A Quick Guide to APICS CLTD Certification

Key takeaways

The Certified in Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution (CLTD) credential prepares professionals at all levels for careers in logistics.

• The CLTD exam costs between $1,100 and $1,530, depending on whether you’re a member of the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM) [1].

• Earning your CTLD certification can prepare you for roles in warehouse management, logistics network design, inventory control, transportation, customs and international shipping, and reverse logistics.

• You can enhance your operations management capabilities and leadership skills by earning your CLTD certification. 

Learn more about CLTD certification, offered by the world's largest non-profit association specializing in supply chains. If you want to build key logistics skills, consider enrolling in the Unilever Supply Chain Data Analyst Professional Certificate. In as little as four months, you’ll have the opportunity to learn in-demand skills in supply chain analytics, including demand forecasting and cost analysis. By the end, you’ll have earned a career credential to add to your resume and LinkedIn profile.

What is CLTD certification?

Administered by the Association for Supply Chain Management (ASCM), the Certified in Logistics, Transportation, and Distribution (CLTD) credential emphasizes attaining the essential knowledge necessary to excel in the ever-evolving industry of logistics, transportation, and distribution. As of 2026, CLTD is at version 3.0.

The CLTD was originally developed by the Association for Operations Management (APICS). In 2018, APICS launched CLTD, which now administers the CLTD and other valuable APICS certifications. Because of this, you will often see the CLTD referred to as APICS CLTD certification.

Who should attempt the CLTD exam?

The CLTD certification is an excellent choice if you are seeking employment opportunities in:

• Warehouse management

• Logistics network design

• Inventory control

• Transportation

• Customs and international shipping

• Reverse logistics

If you’re an experienced professional, CLTD can help you stay abreast of the latest logistics and supply chain management techniques, protocols, and shifts. CLTD can also help you begin your career in logistics, transportation, and distribution.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the demand for logisticians could increase by 17 percent between 2024 and 2034, surpassing the average growth rate for all occupations [2]. The forecast translates to approximately 40,300 job openings for logisticians annually over the next decade. ​​Many of those openings will stem from the need to replace workers who move into different roles or leave the labor force, often through retirement [2].

Read more: What Is Inventory Management? Benefits, Challenges, and Methods

Eligibility criteria for CLTD certification

According to APICS, the CLTD certification is accessible to all and does not necessitate any prerequisites. This makes the credential highly accessible to anyone, from entry-level to management career status.

CLTD certification cost: How much is the CLTD exam?

The exam cost differs for ASCM members and nonmembers [1].

• ASCM members with certification upgrade: $1,100

• Nonmembers and members without certification upgrade: $1,530

An annual membership and certification upgrade ($199) will help you save on the CLTD Learning System, exam, and bundle purchases [1]. 

ASCM also offers The Learning System to help you prepare for the exam, as well as a bundled package. The Learning System includes books, online study tools, and an exam content manual (ECM), which is available at $1,100 for ASCM members and $1,530 for nonmembers and members without certification upgrades [1]. ASCM's bundle includes the CLTD Learning System, exam, and second chance exam with membership. Members pay $1,980 for the bundle, while nonmembers and members without a certification upgrade pay $2,760 [1]. 

What's on the CLTD exam? 

Earning your CLTD designation requires successfully passing a single exam encompassing nine modules. The following is a list of modules, according to the ASCM [3]:

• Module 1: Logistics Overview and Strategy

• Module 2: Logistics Network Design

• Module 3: Sustainability and Reverse Logistics

• Module 4: Capacity Planning and Demand Management

• Module 5: Order Management

• Module 6: Inventory Management

• Module 7: Warehouse Management

• Module 8: Transportation

• Module 9: Global Logistics 

What score do I need to pass the CLTD exam?

The test includes 150 questions, of which 130 are operational questions, and 20 are pretest questions [1]. Scoring spans from 200 to 350, with passing scores of 300 or more. A score below 300 points constitutes a failure [1]. You will have three and a half hours to complete the CLTD examination [1].

Note: Pretest questions, distributed randomly throughout the CLTD exam, have no bearing on your final score. These questions, although compulsory, exist solely for statistical purposes.  

How to register for the CLTD exam

You can take the CLTD exam at Pearson VUE test centers or online using the OnVue system.

You will need an Authorization to Test (ATT) to schedule an exam with Pearson VUE. After purchasing the exam, ASCM will send you an ATT confirmation email with scheduling instructions. Ensure you take the exam within the validity period specified in your ATT. As per ASCM, an ATT is valid for six months, starting from either the exam purchase date or the date when the exam credit was utilized [4]. 

Is CLTD certification worth it? Benefits of holding a CLTD certification

Here are a few notable advantages of obtaining the CLTD certification: 

• The CLTD certification helps you to become equipped with the skills to effectively manage operations, spanning from inbound materials management to reverse logistics.

• Attaining the CLTD designation enhances your leadership capabilities within the logistics sector by keeping you updated on the latest best practices, strategies, and industry trends.

How much more can you earn with a CLTD certification?

According to ASCM, CLTD-certified professionals can earn 30 percent more than non-certified professionals [1]. As for the base salary, having logistics skills can lead to an average salary of $69,000, according to Payscale [5]. 

CLTD vs. CPIM: What's the difference?

The Certified in Planning and Inventory Management (CPIM) designation, also offered by ASCM, focuses on supply chain operations management. It differs from CLTD in the following ways:

Overall, CPIM is more focused on the production and inventory aspects of the supply chain, while CLTD encompasses a broader range of logistics, transportation, and distribution management. The choice between the two certifications depends on your career goals and the specific area of supply chain management that interests you. Neither certification requires you to pass more than one exam. 

Training for the CLTD exam

ASCM offers four training options for CLTD. These include self-study, instructor-led, instructor-supported, and corporate or group training.

1. Self-study: The self-study alternative enables you to learn independently at your convenience through the CLTD Learning System, which features interactive online learning and printed books.

2. Instructor-led: If you prefer a structured learning environment, you can participate in instructor-led classes by approved ASCM partners. Combining the Learning System with guidance from an instructor recognized by APICS, these classes allow for peer discussion and networking.

3. Instructor-supported: If you're looking for instructor support but have a schedule that doesn't fit traditional classes, consider instructor-supported online classes through Fox Valley Technical College. With one dedicated instructor for APICS’ 12-week course and no set meeting times, you have the freedom to complete assignments at your own pace while still having the option to reach out to and get guidance from your instructor.

4. Corporate and group: If your organization prefers group study, ASCM can assist you in organizing your small or large group for self-study or instructor-led classes, either at your location or in a virtual setting. 

How to maintain your CLTD certification

To maintain the validity of your APICS CLTD certification, you must accumulate 75 professional development maintenance points every five years [6]. You can earn maintenance points by participating in or giving presentations at industry-related education events, writing articles for supply chain publications, and demonstrating your involvement in organizations related to industry-specific subjects, among others. The maintenance application fee is $100 for members and $200 for nonmembers [7].

Prepare for your career with free resources

Read about industry trends and gain access to helpful career tips by subscribing to Career Chat on LinkedIn. You can also explore the following free resources as you plan for a career in logistics:

• Read our Career Chat issue: What Should You Earn: A Certificate or a Degree? 

• Take a quiz: Career Test: What Career Is Right for Me Quiz? 

• Watch on YouTube: 7 Essential Supply Chain Skills to Launch Your Career

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