Introduction
One of the most common questions PMP® credential holders ask is: “Do I need to be a PMI® member to maintain my PMP certification?” Many believe that being a PMI® member is mandatory to claim PDUs and renew their certification. While PMI® membership offers benefits such as networking and exclusive access to resources, it is not a requirement for maintaining your certification.
In this blog, we will debunk this misconception, show you the real numbers for PMP® renewal as a member vs. non-member, and offer some cost-effective alternatives to earn your PDUs without being a PMI® member.
What Is PMI® Membership and What Does It Offer?
PMI® (Project Management Institute) membership is available for $129 (plus a one-time $10 joining fee for new members) and provides various benefits, including:
- Discounts on certifications, renewal, and PMI® products.
- Access to PMI® standards, guides, and templates.
- Opportunities to join PMI® Communities of Practice.
- Networking events and access to PMI® webinars.
However, these benefits come with an annual cost. If you do not regularly engage in PMI® activities or use their resources, this membership might not be worth the investment for you.
Let’s dive into whether or not it’s necessary for PMP® renewal.
Misconception: Is PMI® Membership Necessary to Claim PDUs?
Contrary to popular belief, you do not need to be a PMI® member to claim PDUs or renew your PMP® certification. To maintain your PMP®, you simply need to log 60 PDUs every three years in your PMI® account. A free account, which you can create on PMI®’s website, allows you to track and report your PDUs without paying for membership.
PMI® membership offers certain conveniences, such as discounted renewal fees, but it is not mandatory for the PMP® renewal process.
How Non-Members Can Maintain Their PMP® Certification
As a non-member, there are many ways to earn PDUs, such as:
Online courses: Enroll in PDU programs like Gururo’s 60 PDUs Bundle.
Free webinars: Attend free industry webinars or PMI-hosted events.
Volunteering: Earn PDUs by volunteering in project management activities.
Reading and learning: Participate in self-paced learning through books, articles, or podcasts.
Cost Comparison: PMI® Member vs. Non-Member for PMP® Renewal
Category
PMI® Member
Non-Member
PMI® Membership Fee
$129/year (+$10 joining fee)
$0
PMP® Renewal Fee
$60
$150
Total Annual Cost
$129 + $60 = $189
$150
As you can see from the table, the overall cost for non-members is actually lower ($39 lower to be specific) than for PMI® members, especially if you don’t regularly use PMI® resources or attend their events.
Advisable or Not? Should You Be a PMI® Member?
If you frequently attend PMI® webinars, participate in PMI® communities, and take advantage of PMI®-related discounts, then the annual membership fee might be worth the investment. However, if you rarely use these resources, it is advisable not to become a PMI® member, especially considering that you can still earn PDUs and renew your PMP® certification without membership.
60%
Key point: PMI® reports that out of 1.6+ million credential holders, only 700,000 are PMI® members, meaning nearly 60% of the PMP® professionals have chosen to maintain their credentials without membership.
Cost-Effective Alternatives to Earn PDUs as a Non-Member
One of the most popular ways for non-members to earn PDUs is through online courses. With options like Gururo’s 60 PDUs Bundle, you can earn all the PDUs you need to renew your PMP® certification in a cost-effective and flexible manner.
What Happens If You Choose Not to Renew PMI® Membership?
If you choose not to renew your PMI® membership, you won’t lose your PMP certification. You’ll only need to pay the non-member fee for PMP® renewal, which is $150. The main trade-off is that you’ll miss out on PMI® member-exclusive benefits like discounted event fees, networking opportunities, and access to PMI® publications.
However, many PMP® professionals find that they can maintain their certification without these extras. In fact, you can still stay updated on industry trends and expand your knowledge through other avenues, such as Gururo’s PMP® Certification Training and the 60 PDUs Bundle.
Conclusion
You don’t need to be a PMI® member to maintain or renew your PMP® certification. While membership offers perks, you can claim your PDUs and renew your PMP® as a non-member just as easily. By enrolling in cost-effective programs like Gururo’s 60 PDUs Bundle, you can ensure that your PMP® credential stays valid without unnecessary expenses.
If you’re considering PMP certification or renewal, explore Gururo’s PMP Certification Training and PMP Renewal options to stay ahead in your project management career.
