Transition to ITIL® v5
Smooth transition paths for existing ITIL® professionals - respecting your investment while preparing you for the future
Transition principles
ITIL® v5 honors your existing expertise while introducing transformative new capabilities
No one left behind
Every ITIL® professional has a clear path to ITIL® v5, regardless of which version you hold. Your expertise is valued and respected.
Respecting your investment
Recognition for your existing certifications. Fast-track options minimize duplication.
Simple and clear
Straightforward transition pathways with clear requirements. No confusion about what you need to do next.
From ITIL® v3 to ITIL® v5
Updated pathways for v3 professionals to embrace the AI-native framework
| Current Qualification | Entry Point | Transition Option |
|---|---|---|
ITIL® v3 Foundation | Start with ITIL® (Version 5) Foundation | No bridging; full Foundation recommended to cover new topics |
ITIL® v3 Intermediate or Capability (1–4 modules) | Start with ITIL® (Version 5) Foundation | No bridging; provides the recommended path forward |
ITIL® Expert (v3) (MALC) | Eligible for ITIL® (Version 5) Managing Professional | ITIL® Managing Professional Transition (MPT) module - Requires 2 exams |
ITIL® Master (v3) | Eligible for ITIL® (Version 5) Managing Professional | ITIL® Managing Professional Transition (MPT) module - Requires 2 exams |
Important Note for v3 Professionals
ITIL® v5 Foundation is the single entry point for all professionals. While v3 certifications provide valuable transition paths toward specialist modules, all professionals must complete the Foundation certification to ensure understanding of AI-native concepts and the unified Digital Product & Service Management approach.
ITIL® 4 and ITIL® v5 Coexistence
ITIL® 4 and ITIL® v5 will coexist for a minimum of 12 months. There is no retirement date announced for ITIL® 4. This gives you plenty of time to plan your transition strategy and continue leveraging your existing ITIL® 4 certifications while exploring ITIL® v5 opportunities.
From ITIL® 4 to ITIL® v5
Efficient pathways for ITIL® 4 professionals with fast-track options
ITIL® 4 Foundation — Direct Path to v5
Your ITIL® 4 Foundation is directly valid as a prerequisite for all ITIL® v5 advanced courses. Additionally, a 1-day Bridge Course is available to cover the key differences between ITIL® 4 and v5 — AI-native design, product-service unification, and experience-first approach.
| Current Qualification | Entry Point | Transition Option |
|---|---|---|
ITIL® 4 Foundation | Valid prerequisite for all ITIL® v5 advanced courses | Your ITIL® 4 Foundation is directly accepted as prerequisite for any ITIL® v5 upper-level course. Additionally, a 1-day Bridge Course is available covering the key differences between ITIL® 4 and v5: AI-native design, product-service unification, and experience-first approach. |
ITIL® 4 Practice Manager | ITIL® Transformation to become a ITIL® (Version 5) Practice Manager | Structured transition path using the designated transition module and assessment. Respects recent investments |
ITIL® 4 Managing Professional | ITIL® MP Transition course and exam to become a ITIL® (Version 5) Managing Professional | Covers the new content in Product, Service, Experience and Transition. Two exams focus on the changes |
ITIL® 4 Strategic Leader | ITIL® Transformation to become a ITIL® (Version 5) Strategic Leader | Structured transition path using the designated transition module and assessment. Respects existing investments |
ITIL® 4 Master | ITIL® MP Transition course and exam to become a ITIL® (Version 5) Master | Covers the new content in Product, Service, Experience and Transition. Two exams focus on the changes |
Frequently Asked Questions
Key information about transitioning to ITIL® v5
Do ITIL® 4 Foundation holders need to retake Foundation?
No. Your ITIL® 4 Foundation is directly accepted as a prerequisite for all ITIL® v5 advanced courses. You can progress immediately to higher-level v5 certifications. Additionally, a 1-day Bridge Course is available covering the key differences between ITIL® 4 and v5 — AI-native concepts, product-service unification, and the experience-first approach.
What about ITIL® v3 Foundation holders?
ITIL® v3 Foundation holders should take the ITIL® v5 Foundation training and exam. This ensures you understand the AI-native concepts, unified Digital Product & Service Management approach, and other transformative updates introduced in ITIL® v5.
Can single ITIL® 4 certificate holders continue their journey?
Yes. Single ITIL® 4 certificate holders can continue their certification journey. Their certificates are recognized as valid prerequisites for v5 advanced certificates, making it easy to build on your existing credentials.
How many times do I need to take ITIL® Transformation?
ITIL® Transformation is a universal module that only needs to be taken once. Once completed, it applies across multiple certification paths including Practice Manager, Managing Professional, and Strategic Leader designations.
Do ITIL® certificates need to be renewed?
Yes. All ITIL® certificates require renewal every 3 years. You can renew by:
- Completing Continuing Professional Development (CPD) - 20 points per year
- Taking another certificate in the suite
- Retaking the exam
How long will ITIL® 4 and ITIL® v5 coexist?
ITIL® 4 and ITIL® v5 will coexist for a minimum of 12 months. There is currently no retirement date announced for ITIL® 4. This gives you ample time to plan your transition strategy while continuing to leverage your existing ITIL® 4 certifications.
Ready to begin your transition?
Explore the ITIL® v5 certification scheme and discover when you can start your journey