If your organization works with the Department of Defense (DoD) and handles Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI), then CMMC Level 2 is a serious milestone in your cybersecurity journey.
The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) was developed by the DoD to ensure that contractors are effectively protecting sensitive government data against evolving cyber threats. CMMC Level 2 is designed for organizations that manage CUI and require full implementation of the 110 security controls outlined in NIST SP 800-171, the foundational standard for this level.
Whether you're a prime contractor or a subcontractor, understanding what CMMC Level 2 requires is essential for staying eligible to compete for defense contracts. This guide will walk you through the core requirements, why they matter, and how MAD Security can help you prepare with confidence.
CMMC Level 2 is more than just a cybersecurity benchmark. It is a contractual requirement that directly affects your eligibility to work on defense programs involving CUI. While Level 1 focuses on safeguarding less sensitive Federal Contract Information (FCI), Level 2 is designed to protect critical data that, if compromised, could put national security at risk.
Here’s why it matters:
Key Requirements at a Glance:
Organizations must implement these controls fully, maintain supporting documentation like System Security Plans (SSPs) and Plans of Action and Milestones (POA&Ms), and be prepared to demonstrate their effectiveness.
Any organization that stores, processes, or transmits Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) for the DoD will need to meet Level 2 requirements. This includes:
Even small and mid-sized businesses must comply if they are exposed to CUI. Level 2 is not reserved for large defense primes — it is widely applicable across the DIB.
There are two assessment paths under CMMC Level 2, and which one applies depends on the contract.
For lower-risk contracts involving non-prioritized CUI, organizations may complete a self-assessment. These must:
Self-assessment is not a shortcut. The DoD expects accurate, well-supported results.
For contracts involving prioritized CUI, a Certified Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO) must evaluate your organization.
If your organization must undergo a third-party assessment, proper planning and preparation are critical.
At Level 2, the DoD allows POA&Ms for a limited number of controls, and all remediation must be completed within 180 days. Keeping your POA&M accurate and up to date is essential for staying compliant and contract-eligible.
Achieving CMMC Level 2 is not a one-time event. Once certified, you must:
This ongoing work is where many organizations fall short. That’s why MAD Security emphasizes continuous compliance, not just point-in-time certification.
In most cases, organizations need 12 to 18 months to fully prepare for a Level 2 assessment. Factors that affect your timeline include:
Starting early ensures you have time to fix gaps, mature your practices, and document your compliance efforts.
At MAD Security, we bring a unique perspective to CMMC Level 2. We are a CMMC Level 2 Certified External Service Provider, a Registered Provider Organization (RPO), and have achieved a perfect SPRS score of 110. Our team has helped DoD contractors and even C3PAOs navigate the complexities of CMMC — and pass with confidence.
Our services include:
We do more than check boxes. We help you embed compliance into your organization’s culture, operations, and technology — all while minimizing disruption to your business.
Whether you're aiming for a third-party assessment or managing your first self-assessment, getting CMMC Level 2 ready takes planning, commitment, and the right partner.
Let MAD Security help you take the guesswork out of CMMC Level 2. Our team will guide you through every requirement, help you close compliance gaps, and prepare you to pass your assessment with confidence.
Schedule Your Free CMMC Level 2 Consultation TODAY