Level 2 · Media Protection
MP.L2-3.8.4
Media Markings
Marking should reflect the applicable CUI category and distribution limits on the media actually used.
Official reference
The requirement
Mark media with necessary CUI markings and distribution limitations.
DoD CMMC Assessment Guide, Level 2, version 2.13. MP.L2-3.8.4; requirement and objectives, printed page 163 ↗
Assessment objectives
What must be established
Determine if each applicable objective is satisfied. The labels below follow the cited DoD assessment guide.
- [a]
media containing CUI is marked with applicable CUI markings; and
CAP location planning flagged ↓ - [b]
media containing CUI is marked with distribution limitations.
CAP location planning flagged ↓
MET requires evidence that all applicable objectives are satisfied. Final, approved evidence is needed. A NOT APPLICABLE determination needs a scope-based basis and is equivalent to MET for scoring. Enduring exceptions and temporary deficiencies have specific conditions under 32 CFR 170.24; they are not a general permission to defer implementation.
GAVII Cybersecurity assessment approach
Connect the objective to the evidence
Check paper and digital examples against the governing handling instructions. A generic CUI label does not resolve every category-specific or distribution constraint.
Assessment focus: objectives [a], [b]. Use the methods together; a single example does not establish every objective.
Examine
Inspect applicable marking guidance, sample sanitized media, handling procedures, and staff instructions.
Interview
Who determines the correct marking and distribution limitation when information is received or produced?
Demonstrate or test
Use a fictional example to demonstrate marking of the relevant media types and discuss the observation method for assessment.
Evidence gaps to look for
- Markings appear on a cover page but not where handling requires them.
- Distribution limits are assumed from a generic template.
GAVII Cybersecurity’s examples illustrate ways to examine, interview, and test. They are not a mandatory artifact list or a guarantee of an assessment result. Combine methods and address every applicable objective in the actual scope.
Assessment constraints
Scoring and POA&M eligibility
Score: 1
If this requirement is NOT MET, deduct 1 point from the Level 2 maximum of 110. The deduction applies to the requirement, not separately to each objective.
Scoring rule ↗POA&M: Eligible
Potentially eligible only if all Conditional Level 2 criteria are satisfied, including a score of at least 88 out of 110 and timely closeout. Eligibility is not a finding that this requirement is MET.
POA&M rule ↗Conditional Level 2 requires a score of at least 88 out of 110 and satisfaction of every eligibility condition. A 1-point requirement is not automatically eligible. The permitted POA&M must be closed through the appropriate closeout assessment within 180 days of the Conditional CMMC Status Date. An operational remediation plan does not confer Conditional Status.
Assessment planning
Location and observation
Location planning flagged
CAP P.11 specifically highlights the marked objectives for assessment-location planning. Agree with the C3PAO how the environment can be adequately observed, including any scope-specific need for on-site activity. These markers do not establish a universal in-person requirement.
CAP §P.11, pages 10–11 ↗Check the source
References and related requirements
- DoD CMMC Assessment Guide, Level 2 ↗MP.L2-3.8.4; requirement and objectives, printed page 163. 2.13, September 2024.
- 32 CFR 170.24: Assessment findings and scoring ↗170.24(b) and (c)(2). Current electronic Code of Federal Regulations.
- 32 CFR 170.21: POA&M eligibility and closeout ↗170.21(a)(2) and (b). Current electronic Code of Federal Regulations.
- NIST SP 800-171 Rev. 2 ↗Requirement 3.8.4. February 2020, updated January 2021.
- NIST SP 800-171A ↗Assessment procedure 3.8.4. June 2018.
- Cyber AB CMMC Assessment Process (CAP) ↗P.11, printed pages 10-11; Level 2 certification assessment-location planning. 2.0, December 2024.
Program timing and contract applicability can change independently of these requirements. Check current DoD program notices and your solicitation or contract before making a compliance decision. Open the official DoD resource hub.