Step 1: Understand the “CA” Domain – Security AssessmentTheCA (Security Assessment)domain includes practices related to:

Planning security assessments,

Performing periodic reviews,

Managing plans of action and milestones (POA&Ms).

These practices derive fromNIST SP 800-171, specifically:

CA.2.157– Develop, document, and periodically update security plans,

CA.2.158– Periodically assess security controls,

CA.2.159– Develop and implement POA&Ms.

Level 1 (Foundational):

Implements only the17 practicesfromFAR 52.204-21

Doesnot include the CA domain

Level 2 (Advanced):

Implements110 practicesfromNIST SP 800-171, including CA.2.157–159

First levelwhereSecurity Assessment (CA)practices are required

Level 3:

Not yet finalized but intended to include selected controls fromNIST SP 800-172

✅Step 2: Review CMMC Levels

A. Level 1✘ No CA domain practices are present at Level 1.

C. Level 3 / D. Level 4✘ These levels build on CA practices but do not represent thestarting point.

❌Why the Other Options Are Incorrect

TheSecurity Assessment (CA)domain practices begin atCMMC Level 2, as part of the implementation ofNIST SP 800-171.