Does PRINCE2 Agile Expire?
For professionals navigating the dynamic world of project management, combining the governance of PRINCE2 with the flexibility of Agile can be a powerful career move. The PRINCE2 Agile certification is the best way to acquire, and validate, this skill set. But does it expire?
The PRINCE2 Agile Foundation Certificate
The PRINCE2 Agile Foundation certification is your entry point into the blended methodology. For many years, this qualification was considered valid for life, with no expiry date. However, this has changed. As of January 2023, PeopleCert (the certifying body) has introduced a renewal date.
A New Three-Year Renewal Cycle
All new Foundation certificates issued from January 2023 onwards will now have a renewal date set for three years from the date of the exam. This change reflects the fast pace of evolution in project management.
While the renewal is obviously optional, failing to renew means your certificate status will no longer align with the most current industry standards on the official register, which could potentially affect your professional credibility.
The PRINCE2 Agile Practitioner Certificate
The Practitioner certification, which demonstrates your ability to apply and tailor the methodology, has always had a validity period. This certificate is valid for three years from the date of issue. To maintain your certified status, you will need to go through a renewal process before your expiry date. This is a critical step for anyone who uses the certification as a key credential for their professional role.
Options for Renewal
If you hold a Practitioner certificate, you have three primary options to renew it:
Retake the same exam: You can retake the Practitioner exam before your renewal date.
Take another certification from the same suite: By passing an exam in a related product suite (such as a different PRINCE2 or MSP qualification), your existing certification will automatically be renewed.
Log Continuing Professional Development (CPD) points: You can subscribe to PeopleCert's CPD programme, and log professional development activities to accumulate the required points over a three-year period.
The Importance of Staying Current
Even though the Foundation certificate didn't originally expire, the new renewal cycle for both levels highlights the importance of staying current.
Project management best practices, technologies, and methodologies are constantly evolving. Renewing your certification is about demonstrating an ongoing commitment to professional growth, and ensuring your skills remain relevant and valuable in the job market. Your up-to-date certification will reassure both employers and clients that you’re still aligned with the latest industry standards.
Conclusion: Does PRINCE2 Agile Expire?
Yes, PRINCE2 Agile certifications do expire. The Foundation certificate has a three-year validity period for certificates issued since January 2023. Practitioner also has a validity period of three years, and needs to be renewed if you want to maintain your registered status. The new renewal process offers flexible options to ensure your skills remain current. This change reflects the dynamic nature of project management, reinforcing the need for professionals to engage in continuous learning.