Introduction :-
The ITIL 4 Foundation certification is a valuable credential for professionals in IT service management, showcasing their understanding of modern ITIL practices and principles. As technology and IT management practices evolve, it’s essential for professionals to stay up-to-date, which often means renewing certifications. For ITIL 4 Foundation holders, renewal ensures that their knowledge aligns with current industry standards and best practices. If you’re wondering how to go about renewing your ITIL 4 Foundation certification, this guide will walk you through the entire process.
1. Understand the ITIL Certification Renewal Policy
Axelos, the accrediting body for ITIL certifications, introduced a Continuing Professional Development (CPD) model for renewals. While some professional certifications do not have an expiration date, ITIL certifications now encourage renewal every three years. This policy helps maintain relevance in a rapidly evolving field, ensuring that certification holders stay current with ITIL updates and advances in IT service management.
2. Choose a Renewal Path
To renew your ITIL 4 Foundation certification, you have two main options:
– Option 1: Earn ITIL Digital Badges
Axelos offers a system of digital badges for ITIL certification holders. By accumulating a certain number of points through these badges, you can fulfill the renewal requirements. To qualify for renewal, you need to accumulate 20 CPD points each year, which you track over the three-year renewal period, totaling 60 points by the time of renewal.
Digital badges are earned through professional activities, which include online learning, completing ITIL modules, or attending webinars and events related to IT service management.
– Option 2: Retake the ITIL 4 Foundation Exam
Another option for renewing your certification is to retake the ITIL 4 Foundation exam. This is ideal for professionals who want to refresh their foundational knowledge from scratch and demonstrate updated skills in ITIL principles. Although not commonly chosen, this path allows you to complete your renewal in a single step.
3. Accumulate CPD Points
If you’ve chosen to renew by earning CPD points, it’s important to know the different activities that qualify:
– Attending Approved Training Programs
Axelos and its accredited partners offer training programs that count toward CPD points. These can include specialized ITIL courses, such as ITIL Managing Professional (MP) or ITIL Strategic Leader (SL) modules.
– Participating in Webinars and Events
Many industry webinars, workshops, and conferences approved by Axelos also qualify for CPD points. These activities not only count toward your renewal but provide valuable insights into industry trends and updates.
– Self-Directed Learning
Self-study, such as reading ITIL guides, watching online tutorials, and completing exercises, also counts toward your CPD points. Just make sure that your activities align with ITIL’s core principles and objectives to qualify.
After accumulating enough points each year, you can report them via the MyAxelos portal, which simplifies tracking and helps you stay on top of your progress toward renewal.
4. Log Your CPD Points in MyAxelos
MyAxelos is a dedicated platform where certification holders can log and monitor their CPD points. Here’s how to use it:
– Set Up Your Account
If you haven’t done so already, create an account on MyAxelos and link your ITIL certification. This will allow you to record your CPD activities and track your progress toward renewal.
– Record CPD Activities
After each qualifying activity, log it in MyAxelos by adding details like the type of activity, date, and the number of CPD points earned. Keeping up with this step throughout the three-year period makes the renewal process smoother and more manageable.
– Submit for Renewal
Once you’ve accumulated 60 points over three years, submit your completed record for renewal approval through MyAxelos. This final submission officially renews your certification.
5. Pay the Renewal Fee
Axelos requires a renewal fee to maintain your ITIL certification status. This fee may vary, so it’s a good idea to check the current rate on the Axelos website or the MyAxelos portal. Paying this fee is the last step in the renewal process and is essential for receiving your updated certification.
6. Stay Current with ITIL Updates
Beyond earning CPD points or retaking the exam, ITIL professionals are encouraged to stay informed about updates in ITIL frameworks and practices. Reading Axelos publications, joining ITIL communities, and following industry news help keep your skills sharp and ensure you’re ready to apply ITIL practices effectively.
Conclusion
Renewing your ITIL 4 Foundation certification is straightforward when you understand the process and requirements. Whether you choose to accumulate CPD points or retake the exam, Axelos’ renewal structure encourages professionals to stay current and relevant in IT service management. By following these steps—earning CPD points, logging them in MyAxelos, and submitting for renewal—you can maintain your ITIL certification and continue advancing in your career with up-to-date expertise in ITIL best practices.
