialized knowledge and readiness to take on complex privacy responsibilities.

5. Strong Foundation for Advanced Privacy Certifications

The CIPP/E is often a stepping stone toward other IAPP certifications.

IAPP research shows that professionals with one IAPP certification earn on average $5,000 more annually than those without. Moreover, those holding multiple certifications can earn up to $15,000 more per year. Privacy professionals report a job satisfaction score of 7.3 out of 10, with many citing the intellectual engagement of the work as a top benefit.

Who Typically Pursues the CIPP/E?

Given its focus on EU legislation, the CIPP/E exam appeals to many legal professionals. It covers key laws such as:

• The General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR)

• The Law Enforcement Data Protection Directive

• The ePrivacy Directive

That said, you don’t have to be a lawyer to succeed. Professionals from diverse fields—such as accounting, consulting, IT, HR, marketing, and more—are increasingly pursuing the certification.

Where Is It Most Popular?

As expected, the CIPP/E is most commonly held by professionals based in Europe. In a recent IAPP survey:

• 67% of European respondents had obtained the CIPP/E

• 27% of U.S.-based professionals also held the credential, reflecting GDPR’s global impact and extraterritorial reach

What’s on the CIPP/E Exam?

The IAPP outlines the exam structure through two documents:

1. Body of Knowledge – An overview of all concepts and topics covered

2. Exam Blueprint – A guide to how exam questions are distributed across those topics

The CIPP/E Exam Covers Three Core Domains:

• Domain I: Introduction to European Data Protection

A. Origins and Historical Context of Data Protection Law

B.   European Union Institutions

C.   Legislative Framework

• Domain II: European Data Protection Law and Regulation

A.  Protection Concepts

B.   Territorial and Material Scope of the General Data Protection Regulation

C.   Data Processing Principles

D.   Lawful Processing Criteria

E.   Information Provision Obligations

F.    Data Subjects’ Rights

G.   Security of Personal Data

H.   Accountability Requirements

I.      International Data Transfers

J.    Supervision and enforcement

K.   Consequences for GDPR violations

• Domain III: Compliance with European Data Protection Law and Regulation

A. Employment Relationship

B.  Surveillance Activities

C.   Direct Marketing

D.   Internet Technology and Communications

The exam is composed entirely of multiple-choice questions in two formats:

1. Straightforward knowledge-based questions

2. Scenario-based questions requiring application of legal principles to real-world examples

Preparing for the CIPP/E Exam

Preparing for the CIPP/E (Certified Information Privacy Professional/Europe) exam requires a strategic mix of understanding legal concepts, studying the official materials, and practicing real-world application of privacy laws. Here’s a practical step-by-step guide to help you prepare effectively:

1. Understand the Exam Structure

The exam consists of:

• 90 multiple-choice questions

• 150 minutes total (including 15 minutes for a non-disclosure agreement and tutorial)

• Focuses on European data protection law, primarily the GDPR

2. Study the IAPP’s Official Body of Knowledge

The IAPP provides a Body of Knowledge (BoK) and an Exam Blueprint.

3. Use the IAPP-Recommended Textbook

Focus especially on:

• GDPR Articles and Recitals

• Real-world case studies and examples

4. Enroll in a CIPP/E Training Course

You can choose from a variety of modalities, such as online or in-person, etc. 

5. Practice with Sample Questions

Use:

• IAPP sample questions (available to members)

• Online practice exams or quizzes (e.g., ExamTopics, Udemy, Quizlet)

• Flashcards to remember definitions and principles

6. Understand Key GDPR Articles

Focus on high-yield Articles such as:

• Art. 5-6 (Principles and Lawful Bases)

• Art. 12-23 (Data Subject Rights)

• Art. 25 (Data Protection by Design and by Default)

• Art. 30 (Records of Processing)

• Art. 32-36 (Security, Breach Notification, DPIAs)

• Art. 44-50 (Transfers of Data Outside the EU)

7. Use Study Groups or Forums

Engage with others preparing for the same exam:

• Reddit r/privacy

• LinkedIn groups

• IAPP community forums

  
  

8. Give Yourself 4–8 Weeks of Focused Study

Have a typical study plan.

Final Thoughts

As the GDPR continues to influence privacy laws around the world, having a CIPP/E certification positions you as a trusted expert in one of the most impactful legal frameworks in modern data protection.

Whether you're aiming to advance your career, pivot into a new role, or solidify your expertise, the CIPP/E offers global credibility, professional recognition, and real career impact.