Your Guide to Earning and Maintaining PMP PDUs in 2025

Maintaining your Project Management Professional (PMP) certification involves earning Professional Development Units (PDUs) to stay updated with industry practices and standards. Whether you're a seasoned project manager or aspiring to earn your PMP, understanding how to acquire and report PDUs is essential. This guide explores the various ways to earn PDUs, from formal training to volunteer work. It provides insights into managing and reporting them to ensure your PMP certification remains active and valuable.

What Are PMP PDUs?

Project Management Professional (PMP) certification by the Project Management Institute (PMI) is a credential that signifies expertise in project management. You must earn Professional Development Units (PDUs) to maintain your PMP certification. PDUs are a measure PMI uses to quantify approved learning and professional service activities project managers undertake to maintain their certification.

Why do PDUs Matter?

PDUs are crucial for ensuring that PMP-certified professionals stay current with evolving practices and trends in project management. They reflect ongoing professional development and a commitment to continuous learning, which are essential traits in a dynamic field like project management.

How To Maintain PMP PDUs?

  • How can a PMP-certified individual earn PDUs?
  • What are the prerequisites(if any), and who will monitor the completion of PDUs?

The answers are pretty simple, a candidate can earn the PDUs in many ways, but they must make sure they are fulfilling the required PDUs in each category within a time period of 3 years after their PMP certification is completed. Once a candidate earns a PDU, they have to make a record of each PDU-related activity and report it to the CCR system. After the verification, the candidate will have to go through the complete process of CCR and a renewal fee to complete the renewal of the certification.

How To Earn PMP PDUs?

Earning Professional Development Units (PDUs) is essential for maintaining your Project Management Professional (PMP) certification. Here's a breakdown of how to earn PDUs:

1. Course or Training

Participating in instructor-led formal education courses or classes, whether they're conducted in-person or online, is a valuable way to earn PDUs. You can join virtual or in-person instructor-led courses provided by PMI Training or access online courses that are available on demand. Additionally, pursuing academic education through programs accredited by the PMI Global Accreditation Center (GAC) can contribute to your PDU requirements.

Training courses offered by PMI-authorized training partners, including Disciplined Agile or PMP certification training, are also eligible for PDUs. Moreover, courses from other reputable third-party providers recognized by PMI can be utilized to fulfill your PDU needs.

2. Global Events

Attending meetings and events that bring together the global project management community is an excellent opportunity to earn PDUs. These events often feature educational sessions, keynote speeches, and presentations by industry experts. You can participate in live, virtual, or on-demand events organized by PMI.

Exploring the PMI events calendar will help you identify upcoming events where you can earn PDUs and stay updated with the latest trends and developments in project management.

3. Local Meetings

Engaging in local activities and events related to the project management profession, typically organized by PMI chapters, provides valuable networking opportunities and PDUs. These events offer a chance to connect with peers and industry professionals in your area.

By checking for chapter events near you and searching the PMI events calendar for local opportunities, you can find relevant gatherings to attend and earn PDUs while contributing to your professional development.

4. Online or Digital Media

Self-paced learning conducted online or through various forms of digital media is a flexible way to earn PDUs. Utilizing resources such as ProjectManagement.com for online on-demand courses can enhance your project management knowledge and skills.

Engaging in self-directed reading relevant to your PMP certification and utilizing resources like PMI Books is a convenient way to accrue PDUs on your schedule.

5. Informal Learning

Participating in structured professional discussions with others provides an opportunity to earn PDUs through informal learning activities. Participating in mentoring sessions or "lunch and learn" sessions fosters knowledge sharing and professional growth. By utilizing these informal learning opportunities, you can earn PDUs while gaining valuable insights and perspectives from your peers and colleagues.

Conclusion

In a fast-moving world, everything is evolving, and so are the job roles and responsibilities of a project manager. So, it is inevitable that a few practices that made sense a couple of decades ago wouldn’t be as effective today. The PMI enforces this by maintaining the PDUs for the continuation of their PMP certification. They enforce this for the betterment of the candidate and the all-round development of their project management skills with respect to the evolving key practices.

PMP PDUs FAQs

1. How many PDUs are required for PMP?

In total, 60 PDUs are required for PMP certification that must be maintained in the period of 3 years. These PDUs are divided into educational PDUs and giving back PDUs.

2. How to renew PMP PDUs?

To renew the PDUs for PMP you have to go through the CCR process where you will record and get the PDUs verified for the renewal process.

3. How to get free PMP PDUs?

Attending the PMI webinars can be a good way to learn and earn PDUs at the same time. You can earn 1 PDU for each hour spent learning/attending the webinars.

FAQs on PMP Certification

Why should I consider getting PMP certified?

PMP Certification enhances your project management skills, credibility, and career opportunities. It validates your expertise and demonstrates your commitment to the profession.

Numerous options for PMP exam preparation are available, including courses offered by the Project Management Institute (PMI), universities, colleges, and private companies. Your choice should align with your learning preferences and budget. Selecting a course that matches the latest PMI standards is vital.

Invensis Learning provides a PMP Certification Training course tailored for PMP-credentialed project managers. This course prepares you comprehensively for the PMP exam and meets the latest PMI standards. Choose a course that suits your learning style, and Invensis Learning's PMP Certification Training is recommended.

Undertaking the re-examination for Project Management Professional certification needs to be completed. You possess three opportunities to take the PMP exam within a year of approval. Failing all three mandates a one-year hiatus. To reapply, visit pmi.org, remit the re-examination fee, and obtain a fresh eligibility ID. This ID facilitates exam scheduling without a required waiting duration. Follow these steps:

  • Request re-examination
  • Await prior result registration (typically 3-4 business days)
  • Secure a new exam slot within the one-year eligibility window

You can utilize a non-programmable basic calculator to address questions within the PMP exam.

The PMP exam comprises questions from three distinct domains:

  • People (42%): Focuses on vital soft skills for leading cohesive teams
  • Process (50%): Concentrates on the technical intricacies of orchestrating successful projects
  • Business Environment (8%): Emphasizes aligning projects with organizational strategies and objectives

PMP-certified professionals are in demand globally, especially in regions with powerful industries, such as technology hubs, financial centers, and emerging markets.

PMP-certified professionals can pursue roles such as Project Manager, Program Manager, Portfolio Manager, Project Coordinator, and other leadership positions.

Yes, statistically, PMP-certified professionals tend to earn higher salaries than their non-certified counterparts, reflecting the value of their expertise. PMI says that PMP-certified professionals earn 16% higher than non-PMP-certified professionals.

Many employers actively seek PMP-certified professionals for project management roles due to their proven skills and ability to drive successful projects.

PMP Certification is valued across IT, construction, healthcare, finance, manufacturing, and more industries, wherever project management is essential.

PMP Certification enhances your professional credibility, career growth, and earning potential. It opens doors to leadership roles and global opportunities.

You'll receive a preliminary pass/fail result immediately after completing the exam. PMI will send you an official score report later, which includes details about your performance.

Depending on your chosen mode, the exam is typically conducted in a secure testing center or online. It's monitored to ensure a fair and secure testing environment.

The PMP exam syllabus covers many project management domains, including people, processes, and business environment.

Register for the PMP exam through PMI's official website. Select a testing center or opt for an online proctored exam, depending on your preference.

At Invensis Learning, we are dedicated to aiding your PMP certification journey. Our expert team supports you through the application process, ensuring all requirements are met. Valuable insights, tips, and strategies are provided to increase your chances of PMP exam success. Our resources encompass a comprehensive training course, practice exams, study materials, and a supportive PMP community. Our services not only enhance your application process but also provide exam readiness. This holistic approach distinguishes us from other PMP certification courses, making us a preferred choice.

Invensis Learning's PMP course and training material offer the most effective resources to excel in your PMP exam on the first attempt. It comprehensively covers the exam syllabus and provides valuable practice opportunities, making it an optimal choice for aspiring PMP candidates. To ensure a strong exam preparation, start early, diligently follow the step-by-step study plan, seek guidance from mentors, solve mock and simulation exams, and engage with PMP-style questions. With determination, you can achieve exam success and earn your certification.

Apply through PMI's online portal, detailing your project management experience, education, and contact information. If your application is accepted, you'll receive instructions for scheduling the exam.

Read the question carefully, identify the problem, analyze the options, and choose the best answer based on project management principles.

Plan to allocate time wisely for each question, but don't dwell too long on one question. Skip difficult ones and return to them later.

Yes, we have many PMP practice exams and simulation tests available that mimic the real exam environment and help you assess your readiness.

PMBOK Guide, practice exams, study guides, assessments, and reference books from reputable sources are essential for comprehensive preparation.

Prepare systematically by studying the PMBOK Guide, using reputable study materials, taking mock exams, and reviewing your weak areas.

There are a set of minimum requirements to be met for PMP certification. The prerequisites to take the PMP certification exam are:

Option 1

  • Educational Background: Secondary degree (high school diploma, associate's degree, or the global equivalent)
  • Project Management Experience: 60 months leading and directing projects
  • Project Management Education: 35 hours of project management education or CAPM certification

Option 2

  • Educational Background: Four-year degree
  • Project Management Education: 36 months hours leading and directing projects
  • Project Management Education: 35 hours of project management education or CAPM certification

Yes, our PMP training is available in various formats, including in-person classroom sessions and virtual live training, allowing you to choose what suits your learning style.

Look for accredited training providers that offer a comprehensive curriculum, experienced instructors, flexible schedules, and positive reviews from past participants. Invensis Learning is one such training provider which is recognized globally.

Our PMP training covers project management concepts, methodologies, and exam-specific topics. It prepares you for the PMP exam and provides practical skills for effective project management.

Upon successfully finishing the PMP course, you'll earn two certificates:

  • A course completion certificate signifies your mastery of project management concepts and skills
  • A 35-hour PDU (Professional Development Unit) certificate validating completion of the training required by PMI for PMP Exam eligibility
  • These certificates underscore your expertise and dedication to professional growth in project management.

Enrolling in PMP Training with a PMI Authorized Training Partner offers numerous advantages:

    Access to PMI-approved, up-to-date training content aligned with the PMP Examination Content Outline
  • Instruction from PMI-approved instructors with practical project management experience
  • Guidance and support to ensure your success
  • Networking opportunities with fellow project managers to learn from diverse experiences
  • Flexible learning formats, such as online, in-person, or blended, tailored to your preferences

The journey toward PMP certification follows these steps:

  • Confirm eligibility for the PMP exam
  • Complete 35 hours of training from a PMI Registered Education Provider
  • Apply for and schedule the PMP exam
  • Pay the exam fee ($405 for PMI members, $555 for non-members)
  • Develop a study plan utilizing the PMBOK Guide and other resources
  • Successfully passed the exam to earn the title of Certified Project Management Professional
  • Showcase your PMP credential to establish global recognition in project management

Yes, PMP Certification is widely recognized and respected internationally. It's a testament to your skills and expertise, opening doors to global opportunities.

PMP Certification is valid for three years. You can renew it by earning Professional Development Units (PDUs) and demonstrating ongoing professional involvement.

The PMI ceased disclosing pass rates after 2005. Nonetheless, it is widely believed that the PMP pass rate remains below 70%. The amalgamation of commitment and intensive training from a PMI Authorized Training Partner forms the successful formula for acing the PMP exam on your initial endeavor.

General FAQs

What are the modes of training provided by Invensis Learning?

Invensis Learning provides 5 different modes of training in the form of:

  • Instructor-led live online (virtual) training
  • Instructor-led classroom training
  • On-site group training
  • Focused 1-to-1 training
  • Self-paced E-learning

You can enroll for training by following below mentioned points:

  • Select a course
  • Select a schedule of your choice
  • Select the mode of your training
  • Click on “Enrol Now” button
  • Fill the necessary details to make the payment
  • Get all the course materials to prepare for the training
  • Join the training on the scheduled date

Yes, you can opt for a customized schedule which is not there on the website. But getting custom schedules will depend on few criteria mentioned below:

  • Focused 1-to-1 training can be customized as per your choice
  • Group training of more than 5 participants can be customized
  • On-site training can be customized as per clients’ requirement

Please check the website regularly to check for new offers and discounts happening throughout the year. You can also get in touch with one of our training consultants through chat to check if any discounts are available.

For all the certification training courses, you will receive their official certificate. Upon completion of the certification exam, the results will be immediately announced. If a participant has cleared the exam, your digital certificate will be made available immediately. But, if you require a hard copy of the certificate, you may incur additional cost and it will be delivered to your address in 2-3 weeks of time.

Once you enroll for training from Invensis Learning, you will receive:

  • A copy of course material
  • Study guide Prepared by SMEs
  • Practice Tests
  • Retrospective session
  • Access to free resources
  • Complimentary additional training session
  • PDUs for relevant courses
  • Course completion certificate/Official certificate

Please check out our refund policy page to know more if you cancel your enrollment.

No, English is the preferred language for the mode of training delivery. Any language other than English will have to be custom request which will be fulfilled at additional cost and availability of a native language trainer.

If you would like to know more about a course, you can mail us at support@invensislearning.com or call us at (+91 96202-00784) or chat with our training consultant to get your query resolved.

PMI-ACP Exam Prep certification is beneficial for various roles, including Project Managers, Scrum Masters, Product Owners, Agile Coaches, and anyone involved in Agile project management seeking career advancement. These roles are highly sought after in industries that rely on Agile frameworks to improve project outcomes.

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