Recertification

Recertification is the ongoing process of renewing a professional credential after its initial certification, to confirm continued competence and adherence to current industry standards. It is common across many fields, including healthcare, engineering, education, information technology, and skilled trades. Recertification may be mandatory, required by a licensing or regulatory body, a condition for employment, or voluntary to maintain professional credibility and marketability.

Recertification programs typically combine continuing education, assessments, and demonstrations of practical experience. Requirements vary by credential but commonly include continuing education credits (CEUs or CPDs), professional development hours (PDHs), performance reviews, or a recertification examination. Some programs rely on ongoing activity reporting or audits; others use a rolling renewal with no fixed expiration, provided ongoing requirements are met. The recertification cycle is usually defined in years or quarters and may involve fees and an application process. Failure to recertify often results in lapse of the credential and loss of the right to practice or to use the credential until renewed.

In practice, recertification helps ensure practitioners remain current with advances, changes in standards, and safety considerations. It supports public safety, quality assurance, and professional credibility, but can impose costs and time burdens. Critics point to barriers for smaller practices or professionals with limited access to training resources, while proponents emphasize accountability and up-to-date competencies.