Continuing Certification Requirements
The Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR) program is PMI’s framework that defines how credential holders maintain their certifications through ongoing professional development and renewal fees.
Explanation
The CCR program ensures that PMI credential holders remain current in their knowledge and skills throughout their careers. The program establishes the cycle length, PDU requirements, and renewal process for each certification. For PMP holders, the cycle is three years with a 60-PDU requirement. For CAPM holders, the cycle is three years with a 15-PDU requirement. A renewal fee must also be paid at the end of each cycle.
The CCR program uses the CCRS (Continuing Certification Requirements System), an online platform where credential holders report PDUs, track their progress, and complete their renewal. PMI conducts random audits to verify that reported PDUs represent legitimate professional development activities. Practitioners must maintain records that support their claimed PDUs.
Understanding the CCR program is part of professional responsibility. Falsely reporting PDUs or failing to maintain your credential while still representing yourself as certified are violations of the PMI Code of Ethics. The exam may include questions about the CCR program as part of broader professional responsibility scenarios.
Key Points
- •Defines cycle length, PDU requirements, and renewal process for each credential
- •PMP: 3-year cycle, 60 PDUs, plus renewal fee
- •CAPM: 3-year cycle, 15 PDUs, plus renewal fee
- •Random audits verify legitimacy of reported PDUs
Exam Tip
Know the specific cycle lengths and PDU requirements for PMP and CAPM. Also remember that falsely claiming PDUs is an ethical violation, not just an administrative one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Related Topics
Professional Development (PDUs)
Professional Development Units (PDUs) are one-hour blocks of structured learning or professional activity that PMI credential holders must earn to maintain their certifications and demonstrate ongoing competence.
Responsibility (Ethical Principle)
Responsibility is the PMI ethical principle requiring practitioners to take ownership of decisions, actions, and their consequences, and to act in the best interests of society, public safety, and the environment.
PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct
The PMI Code of Ethics and Professional Conduct is a foundational document that establishes the ethical expectations and behavioral standards for all PMI members, volunteers, and certification holders.
Test your knowledge
Practice scenario-based questions on this topic with detailed explanations.