ITIL® certification is one of the most widely recognised credentials for professionals working in IT service management, operations, and digital delivery. Organisations around the world use ITIL® practices to improve service quality, reduce risk, and align IT services with business outcomes.
This guide explains how ITIL® certification works globally in 2026, including certification pathways, training requirements, exam rules, certification renewal, digital badges, and options for individuals and organisations.
What Is ITIL® Certification?
ITIL® is a globally recognised framework for service management, used by organisations across industries such as finance, technology, healthcare, government, and telecommunications.
ITIL® certification validates that a professional understands modern service management concepts and can apply them in real-world environments.
All ITIL® certifications and exams are governed by PeopleCert, the official examination institute for ITIL®.
ITIL® Certification Pathways Explained
Most professionals begin with ITIL® 4 Foundation, which introduces the core concepts, principles, and practices of modern service management. After Foundation, professionals can progress through advanced pathways:
• ITIL® 4 Managing Professional (MP)
• ITIL® 4 Practice Manager
• ITIL® 4 Strategic Leader (SL)
With sufficient certifications and experience, candidates can ultimately achieve ITIL® Master status. Each pathway focuses on different aspects of service management, leadership, and organisational improvement.
Is Training Mandatory for ITIL®
Certification?
Training requirements depend on the certification level. ITIL® 4 Foundation
For ITIL® 4 Foundation:
• Training is not mandatory, but strongly recommended
• Candidates may:
o Self-study
o Use official eLearning
o Attend accredited training
Once ready, candidates receive an official exam voucher and can book the exam.
For all intermediate and advanced ITIL® certifications (Managing Professional, Practice Manager, Strategic Leader):
✅ Accredited training is mandatory
Candidates must:
• Attend training delivered by an Accredited Training Organisation (ATO), or
• Complete an official accredited eLearning course
⚠️ Important rule:
If a candidate attempts an intermediate-level ITIL® exam without completing accredited training, exam results will not be released, even if the exam is passed.
This requirement is enforced globally by PeopleCert, the official examination institute for ITIL®.
How ITIL® Exams Work
Online Exams
Most ITIL® exams are delivered online under strict proctoring rules.
Online exams are governed by PeopleCert and typically require:
• Identity verification
• Webcam and room checks
• Compliance with exam rules
• Stable internet connection
Paper-Based Exams (Corporate Only)
For corporate clients, paper-based ITIL® exams may be arranged upon request, subject to PeopleCert approval and availability.
This option is typically used for:
• Large corporate groups
• Regulated environments
• On-site private training engagements
After completing the exam:
• Preliminary results are shown immediately
• Official certificates are issued by PeopleCert within 2 working days
• Training meets PeopleCert accreditation standards
• Exam eligibility requirements are fulfilled
• Exam results and certifications are issued without delay
Digital Badges for ITIL® Certifications
Digital Badges
To receive official ITIL® digital badges, candidates need an active PeopleCert Plus membership.
Digital badges:
• Are verifiable
• Can be shared on LinkedIn and professional profiles
• Confirm certification authenticity
Membership can be purchased:
• Through an ATO, or
• Directly from PeopleCert
ITIL® Certification Renewal & CPD
All ITIL® certifications are valid for three years.
To keep certifications active without re-sitting exams, candidates can:
• Purchase PeopleCert Plus membership
• Accumulate 20 CPD points per year, for three consecutive years
CPD activities include:
• Training courses
• Webinars
• Reading official publications
• Professional activities
PeopleCert Plus membership also provides:
• Access to official eBooks
• Practice guides and playbooks
• Continuous learning resources
👉 Learn more about PeopleCert Plus membership below:
ITIL® Training Options
Globally, ITIL® training is available through:
• Live instructor-led training
• Accredited self-paced eLearning
• Private corporate training programs
All accredited options ensure:
• Compliance with PeopleCert rules
• Exam eligibility
• Access to official learning materials
All accredited trainings include:
• Official learning materials
• eBook
• Exam voucher • Sample Exams
Final Thoughts
ITIL® certification remains a strong investment for professionals and organisations worldwide. Understanding training requirements, exam rules, and renewal obligations is essential to avoid invalid results or expired certifications.
Whether you are starting with ITIL® 4 Foundation or progressing toward Managing Professional, Practice Manager, Strategic Leader, or ITIL® Master, choosing accredited training and understanding the certification lifecycle will ensure long-term value from your ITIL® journey.
Explore Location-Specific ITIL®
Training
For region-specific schedules, delivery options, and corporate arrangements, explore your local ITIL® training pages.
