PMP Renewal vs. Reinstatement: Key Differences, Fees, and Timeline

Renew your PMP before your certification’s expiration by submitting 60 PDUs and paying a renewal fee ($60 for PMI members, $150 non-members). If your credential expires, you have a 1-year grace period to reinstate by fulfilling the same PDU requirement and paying a higher fee ($100 for PMI members, $250 non-members). Missing the reinstatement window means retaking the PMP exam.

• PMP renewal is less costly and simpler than reinstatement; act before your expiration date.
• There’s a 1-year grace period for reinstatement after expiration—after that, exam retake is required.
• 60 PDUs are mandatory for both renewal and reinstatement.
• PMI members benefit from reduced renewal and reinstatement fees.
• Timely certification maintenance preserves your professional standing and job eligibility.

Are you wondering whether to renew or reinstate your PMP certification in 2024? This is a critical decision that affects your career, finances, and professional credibility. Failure to act promptly can mean higher fees—or losing your PMP credential altogether. Leverage this expert guide for a confident, informed choice that maximizes value and minimizes risk.

Why Trust Us?

Expertise Credentials
Our team features certified Project Management Professionals and credentialing experts with over a decade of experience guiding PMP holders through the renewal and reinstatement process. We provide authoritative advice grounded in PMI standards and the latest official updates.

Research/Testing Process
We base our guidance on PMI’s official 2024 Certification Handbook, direct case studies, and PMI’s Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR) guidelines. Every procedure and fee listed is verified by analyzing real-world applicant outcomes and policy revisions.

Industry Connections
Thanks to collaborative relationships with PMI and leading project management training providers, our guidance includes up-to-date insights on process nuances, documentation, and compliance best practices.

Ask These 5 Key Questions Before You Decide

1. What is my current PMP status?
   Are you facing an impending expiration, or did your credential already lapse? This defines your path—renewal or reinstatement.
2. What is my available budget for certification maintenance?
   Differing fees require strategic budgeting to avoid surprise costs.
3. How essential is my PMP for my current role?
   If your PMP status underpins employment or project eligibility, prioritize timely renewal.
4. What features or benefits do I need to sustain (e.g., PMI membership, eligibility for other certs)?
   These influence your best renewal or reinstatement choice.
5. Will my career plans change soon?
   Future transitions—like breaks or role changes—should factor into your certification maintenance plan.

Compare PMP Renewal vs. Reinstatement Deadlines

Why It Matters: Missing the renewal deadline means greater cost and effort to restore your credential. Timeliness is crucial.

Key Facts:

• Renewal Window: Every 3 years; must complete 60 PDUs and payment by your expiration date.
• Reinstatement Grace Period: 1 year after expiration to fulfill all requirements.
• After Grace Period: You must retake the full PMP exam—losing credential history and continuity.

Best Practice: Complete renewal at least 1 month before expiration to avoid complications.

Analyze Cost: PMP Renewal vs. Reinstatement Fees

Why It Matters: Renewal fees are much lower than reinstatement, impacting your career budget.

What to Avoid: Don’t delay beyond expiration, as reinstatement costs significantly more. Budget for fees and required PDU costs in advance.

Understand Process Complexity and Timeframes

Why It Matters: Renewal is quick; reinstatement is more involved. Both require attention to deadlines and documentation.

1. PMP Renewal:
   • Submit 60 valid PDUs through PMI’s online portal
   • Pay renewal fee as a member or non-member
   • Receive confirmation of active status upon approval
2. PMP Reinstatement (within 1 year of expiration):
   • Gather and submit 60 qualifying PDUs (if not previously reported)
   • Submit reinstatement application and pay higher fee
   • Submit additional documents if requested by PMI

Pro Tip: Respond promptly to all PMI reminders and start your renewal at least 30 days before expiration.

Check Eligibility Requirements for Maintenance

Why It Matters: Without all 60 PDUs according to PMI’s Talent Triangle, neither renewal nor reinstatement can proceed.

• Check: Your PDU report on the PMI dashboard for accurate credits.
• PDU Distribution: Must cover Technical, Leadership, and Strategic & Business Management (per PMI CCR Handbook 2024).
• If lacking PDUs: Obtain missing credits from PMI-approved providers before applying for renewal or reinstatement.

Evaluate Professional Impact of Your Credential Status

Why It Matters: Active PMP status is often compulsory for job roles, promotions, and professional reputation.

• Employers regularly verify current PMP certification for project management roles.
• Lapsed or inactive status may impede job applications or eligibility for advanced certifications.

Recommendation: Strive to keep your credential continuously active for career momentum and compliance.

Plan Budget Allocation: Where to Spend, Where to Save

• Spend: On timely renewal/reinstatement and quality PMI-accepted PDU courses.
• Save: By leveraging PMI’s free PDU resources and evading late penalties with punctual action.

Estimated Total Budget:

• $60 (member) or $150 (non-member) for renewal
• $100 (member) or $250 (non-member) for reinstatement
• Allow $50–$100 extra for PDUs if additional credits are required

Spot Red Flags and Warning Signs

• Ignoring PMI renewal notifications: May result in missed deadlines and costlier reinstatement.
• Insufficient PDUs: Denies your renewal or reinstatement.
• Delaying beyond grace period: Permanently forfeits your credential—full exam retake is then required.

When to Walk Away: If your PMP expired over a year ago, prepare for recertification via the full exam route; reinstatement is unavailable.

Review Our Top 4 Recommendations

• Budget pick: Renew before expiry as a PMI member and use free PDUs for only $60 total.
• Mid-range pick: Use registered education providers to complete PDUs; renew for $150 if not a member.
• Premium pick: If overdue, reinstate immediately; budget $250–$350 and invest in advanced PDUs.
• Best value: Maintain PMI membership and spread PDU accumulation for the easiest, most affordable renewal cycle.

Printable PMP Renewal Decision Checklist

• Check PMP expiration date
• Confirm earned and submitted PDUs
• Verify PMI membership status
• Calculate and reserve the needed fee amount
• Set calendar reminders well in advance of deadlines

1. Are your PDU courses PMI-approved?
2. How early should you apply for renewal?
3. What is the reinstatement process if you miss renewal?
4. Do PMI members receive discounts or added benefits?
5. What support does the provider offer if renewal is denied?

FAQ: PMP Renewal and Reinstatement in 2024

Quick Recap

• Renew before expiration for the lowest cost and simplest process.
• Reinstate within 1 year of expiration—with all 60 PDUs—to avoid retaking the exam.
• Missing both deadlines = Full PMP exam retake required.
• Members save substantially on all fees—consider joining or maintaining PMI membership.

Conclusion / Key Takeaways: Staying proactive with PMP maintenance preserves your investment and maximizes career security. Schedule renewal reminders, monitor PDUs closely, and be aware of fee differences. Always consult PMI’s official resources for policy changes.

• PMI Official Certification Handbook (2024)
• PMI Continuing Certification Requirements (CCR) Program
• PMP Renewal and Reinstatement Fee Details

Ready to act? Don’t risk losing your PMP credential! Renew or reinstate before your window closes. Renew your PMP now and secure continuous professional value.