Credential type: certification examination · verified on the issuer's site September 19, 2026 issuer page
Exam Domains
1 Financial Transactions and Fraud Schemes25%
2 Law25%
3 Investigation25%
4 Fraud Prevention and Deterrence25%
Exam Details
Question TypesMultiple Choice
FormatLinear (fixed-form, 4 sequential parts — Pearson VUE or online proctored)
Online ProctoringAvailable
ID RequirementsGovernment-issued photo ID required. Name on ID must match ACFE membership registration exactly.
RenewalRequired -- CFE credential requires active ACFE membership renewal every 2 years. 20 CPE hours required annually, including 10 hours in fraud-related topics. Renewal handled through ACFE member portal.
PrerequisitesACFE membership required; bachelor's degree or equivalent; 2 years fraud-related professional experience; character reference from CFE sponsor (recommended)
Retake Policy30-day waiting period between failed attempts on the same part. Each retake requires payment of the per-part retake fee. Candidates have 30 months total to pass all 4 parts after initial approval.