CERTIFIED FLOODPLAIN MANAGER (CFM)
EXAMINATION
2026/2027
Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM)
Comprehensive Floodplain Management Competency Assessment
Official Question Count: 120 Multiple-Choice Questions
Testing Time: 180 Minutes (3 Hours) | Passing Score: 70% (84/120)
Format: Computer-Based, Proctored (Pearson VUE / OnVUE)
Eligibility: 2+ Years Experience or Education/Experience Combination
Administered by: Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM)
Content Distribution:
Floodplain Management Principles (15%) | Regulatory Framework (20%)
Mapping/Risk Assessment (20%) | Development Regulations (20%)
Mitigation (15%) | Flood Insurance (10%)
, Abstract
This document presents the Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) Examination for the 2026/2027
cycle, comprising 120 multiple-choice questions aligned with the standardized competency assessment
administered by the Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM). The examination evaluates
proficiency in comprehensive floodplain management principles for certification candidates, covering
critical domains: floodplain management principles and NFIP history (18 questions), regulatory
framework and legal foundations (24 questions), flood hazard mapping and risk assessment (24
questions), floodplain development regulations and permitting (24 questions), floodproofing and
mitigation strategies (18 questions), and flood insurance administration (12 questions). Each question is
accompanied by a detailed rationale grounded in NFIP regulations (44 CFR Parts 59-78), FEMA
guidance, and ASFPM best practices. The examination requires a passing score of 70% (84/120) for CFM
certification eligibility.
Keywords: CFM; ASFPM; NFIP; 44 CFR; Floodplain Management; FIRM; Base Flood Elevation;
Substantial Damage; Flood Insurance; Mitigation
1. Introduction
The Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) Examination represents the standardized competency
assessment administered by the Association of State Floodplain Managers to evaluate proficiency in
comprehensive floodplain management principles for certification candidates. The 2026/2027 edition
reflects updates to NFIP regulations, FEMA Risk MAP products, flood insurance reform legislation, and
current best practices in floodplain management and hazard mitigation.
The examination consists of 120 multiple-choice questions distributed across six content
domains: Floodplain Management Principles and History (Q1–18), Regulatory Framework and Legal
Foundations (Q19–42), Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Assessment (Q43–66), Development
Regulations and Permitting (Q67–90), Floodproofing and Mitigation Strategies (Q91–108), and Flood
Insurance (Q109–120). Each question includes a detailed rationale in italics. A passing score of 70%
(84/120 correct) is required for CFM certification eligibility.
Candidates must have a minimum of two years of floodplain management experience or a
combination of education and experience, submit an application approved by ASFPM, pass the
examination, and agree to adhere to the ASFPM Code of Ethics. Certification requires 12 continuing
education credits every two years for renewal.
2. Examination Instructions
• This examination contains 120 multiple-choice questions. Select the single best answer for each.
• Total testing time is 180 minutes (3 hours). Pace yourself (1.5 minutes per question).
• Passing score: 70% (84/120 correct) for CFM certification eligibility.
• Content: Principles (Q1–18), Regulatory (Q19–42), Mapping (Q43–66), Permitting (Q67–90),
Mitigation (Q91–108), Insurance (Q109–120).
• Correct answers in bold green. Detailed rationales in italics follow each question.
• Computer-based, proctored format at Pearson VUE centers or via OnVUE online proctoring.
• No external materials permitted. Reference materials, notes, and electronic devices are prohibited.
,3. Floodplain Management Principles & History
Q1. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) was established by which federal
legislation?
A. Disaster Relief Act of 1974
B. National Flood Insurance Act of 1968
C. Flood Control Act of 1936
D. Water Resources Development Act of 1986
Correct Answer: B. National Flood Insurance Act of 1968
Rationale: The NFIP was created by the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (Public Law 90-448) to
provide federally backed flood insurance to communities that adopt and enforce floodplain
management regulations. The Disaster Relief Act of 1974 addressed federal disaster assistance. The
Flood Control Act of 1936 authorized federal flood control projects. The Water Resources Development
Act of 1986 addressed water resource infrastructure.
Q2. Which of the following is a primary objective of floodplain management under the
NFIP?
A. Maximizing development within the 100-year floodplain
B. Reducing loss of life and property damage from flooding through wise floodplain use and insurance
C. Eliminating all flooding events through structural controls
D. Prioritizing economic development over environmental concerns
Correct Answer: B. Reducing loss of life and property damage from flooding through wise
floodplain use and insurance
Rationale: The primary objective of floodplain management under the NFIP is to reduce loss of life and
property damage from flooding through a combination of wise floodplain land use, flood insurance, and
hazard mitigation. The program does not seek to maximize floodplain development, eliminate all
flooding (which is impossible), or prioritize development over environmental protection.
Q3. The Community Rating System (CRS) is designed to accomplish which of the following?
A. Penalize communities that do not participate in the NFIP
B. Reward communities that exceed minimum NFIP floodplain management requirements with flood
insurance premium discounts
C. Set federal flood insurance premium rates
D. Administer disaster relief payments
Correct Answer: B. Reward communities that exceed minimum NFIP floodplain
management requirements with flood insurance premium discounts
Rationale: The CRS incentivizes communities to exceed minimum NFIP requirements by offering flood
insurance premium discounts ranging from 5% to 45% based on the community's class rating (Class 1 to
Class 9). Communities earn credit points for activities in public information, mapping and regulations,
flood damage reduction, and flood preparedness. The CRS does not penalize non-participation, set
premium rates, or administer disaster relief.
Q4. The NFIP was significantly reformed by the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973.
Which key provision was introduced?
A. Mandatory flood insurance purchase requirement for properties in SFHAs with federally backed
mortgages
B. Elimination of all flood insurance subsidies
C. Creation of the Community Rating System
D. Establishment of the Risk MAP program
Correct Answer: A. Mandatory flood insurance purchase requirement for properties in
SFHAs with federally backed mortgages
Rationale: The Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 introduced the mandatory flood insurance
purchase requirement for properties located in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) with federally
backed mortgages, making participation a condition for federal financial assistance. The CRS was
created in 1990, Risk MAP began in 2009, and subsidy reforms came with later legislation.
, Q5. Which concept describes the integrated approach to floodplain management that
balances public safety, risk reduction, and environmental protection?
A. Command-and-control regulation
B. No Adverse Impact (NAI) floodplain management
C. Maximum development yield management
D. Single-objective flood control
Correct Answer: B. No Adverse Impact (NAI) floodplain management
Rationale: No Adverse Impact (NAI) floodplain management is a approach developed by ASFPM that
ensures the actions of one community or property owner do not adversely affect the flood risk of other
properties or communities. It integrates public safety, risk reduction, and environmental protection into
a comprehensive framework. It contrasts with single-objective flood control and command-and-control
approaches that do not account for cross-jurisdictional impacts.
Q6. The National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994 established which of the following?
A. The Community Rating System
B. Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) coverage and grant programs for mitigation
C. The National Flood Insurance Act itself
D. The Federal Emergency Management Agency
Correct Answer: B. Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) coverage and grant programs for
mitigation
Rationale: The National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994 established Increased Cost of Compliance
(ICC) coverage, which provides up to $30,000 (later increased) to help policyholders cover the cost of
bringing damaged structures into compliance with floodplain management ordinances after a flood. It
also created the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant program. The CRS predates 1994, the NFIP
was created in 1968, and FEMA was established in 1979.
Q7. Which of the following best defines the concept of 'integrated floodplain management'?
A. Using only structural measures such as dams and levees to control flooding
B. A comprehensive approach combining structural and non-structural measures, land use planning,
insurance, and environmental stewardship to reduce flood losses and preserve natural floodplain
functions
C. Relying exclusively on flood insurance to manage flood risk
D. Delegating all floodplain decisions to federal agencies
Correct Answer: B. A comprehensive approach combining structural and non-structural
measures, land use planning, insurance, and environmental stewardship to reduce flood
losses and preserve natural floodplain functions
Rationale: Integrated floodplain management combines structural measures (dams, levees, floodwalls)
with non-structural approaches (regulations, insurance, acquisition, elevation), land use planning, and
environmental stewardship. This holistic strategy recognizes that no single approach can eliminate
flood risk and that preserving natural floodplain functions (water storage, habitat, water quality) is
essential. Relying solely on structural controls, insurance, or federal delegation is insufficient.
Q8. Under the NFIP, what is the definition of a 'community'?
A. Any group of homeowners in a flood zone
B. Any state, area, or political subdivision thereof, or Indian tribe or authorized tribal organization that
has the authority to adopt and enforce floodplain management regulations for the area within its
jurisdiction
C. Only incorporated cities with populations over 10,000
D. Federal emergency management zones
Correct Answer: B. Any state, area, or political subdivision thereof, or Indian tribe or
authorized tribal organization that has the authority to adopt and enforce floodplain
management regulations for the area within its jurisdiction
Rationale: Per 44 CFR 59.1, a community is defined as any state, area, or political subdivision, or
Indian tribe or authorized tribal organization, having the authority to adopt and enforce floodplain
EXAMINATION
2026/2027
Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM)
Comprehensive Floodplain Management Competency Assessment
Official Question Count: 120 Multiple-Choice Questions
Testing Time: 180 Minutes (3 Hours) | Passing Score: 70% (84/120)
Format: Computer-Based, Proctored (Pearson VUE / OnVUE)
Eligibility: 2+ Years Experience or Education/Experience Combination
Administered by: Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM)
Content Distribution:
Floodplain Management Principles (15%) | Regulatory Framework (20%)
Mapping/Risk Assessment (20%) | Development Regulations (20%)
Mitigation (15%) | Flood Insurance (10%)
, Abstract
This document presents the Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) Examination for the 2026/2027
cycle, comprising 120 multiple-choice questions aligned with the standardized competency assessment
administered by the Association of State Floodplain Managers (ASFPM). The examination evaluates
proficiency in comprehensive floodplain management principles for certification candidates, covering
critical domains: floodplain management principles and NFIP history (18 questions), regulatory
framework and legal foundations (24 questions), flood hazard mapping and risk assessment (24
questions), floodplain development regulations and permitting (24 questions), floodproofing and
mitigation strategies (18 questions), and flood insurance administration (12 questions). Each question is
accompanied by a detailed rationale grounded in NFIP regulations (44 CFR Parts 59-78), FEMA
guidance, and ASFPM best practices. The examination requires a passing score of 70% (84/120) for CFM
certification eligibility.
Keywords: CFM; ASFPM; NFIP; 44 CFR; Floodplain Management; FIRM; Base Flood Elevation;
Substantial Damage; Flood Insurance; Mitigation
1. Introduction
The Certified Floodplain Manager (CFM) Examination represents the standardized competency
assessment administered by the Association of State Floodplain Managers to evaluate proficiency in
comprehensive floodplain management principles for certification candidates. The 2026/2027 edition
reflects updates to NFIP regulations, FEMA Risk MAP products, flood insurance reform legislation, and
current best practices in floodplain management and hazard mitigation.
The examination consists of 120 multiple-choice questions distributed across six content
domains: Floodplain Management Principles and History (Q1–18), Regulatory Framework and Legal
Foundations (Q19–42), Flood Hazard Mapping and Risk Assessment (Q43–66), Development
Regulations and Permitting (Q67–90), Floodproofing and Mitigation Strategies (Q91–108), and Flood
Insurance (Q109–120). Each question includes a detailed rationale in italics. A passing score of 70%
(84/120 correct) is required for CFM certification eligibility.
Candidates must have a minimum of two years of floodplain management experience or a
combination of education and experience, submit an application approved by ASFPM, pass the
examination, and agree to adhere to the ASFPM Code of Ethics. Certification requires 12 continuing
education credits every two years for renewal.
2. Examination Instructions
• This examination contains 120 multiple-choice questions. Select the single best answer for each.
• Total testing time is 180 minutes (3 hours). Pace yourself (1.5 minutes per question).
• Passing score: 70% (84/120 correct) for CFM certification eligibility.
• Content: Principles (Q1–18), Regulatory (Q19–42), Mapping (Q43–66), Permitting (Q67–90),
Mitigation (Q91–108), Insurance (Q109–120).
• Correct answers in bold green. Detailed rationales in italics follow each question.
• Computer-based, proctored format at Pearson VUE centers or via OnVUE online proctoring.
• No external materials permitted. Reference materials, notes, and electronic devices are prohibited.
,3. Floodplain Management Principles & History
Q1. The National Flood Insurance Program (NFIP) was established by which federal
legislation?
A. Disaster Relief Act of 1974
B. National Flood Insurance Act of 1968
C. Flood Control Act of 1936
D. Water Resources Development Act of 1986
Correct Answer: B. National Flood Insurance Act of 1968
Rationale: The NFIP was created by the National Flood Insurance Act of 1968 (Public Law 90-448) to
provide federally backed flood insurance to communities that adopt and enforce floodplain
management regulations. The Disaster Relief Act of 1974 addressed federal disaster assistance. The
Flood Control Act of 1936 authorized federal flood control projects. The Water Resources Development
Act of 1986 addressed water resource infrastructure.
Q2. Which of the following is a primary objective of floodplain management under the
NFIP?
A. Maximizing development within the 100-year floodplain
B. Reducing loss of life and property damage from flooding through wise floodplain use and insurance
C. Eliminating all flooding events through structural controls
D. Prioritizing economic development over environmental concerns
Correct Answer: B. Reducing loss of life and property damage from flooding through wise
floodplain use and insurance
Rationale: The primary objective of floodplain management under the NFIP is to reduce loss of life and
property damage from flooding through a combination of wise floodplain land use, flood insurance, and
hazard mitigation. The program does not seek to maximize floodplain development, eliminate all
flooding (which is impossible), or prioritize development over environmental protection.
Q3. The Community Rating System (CRS) is designed to accomplish which of the following?
A. Penalize communities that do not participate in the NFIP
B. Reward communities that exceed minimum NFIP floodplain management requirements with flood
insurance premium discounts
C. Set federal flood insurance premium rates
D. Administer disaster relief payments
Correct Answer: B. Reward communities that exceed minimum NFIP floodplain
management requirements with flood insurance premium discounts
Rationale: The CRS incentivizes communities to exceed minimum NFIP requirements by offering flood
insurance premium discounts ranging from 5% to 45% based on the community's class rating (Class 1 to
Class 9). Communities earn credit points for activities in public information, mapping and regulations,
flood damage reduction, and flood preparedness. The CRS does not penalize non-participation, set
premium rates, or administer disaster relief.
Q4. The NFIP was significantly reformed by the Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973.
Which key provision was introduced?
A. Mandatory flood insurance purchase requirement for properties in SFHAs with federally backed
mortgages
B. Elimination of all flood insurance subsidies
C. Creation of the Community Rating System
D. Establishment of the Risk MAP program
Correct Answer: A. Mandatory flood insurance purchase requirement for properties in
SFHAs with federally backed mortgages
Rationale: The Flood Disaster Protection Act of 1973 introduced the mandatory flood insurance
purchase requirement for properties located in Special Flood Hazard Areas (SFHAs) with federally
backed mortgages, making participation a condition for federal financial assistance. The CRS was
created in 1990, Risk MAP began in 2009, and subsidy reforms came with later legislation.
, Q5. Which concept describes the integrated approach to floodplain management that
balances public safety, risk reduction, and environmental protection?
A. Command-and-control regulation
B. No Adverse Impact (NAI) floodplain management
C. Maximum development yield management
D. Single-objective flood control
Correct Answer: B. No Adverse Impact (NAI) floodplain management
Rationale: No Adverse Impact (NAI) floodplain management is a approach developed by ASFPM that
ensures the actions of one community or property owner do not adversely affect the flood risk of other
properties or communities. It integrates public safety, risk reduction, and environmental protection into
a comprehensive framework. It contrasts with single-objective flood control and command-and-control
approaches that do not account for cross-jurisdictional impacts.
Q6. The National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994 established which of the following?
A. The Community Rating System
B. Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) coverage and grant programs for mitigation
C. The National Flood Insurance Act itself
D. The Federal Emergency Management Agency
Correct Answer: B. Increased Cost of Compliance (ICC) coverage and grant programs for
mitigation
Rationale: The National Flood Insurance Reform Act of 1994 established Increased Cost of Compliance
(ICC) coverage, which provides up to $30,000 (later increased) to help policyholders cover the cost of
bringing damaged structures into compliance with floodplain management ordinances after a flood. It
also created the Flood Mitigation Assistance (FMA) grant program. The CRS predates 1994, the NFIP
was created in 1968, and FEMA was established in 1979.
Q7. Which of the following best defines the concept of 'integrated floodplain management'?
A. Using only structural measures such as dams and levees to control flooding
B. A comprehensive approach combining structural and non-structural measures, land use planning,
insurance, and environmental stewardship to reduce flood losses and preserve natural floodplain
functions
C. Relying exclusively on flood insurance to manage flood risk
D. Delegating all floodplain decisions to federal agencies
Correct Answer: B. A comprehensive approach combining structural and non-structural
measures, land use planning, insurance, and environmental stewardship to reduce flood
losses and preserve natural floodplain functions
Rationale: Integrated floodplain management combines structural measures (dams, levees, floodwalls)
with non-structural approaches (regulations, insurance, acquisition, elevation), land use planning, and
environmental stewardship. This holistic strategy recognizes that no single approach can eliminate
flood risk and that preserving natural floodplain functions (water storage, habitat, water quality) is
essential. Relying solely on structural controls, insurance, or federal delegation is insufficient.
Q8. Under the NFIP, what is the definition of a 'community'?
A. Any group of homeowners in a flood zone
B. Any state, area, or political subdivision thereof, or Indian tribe or authorized tribal organization that
has the authority to adopt and enforce floodplain management regulations for the area within its
jurisdiction
C. Only incorporated cities with populations over 10,000
D. Federal emergency management zones
Correct Answer: B. Any state, area, or political subdivision thereof, or Indian tribe or
authorized tribal organization that has the authority to adopt and enforce floodplain
management regulations for the area within its jurisdiction
Rationale: Per 44 CFR 59.1, a community is defined as any state, area, or political subdivision, or
Indian tribe or authorized tribal organization, having the authority to adopt and enforce floodplain
