DBITDefenseCMMC Level 2 · Readiness
Program · Rollout · March 20, 2026

CMMC phased rollout: Phase 1 through Phase 4.

DoD has published a four-phase rollout schedule for CMMC, beginning when the DFARS implementation rule becomes effective and ramping over three years. The phase descriptions below are summarized from DoD CIO program materials.

Published March 20, 2026South Florida · Palm Beach · Broward · Miami-Dade
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Program
Citations
3
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Plain summary
Original
no control interpretation
No. 01

Summary and dates.

The four phases

Phase 1 — 10 Nov 2025
DoD begins requiring Level 1 and Level 2 self-assessments in applicable contracts. Kicked off by the effective date of DFARS 252.204-7021.
DoD CIO CMMC About page
Phase 2 — 10 Nov 2026
DoD begins requiring Level 2 certification assessments conducted by authorized C3PAOs in applicable contracts.
DoD CIO CMMC About page
Phase 3 — 10 Nov 2027
DoD begins requiring Level 3 certification assessments where applicable. Level 3 assessments are government-led.
DoD CIO CMMC About page
Phase 4 — 10 Nov 2028
Full implementation: CMMC level requirements appear in all applicable DoD contracts and solicitations.
DoD CIO CMMC About page

Practical reading

Phase numbering is keyed off the 10 November 2025 effective date of the implementing DFARS amendment (DFARS 252.204-7021). Each subsequent phase begins one year after the prior, with full implementation arriving on 10 November 2028.

Specific contract requirements vary by program office and prime-contractor flowdown. Contractors should not assume that absence of CMMC language in a current solicitation means absence in the next one.

No. 02

Sources and citations.

Primary references

DBIT Defense does not interpret control intent or republish substantive control text. All claims above link to primary sources for verification.

No. 03

Related insights.

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