Why is there a limit on the number of the PDUs that can be carried from a current cycle to the next cycle?

In every issue of The PDU Insider podcast I answer a question from our subscribers about earning PDUs. This week's question is:

Why is there a limit on the number of the PDUs that can be carried from a current cycle to the next cycle?

My Answer: The reason for this is because PMI calls it the "Continuing Certification Requirements System" (CCRS) and not the "Earn 2,000 PDUs PDUs in the first year and then never ever bother to do anything anymore ever again System" ;-).

The spirit of the CCRS is such that PMI requires from a Project Management Professional that he/she continues to be actively involved in the project management profession in order to hold the PMP certificate.

According to PMI, the CCRS program is supposed to support your ongoing educational and professional development, encourage you to participate in learning opportunities and last but not least sustain the global recognition of the PMP credential.

By requiring PMPs to earn their PDUs as an ongoing activity we can be certain that all credential holders are regularly receiving some form of professional development and continue to learn and grow. If, however, PMI allowed you to simply earn hundreds and hundreds of PDUs in one year and then sit back and relax, you could never be certain if the PMP who is on your project truly deserved to still hold the credential.