Infographic

FedRAMP Class A Explained

The Fastest Way for Cloud Providers to Enter the Federal Market

August 25, 2026
Ferd RAMP Infographic Feature Image

A practical breakdown of FedRAMP 20x’s lightest certification class — and how to tell if it’s your right first move.

See the full qualification checklist, the four-step certification path, and whether Class A is the right first move for your federal go-to-market strategy.

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FedRAMP Class A is the entry-level certification class under FedRAMP 20x, built for cloud service providers pursuing civilian federal customers without an agency sponsor. This infographic is for compliance and security leaders at cloud providers evaluating their federal market entry options. It explains who already qualifies, what the certification path requires, and how long Class A lasts before a provider needs to move to a higher class.

Three key takeaways:

  • No agency sponsor is required — Class A uses Program Certification and can reuse evidence from recent FedRAMP Rev. 5/Ready, SOC 2 Type II, or GovRAMP certifications.
  • The path has four steps: qualify, close gaps, assemble the package, and publish.
  • Class A is a two-year bridge; providers should plan their move to Class B, C, or D early.

Need more help with your pathway?

Have specific questions about your existing assessment or your path to Class B, C, or D? Contact Coalfire’s FedRAMP team for a strategy conversation.

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