Learn How the SAFe Certification Renewal Process Works

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safe certification renewal

SAFe (Scaled Agile Framework) certification is a globally recognized accreditation that demonstrates an individual’s proficiency in agile methodologies, specifically the Scaled Agile Framework. SAFe certification validates an individual’s ability to lead agile teams, manage agile projects, and implement SAFe practices in an organization.

SAFe certification renewal is crucial for SAFe-certified professionals to maintain their accreditation and keep up-to-date with the latest SAFe framework practices. SAFe is a dynamic framework, and as new updates and improvements are made to the framework, SAFe-certified professionals need to stay current with these changes. 

Renewing SAFe certification provides an opportunity for certified professionals to refresh their knowledge, continue their professional development, and stay relevant in the industry. Additionally, SAFe certification renewal helps certified professionals to remain competitive in the job market, and it demonstrates a commitment to continuous learning and improvement.

In this article, we will discuss the SAFe certification renewal process, which is crucial for SAFe-certified professionals to maintain their accreditation and stay up-to-date with the latest practices in the Scaled Agile Framework. We will cover the eligibility requirements, steps for renewal, continuing education requirements, and tips for a successful renewal. By the end of this article, readers will have a clear understanding of the SAFe certification renewal process and its importance in professional development.

The SAFe certification renewal process is designed to ensure that certified professionals stay up-to-date with the latest practices and changes in the Scaled Agile Framework. The process involves completing continuing education requirements and submitting a renewal application and fees. Once the application is approved, the certified professional’s accreditation is renewed for another year.

Eligibility Requirements for SAFe Certification Renewal:

To be eligible for SAFe certification renewal, professionals must hold an active SAFe certification, have completed the required continuing education units (CEUs), and have an up-to-date profile on the SAFe Community Platform. The required CEUs vary depending on the certification level, and professionals must earn the CEUs within the specified time frame to be eligible for renewal.

Cost of Renewing SAFe Agilist Certification

The SAFe Agilist Certification has a safe certification renewal cost that must be paid in order to maintain certification. Depending on the certification, different fees apply for renewal. The cost of keeping your SAFe Agilist certification current is $100 USD. The safe certification renewal price for a SAFe Program Consultant Trainer is $895 USD. When there are several certificates, bundle renewal is also an option.

Timeframe for SAFe Certification Renewal:

SAFe certifications are valid for one year from the date of issuance. Certified professionals must complete the required CEUs and submit their renewal application and fee before the expiration date to maintain their accreditation. If the certification is not renewed before the expiration date, the certified professional’s accreditation will be invalid, and they will need to retake the certification exam to regain their accreditation.

Steps for SAFe Certification Renewal

Step 1: Access the SAFe Community Platform:

The first step in the SAFe certification renewal process is to access the SAFe Community Platform. This platform provides access to the renewal application and resources for completing continuing education requirements. Certified professionals can log in to the platform using their Scaled Agile Academy account credentials.

Step 2: Complete Continuing Education:

To be eligible for SAFe certification renewal, certified professionals must complete the required continuing education units (CEUs) within the specified time frame. The types of continuing education activities that are accepted for CEUs include attending conferences, participating in webinars, completing online courses, and publishing articles related to agile practices. The number of required CEUs varies depending on the certification level. Certified professionals can find information on the SAFe Community Platform about available CEU activities and how to earn them.

Step 3: Submit Certification Renewal Application:

After completing the required CEUs, certified professionals must submit their certification renewal application through the SAFe Community Platform. The application requires the certified professional to confirm their contact information, provide details on their continuing education activities, and agree to the SAFe Community terms and conditions. The application must be submitted before the certification expiration date.

Step 4: Pay Certification Renewal Fee:

Certified professionals must pay a certification renewal fee when submitting their renewal application. The renewal fee varies depending on the certification level and is paid online through the SAFe Community Platform.

Step 5: Review and Approval:

Once the certification renewal application and fee have been submitted, they will be reviewed by the Scaled Agile Academy. The review process typically takes up to two weeks. If the application is approved, the certified professional’s accreditation will be renewed for another year, and they will receive a digital badge reflecting their renewed certification status. If the application is not approved, the certified professional will receive feedback on how to address any issues and can resubmit their application.

Continuing Education Requirements

Continuing education is a crucial component of the SAFe certification renewal process. It ensures that SAFe-certified professionals stay up-to-date with the latest practices and changes in the Scaled Agile Framework. The number of required continuing education units (CEUs) varies depending on the certification level, and certified professionals must earn the required CEUs within the specified time frame to be eligible for renewal.

Types of Continuing Education Activities:

The Scaled Agile Academy accepts a variety of continuing education activities for CEUs. These activities include attending conferences, participating in webinars, completing online courses, publishing articles related to agile practices, and contributing to the SAFe Community Platform. The Academy provides a list of pre-approved activities and guidelines for earning CEUs.

Earn Continuing Education Units (CEUs):

To earn CEUs, certified professionals must participate in approved continuing education activities and demonstrate their completion of the activity. For example, attending a conference requires proof of attendance, such as a certificate of completion. Completing an online course may require passing a quiz or submitting an assignment. To receive credit for publishing an article, the article must be reviewed and accepted by the Scaled Agile Academy. Certified professionals can track their completed CEUs on the SAFe Community Platform and must report their completed CEUs when submitting their renewal application.

Tips for a Successful SAFe Certification Renewal

A. Plan Ahead:

Planning is essential for a successful SAFe certification renewal. Certified professionals should be aware of their certification expiration date and plan to complete the required continuing education units (CEUs) well in advance of the renewal application deadline. By planning, they can ensure they have enough time to earn the required CEUs and submit their renewal application on time.

B. Keep Track of Your Continuing Education Activities:

Certified professionals should keep track of their completed continuing education activities to ensure they earn the required number of CEUs. They can use the SAFe Community Platform to track their completed CEUs and ensure they are meeting the requirements for their certification level. By keeping track of their continuing education activities, they can avoid any last-minute scrambling to meet the renewal requirements.

C. Ensure Your Information is Up-to-Date:

Certified professionals should ensure that their contact information and any other required information are up-to-date on the SAFe Community Platform. This includes their email address, mailing address, and employer information. Keeping this information up-to-date ensures that they receive important renewal reminders and notifications.

D. Stay Engaged with the SAFe Community:

Staying engaged with the SAFe Community is an excellent way to stay up-to-date on the latest developments in the Scaled Agile Framework and earn CEUs. Certified professionals can participate in the SAFe Community Platform by contributing to forums, attending virtual events, and collaborating with other SAFe-certified professionals. They can also join local SAFe user groups and attend SAFe-related conferences and events to network with other professionals and learn about the latest developments in the field. Staying engaged with the SAFe community not only helps in earning CEUs but also provides opportunities for professional growth and development.

Strategies for staying engaged in the SAFe community

  1. Attend SAFe Events: SAFe events provide a great opportunity to network with other professionals, learn from industry experts, and stay up-to-date with the latest developments in SAFe. Attend events such as SAFe Summits, Global SAFe Summits, and SAFe Days to stay engaged with the community.
  2. Participate in the SAFe Community Platform: The SAFe Community Platform is an online forum where certified professionals can connect, ask questions, share experiences, and collaborate on SAFe-related topics. Active participation in the community platform is a great way to earn CEUs and stay engaged with the community.
  3. Join a Local SAFe User Group: Local SAFe user groups provide an opportunity to connect with other professionals in your area and exchange ideas and experiences related to SAFe. Participating in a local user group can provide valuable networking opportunities and help you stay up-to-date with the latest SAFe developments in your region.
  4. Become a SAFe Contributor: If you have extensive experience with SAFe, consider becoming a SAFe contributor. As a contributor, you can share your expertise, contribute to the SAFe body of knowledge, and earn CEUs. You can contribute to the SAFe Framework, SAFe Community Platform, or SAFe Blog.
  5. Take SAFe Courses: SAFe courses are a great way to stay engaged with the community and earn CEUs. Take SAFe courses to stay up-to-date with the latest developments in SAFe and enhance your knowledge and skills.
  6. Volunteer for SAFe Events: Volunteering for SAFe events is a great way to give back to the community, meet new people, and earn CEUs. Volunteering opportunities include assisting with event planning, registration, and facilitating sessions.

Conclusion

In conclusion, renewing your SAFe certification is a crucial step in maintaining your credentials and staying up-to-date with the latest SAFe developments. Planning, keeping track of your CEUs, ensuring your information is up-to-date, and staying engaged with the SAFe community are key strategies for a successful renewal. By following these tips, you can maximize your opportunities for professional growth, enhance your skills, and stay connected with the SAFe community. 

Remember, staying engaged and continuing to learn is essential for staying relevant and successful in today’s ever-changing business landscape. So, make sure to stay on top of your SAFe certification renewal requirements and keep learning and growing as a SAFe professional.