How to Get FedRAMP Authorized: A Plain-English Guide

Thinking about FedRAMP? Here’s where to start.

If you’re a cloud-based software provider looking to work with the U.S. government—or already fielding security questionnaires from public sector clients—then you’ve likely heard of FedRAMP. But understanding what FedRAMP is (let alone how to get authorized) can feel overwhelming.

That’s why we’re breaking it down in plain English. No jargon. No scare tactics. Just a clear explanation of what FedRAMP is, why it matters, and how to get started.

What Is FedRAMP?

FedRAMP stands for the Federal Risk and Authorization Management Program. It’s a government-wide program that standardizes how cloud services are assessed, authorized, and continuously monitored for security.

In short: If you want to sell your cloud product to a federal agency, you’ll need FedRAMP Authorization.

Why Is FedRAMP Important?

Beyond being a requirement, FedRAMP is a trust signal. It shows that your company takes data protection seriously. It also opens the door to major government contracts, enhances your security posture, and makes it easier to work with large enterprise clients.

How to Get FedRAMP Authorized: Step-by-Step

Step 1: Know What Level You Need
FedRAMP categorizes systems into Low, Moderate, and High impact levels based on the sensitivity of the data you process. Most SaaS companies aim for Moderate.

Step 2: Conduct a Readiness Assessment
Before diving in, perform a gap analysis. A FedRAMP Readiness Assessment (RAR) helps you understand where you are today vs. what’s required. At Cadra, this is our starting point with most clients.

Step 3: Secure an Agency Sponsor
You’ll need a federal agency to sponsor your authorization. This agency will partner with you throughout the FedRAMP process and submit your package for review. Choosing the right sponsor—and aligning with their priorities—is critical to moving forward efficiently.—a selection process that evaluates your product’s government-wide demand.

Step 4: Develop Your System Security Plan (SSP)
This is your core document. It maps how your system meets each NIST 800-53 control. Writing this well—and in plain English—is key to a successful audit.

Step 5: Engage a 3PAO
A Third-Party Assessment Organization (“3PAO”) will conduct an independent audit of your environment, review your documentation, and validate your controls.

Step 6: Respond to Findings and Submit Your Package
Once you resolve any findings, your sponsor agency will review the full authorization package, and submit it to the FEdRAMP PMO. If all looks good, you receive your Authority to Operate (ATO).

Step 7: Stay Compliant
FedRAMP is not a “set it and forget it” framework. Continuous monitoring, monthly reports, and annual re-assessments are required.

How Long Does FedRAMP Take?

The process varies widely depending on your readiness and which path you take:

• Readiness assessment: 4–8 weeks
• Documentation & preparation: 8–16 weeks
• 3PAO audit: 4–12 weeks
• Authorization review: 4–12 weeks

A realistic timeline is anywhere from 6 to 12 months.

Common Roadblocks

• Confusing or incomplete documentation
• Poor internal alignment between departments
• Technical debt or missing security controls
• Miscommunication with the sponsor or 3PAO

How Cadra Helps

We support cloud companies through every stage of the FedRAMP journey—from early assessments to SSP writing, 3PAO preparation, and ongoing monitoring. Our clients say we make the process feel clear, doable, and way less stressful.

We don’t just hand you templates. We roll up our sleeves and help you build a strong, audit-ready foundation.

Next Steps

Ready to take the first step toward FedRAMP Authorization? Download our free 5-Step Roadmap or book a discovery call with our team.