Pilotcore

Your Free CMMC Level 1 Validation Guide

Don't risk losing DoD contracts. Get the exact roadmap defense contractors need to validate Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) Level 1 compliance in 2025.

Note: CMMC Level 1 self-assessments start appearing in DoD contract solicitations during Phase 1 of the official rollout--beginning early 2025 and expanding through 2026. To remain eligible, contractors must prove Level 1 compliance as soon as it appears in their contracts.

All 17 CMMC Level 1 practices explained with validation criteria
Common pitfalls that cause many organizations to fail their first attempt
Red flags assessors look for (and how to avoid them)
Clear implementation guidance for each requirement
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IMPORTANT: Level 1 is the foundation for all CMMC levels and will be verified during Level 2 & 3 assessments. Our guide helps ensure you get it right the first time.

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↓ See what's inside the guide below ↓

Build Your CMMC Foundation Right

Level 1 isn't just a checkbox--it's the foundation that all higher levels build upon. Getting it right protects your business and ensures smooth progression through CMMC levels.

Foundation First

Level 2 & 3 assessments verify your Level 1 implementation

Contract Ready

Meet DoD requirements with confidence

Peace of Mind

Know your compliance is thorough and accurate

Our guide provides the clarity and confidence you need for proper Level 1 implementation

What You'll Get Instant Access To:

The 15 Requirements: Complete Breakdown

  • • All 15 FAR 52.204-21 requirements from the authoritative list
  • • "What It Really Means" plain-English translations
  • • "How to Validate" specific test procedures
  • • Highlighted commonly misunderstood requirements

Common Failures & Red Flags

  • • Common failures that kill attestations
  • • Red flags showing you're not ready
  • • Real cost of getting it wrong (False Claims Act penalties)
  • • When DIY becomes dangerous

Scope & Validation Framework

  • • Understanding your assessment scope
  • • Determining system boundaries correctly
  • • Complete validation framework explained
  • • 6-section testing methodology

Your Step-by-Step Action Plan

  • • Clear implementation roadmap
  • • Priority-based compliance checklist
  • • When to seek expert help vs DIY
  • • Next steps after guide completion

Why Level 1 Matters for ALL DoD Contractors

CMMC Level 1 is required for ANY DoD contract handling Federal Contract Information (FCI). Level 1 requires self-attestation with annual assessment of all 15 requirements from FAR 52.204-21. Inaccurate attestations may expose contractors to potential False Claims Act penalties (which can be substantial) plus contract loss. This guide ensures you understand what "compliant" actually means before you attest.

What happens after you submit

5-Day Follow-Up That Helps You Brief Leadership

Every download automatically receives this short sequence so you can move from “we should do CMMC” to “here's the exact plan”.

Day 0

Guide + 17-practice checklist

  • • Download link and editable spreadsheet for all 17 practices.
  • • Scope worksheet for single vs. multi-site environments.
  • • Quick brief you can forward to contracts/procurement.

Day 2

Pitfalls & audit red flags

  • • Top self-attestation mistakes that trigger False Claims risk.
  • • Evidence examples for each practice (screenshots + policies).
  • • Supply-chain letter template for primes/subs.

Day 5

Executive readiness packet

  • • Budget & timeline ranges for Level 1 + Level 2 planning.
  • • FAQ for CEO, CFO, and InfoSec stakeholders.
  • • Invite to a 60-min readiness review if you need help.

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