Giving Back to the Profession PDUs: Your Complete Guide
Earn PDUs by giving back to the project management profession. Learn how to claim credits through work experience, content creation, mentoring, and volunteering.
What are Giving Back PDUs?
In addition to earning PDUs within the Education category, PMI members also need to earn "Giving Back to the Profession" PDUs. These are all the ways in which you can demonstrate your project management skills in a practical way that contributes to the overall profession.
You can apply these hours to your PMP or ACP certification renewal. Unlike Education PDUs, Giving Back PDUs focus on practical application and contribution to the project management community.
Important
Ways to Earn Giving Back PDUs
| Activity | Maximum PDUs | Documentation Required |
|---|---|---|
| Working as a Practitioner | 4-8 PDUs (varies by certification) | Job description or proof of employment |
| Creating Content | 1 PDU per hour (unlimited) | Copies of publications, sample materials |
| Mentoring & Teaching | Varies by activity | Documentation of mentoring/teaching activities |
| Volunteering | Varies by activity | Documentation of volunteer work |
Explore Each Activity
Working as a Practitioner
Claim up to 8 PDUs from your work experience. Learn the requirements and how to document your practitioner work.
Creating Content
Earn 1 PDU per hour by blogging, writing newsletters, or creating educational content. Get started with our step-by-step guide.
Mentoring & Teaching
Share your knowledge and earn PDUs by mentoring others or teaching project management concepts.
Volunteering
Give back to the profession through volunteer work with PMI chapters or non-profit organizations.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many Giving Back PDUs do I need?
There's no specific minimum requirement for Giving Back PDUs. However, you need a total of 60 PDUs to renew your certification, and Giving Back PDUs count toward this total. Many professionals find it easier to earn some PDUs through Giving Back activities.
Can I claim the same activity multiple times?
It depends on the activity. Working as a Practitioner can only be claimed once per certification cycle. However, Creating Content PDUs can be claimed for each hour of content creation, so you can continue earning PDUs throughout your cycle.
What documentation do I need?
Documentation requirements vary by activity. Generally, you'll need proof of the activity (job description, published content, volunteer records) and evidence of how it relates to project management. See each activity page for specific requirements.