Getting certified is an important milestone in every professional’s career. It serves as proof of the professional’s proficiency in the subject matter and of dedication to continually improving and keeping up with the ever-changing conditions of the industry.
The Importance of Recertification
There is a common misconception that professionalism can be demonstrated solely through certifications. A certificate remains a piece of paper unless individuals actively participate in activities that utilize and hone the skills gained during training and certification. In today’s environment, professionals must demonstrate their ongoing commitment to excellence through continuous improvement.
Recertification serves as a testament to this commitment, ensuring that professionals have engaged in subject-related activities and acquired valuable experience. To maintain the highest quality and credibility, PECB has specific requirements that professionals must meet to retain certification, the main requirements being Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points.
What is Continuing Professional Development (CPD)
CPD is a portfolio for demonstrating, documenting, and tracking the skills, knowledge, and experience acquired by professionals after their certification.
PECB certifications are valid for three years; during these years, the certified individuals are required to demonstrate their professionalism and commitment to continuing improvement by gaining experience in the subject matter. The professional experience gained is measured in Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points.
How to Get CPD Points?
CPD points are earned through participation in certification-related activities, including webinar sessions, article writing, project involvement, auditing, and implementing these activities. These activities contribute to the individual’s professional experience, thereby accumulating CPDs.
PECB’s certificate maintenance program requires professionals to reach a set number of CPDs in order for them to retain the certification. The certified professionals are expected to reach the CPD quota within 3 years; there is no set requirement for the timeline through which the CPDs are acquired. They can be acquired slowly throughout the years, or the entire quota can be reached in a year.
How to Maintain Your PECB Certification?
To maintain PECB certification, you have to adhere to the PECB Code of Ethics, accumulate the required number of CPD points in the three-year period in which the certification is valid, and pay an Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF) of $120, which is valid for all certifications except for Foundation, Provisional, and Transition certificates, which have no fees. The first year’s AMF is included in the payment for the certification application.
What Happens If You Don’t Recertify?
Certification maintenance is a cornerstone of credibility and trustworthiness. Recertification is not solely a matter of paperwork, but a testament to the individual’s professional growth and experience. There are various circumstances under which a credential can be downgraded or even nullified, including cases where:
- The CPD points have not been submitted, or the CPD quota has not been reached
- The annual maintenance fee has not been paid
- The PECB Code of Ethics has been breached
Recertification is not only a formality but the key to staying relevant, competitive, and trusted in your industry. Start gathering your CPD points and keep your professional advantage with PECB.
For more information, please check the Certification Maintenance Policy or contact certification@pecb.com.
Author:
Albion Beqaj is a Content Editing Specialist in the PECB Marketing Department. He is responsible for evaluating the written material, ensuring its accuracy and suitability for the target audience, and ensuring that the material meets PECB standards. If you have any questions, feel free to contact us at support@pecb.com.
