Earning and Reporting PDUs

Keeping your PMI certifications active requires earning Professional Development Units (PDUs), which are critical for maintaining your credentials. The PMI’s Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR) program is designed to encourage continuous learning and professional development through a flexible framework. Here, we’ll summarize key ways you can earn PDUs, focusing on educational activities and giving back to the profession.

PMI Talent Triangle

Educational Activities (Education PDUs)

Education PDUs focus on enhancing your technical, leadership, and strategic skills. PMI aligns educational PDUs with the PMI Talent Triangle, which covers:

  • Ways of Working (technical project management)
  • Power Skills (leadership and communication)
  • Business Acumen (strategic and business management)

You can earn Education PDUs through:

  • Formal Courses and Training: Attend instructor-led classes, whether in-person or online, offered by PMI Authorized Training Partners (ATPs) or PMI chapters.
  • Digital and Online Learning: Engage in on-demand courses, webinars, and self-paced learning available on platforms like ProjectManagement.com.
  • Reading and Self-Directed Study: Stay informed by reading books, whitepapers, or articles relevant to your certification.
  • Informal Learning: Participate in structured discussions, such as mentoring sessions or “lunch and learn” activities.

Giving Back to the Profession

The “Giving Back” category includes activities that contribute to the project management profession by applying your knowledge or volunteering. Key opportunities to earn PDUs here include:

  • Working as a Practitioner: Use your skills in a certified role to earn PDUs while actively applying your knowledge in a work setting.
  • Creating New Knowledge: Author articles, blogs, or create webinars and presentations that benefit the profession.
  • Presenting: Give formal presentations on project management topics at PMI chapter events or within your organization.
  • Sharing Knowledge: Mentor others or teach a course to help build project management skills in the community.
  • Volunteering: Engage in volunteer roles with PMI or other not-for-profit organizations, applying your domain expertise.

Key Policies to Remember

Reporting PDUs: As you earn PDUs, report them via PMI’s Continuing Certification Requirements System (CCRS) to track your progress.

Documentation: Be prepared to provide documentation, such as certificates, event attendance records, or notes, if audited by PMI.

Claiming PDUs Across Certifications: Many PDUs, especially education-related, can apply across multiple certifications if the content aligns with their domain areas.

Final Tips

Plan Ahead: Make a plan to regularly earn and report PDUs throughout your certification cycle to avoid any last-minute rush.

Diversify Your PDU Activities: To stay compliant with the PMI Talent Triangle, ensure you spread your PDUs across the three skill areas.

By actively participating in these professional development activities, you not only maintain your certification but also stay current with evolving industry practices. For more detailed requirements and policies, refer to the attached CCR Handbook provided by PMI.