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FedRAMP Class A is an introductory path to FedRAMP Authorization that doesn’t require an agency sponsor. If you already have a SOC 2 Type II, we can turn it into FedRAMP Class A in 90 days.
We need to get FedRAMP authorization, but…
FedRAMP Class A can use your SOC 2 to make getting started easier, but it’s not the only thing. Use a FedRAMP expert to meet Class A’s 23 additional rules.
Get your SOC 2 Type II with Fractional CISO first. Then, use your SOC 2 as the foundation of your Class A certification. FedRAMP Class A makes SOC 2 the fastest and most affordably onramp to FedRAMP authorization.
Partner with seasoned FedRAMP specialists who help you efficiently move through your tailored roadmap, only pulling you in when necessary. This leaves you and your team free to focus on core responsibilities, ensuring you reach authorization as quickly and painlessly as possible.
FedRAMP Class A is the introductory tier of FedRAMP’s four certification levels (A, B, C, and D). It was introduced in June 2026 to create an easier path for companies to enter the program. It differs from previous versions of FedRAMP in that it doesn’t require an existing federal agency sponsor as a prerequisite for authorization.
FedRAMP Class A allows companies to put together a FedRAMP compliance package built upon their existing SOC 2 Type II report. This is a significant difference from previous FedRAMP versions, which required an entirely bespoke compliance program and documentation to comply. Another option for companies interested in pursuing FedRAMP is to now pursue their SOC 2 Type II first, then get FedRAMP Class A on the back of that effort.
After a company earns FedRAMP Class A, they have two years to transition to a a Class B, C, or D certification.
Partner with U.S.-based, experienced FedRAMP consultants who won’t just give you a checklist and leave you to it. Instead, we work closely with you and your team to ensure you have a clear roadmap to authorization, know how to document controls and evidence, and coordinate with assessors so you’re not navigating this complex process alone.
Get our risk-optimized approach built into our consulting process so that each step we take is driven by calculating prioritization. This way, we’ll help you see which controls matter most, what gaps need to be addressed first, and commit to using your time and effort for the biggest possible impact, not based on guesswork, but actual data.
Streamline your efforts and reduce duplicate work by aligning your FedRAMP program with other frameworks, such as SOC 2, StateRAMP, and ISO 27001. We’ll help you reuse evidence, streamline documentation, and reduce cost and complexity.
Fractional CISO turns an existing or new SOC 2 Type II into a FedRAMP Class A by translating the high-quality information about your cybersecurity program from the report into the machine readable compliance package FedRAMP requires. However, no existing SOC 2 Type II program covers 100% of FedRAMP’s requirements. Fractional CISO works in parallel to implement additional policies and processes needed to comply, and guides you through the assessment process.
Consultants act as an extension of your team and do the heavy lifting to guide you through a plan that stands up to federal scrutiny. These responsibilities include:
Even if you don’t have an existing SOC 2 Type II, it’s likely still the easiest way to get FedRAMP Class A. Fractional CISO will first build and implement a SOC 2 compliance program. Once you have your SOC 2 Type II report, then we will build on it to get the FedRAMP Class A certification.
However, the work required to get SOC 2 Type II from nothing will take six months at minimum, possibly up to 18.
Class A | Class B | Class C | Class D | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Assessment | FedRAMP first-party review. | Independent, third-party assessor. | Independent, third-party assessor. | Independent, third-party assessor. |
Time Required | 90 days, if existing SOC 2 Type II report is good. Longer if new or updated SOC 2 is required. | ~12-18 Months. | ~18–24 months.
| 24+ months. |
Who it’s For | First-time entrants, pilots, and negligible-risk workloads | Non-sensitive federal data; most Low-impact agency systems
| CUI and most Moderate-impact systems — the common landing spot for commercial SaaS
| Mission-critical work: law enforcement, health, emergency services
|
Key Security Requirements | Existing SOC 2 controls, plus a few additional FedRAMP communication and reporting requirements. Expires after 2 years. | Low baseline, ~165 controls. Continuous monitoring. | Moderate baseline, ~320 controls. Monthly scanning and quarterly agency reviews. | High baseline, ~410 controls. Intense evidence and monitoring commitments required. |
Don’t just take our word for it, read our case study about how we helped WayPath Consulting become SOC 2 compliant:
CTO of WayPath Consulting
Fractional CISO has enabled us to showcase best-in-class security, putting us on-par with firms much larger in employee count. They allow me to re-invest time previously spent on day-to-day management into growing and improving our business.”
Most organizations need 8-18 months to get their FedRAMP ATO, but this will vary based on maturity, resources, and existing security programs. Consultants help reduce delays and keep you on schedule.
A 3PAO is an accredited and authorized party that performs the official assessment and provides findings. A FedRAMP consultant prepares you for this assessment by helping build your program, implement controls, close gaps, prepare evidence, and ensure you meet 3PAO expectations.
By partnering with Fractional CISO, you get the added benefit of ongoing maintenance beyond the authorization, so that you stay compliant for years to come (and as the program evolves).
All it takes is a 30-minute call to assess your current security program and create a detailed timeline for your road to preparing for your 3PAO assessment. If you’re ready to confidently seek FedRAMP authorization, we’ll be your expert consultants to guide you every step of the way.
Only 1/3 of cyber insurance policies actually pay out in incidents. Most companies have cyber insurance policies that insure too little, or too much, and have absurdly low caps and silly exclusions.
To learn more about cyber insurance and determine if you have the right coverage for you, join us for a free vCISO Office Hours session on Tuesday, April 18 at 1 p.m. eastern time. Bring your questions!
Getting ready for your first SOC 2? This eBook is full of actionable advice to help you prepare for and succeed in your first SOC 2 audit.
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