ITIL (version 5) introduces major evolutions that make the framework more practical, flexible, and relevant for everyone working with digital products and services, across roles, teams, and organizations of all sizes.

Key innovations include:

· Modern, Integrated and Comprehensive Approach ITIL (Version 5) provides guidance that works across the entire organization – from leadership and strategy through to day-to-day operations – helping teams collaborate, align priorities, and consistently create value in both stable and fast-changing environments.

· AI-Native and Complexity-Ready ITIL (Version 5) helps professionals work effectively in complex, AI-enabled environments by providing practical guidance on how to adapt, make informed decisions, and manage change as technology, business needs, and customer expectations evolve.

· Integration of Products and Services ITIL provides end-to-end lifecycle guidance for digital products and services, integrating both for holistic management and value.

· Emphasis on Digital Experience Digital experience is a core focus in ITIL (Version 5), helping professionals design, deliver, and

improve digital products and services with greater visibility, collaboration, and understanding of how different stakeholders experience value.

· Continuity with Previous Versions ITIL (Version 5) incorporates proven concepts and models from ITIL 4 and earlier, including the value system and guiding principles.

A new version is needed because the digital landscape has changed dramatically. Organizations today must operate faster, smarter, and more flexibly, especially with AI transforming how work gets done.

ITIL (version 5) arrives now to address these realities:

· Digital-first, product-centric enterprises require updated guidance. Previous versions focused mainly on services; modern organizations manage integrated products and services.

· AI and automation are reshaping operations. ITIL (Version 5) provides an AI-native approach that helps organizations adapt and innovate confidently.

· Businesses need models that support agility and rapid change. ITIL (Version 5) evolves to ensure adaptive, outcome-focused practices aligned with real-world needs.

· Organizations must continually demonstrate measurable value. The new framework strengthens the link between people, practices, and technology to drive sustainable business results.

· In short: ITIL (Version 5) evolves to match today’s AI-driven, fast-changing environment, providing practical guidance that supports people across all roles and organizations in delivering and improving digital products and services.

ITIL Foundation (version 5) certification and ITIL Practice certifications will remain as closed book MCQ examinations. ITIL AI Governance will also be a closed book MCQ examination.

For the ITIL Product, ITIL Service, ITIL Experience, ITIL Strategy, and ITIL Transformation certifications, open book examinations are planned, allowing candidates to focus on understanding, applying concepts, and making informed decisions rather than memorization.

No, you only have to pass one of the Practice Manager modules (free choice of one) and the Transformation module to automatically receive the ITIL (version 5) Practice Manager designation.

ITIL 4 Foundation holders do not need to retake their Foundation certification. ITIL (version 5) represents an evolution rather than a revolution, and ITIL 4 Foundation is fully recognized as a prerequisite for all advanced ITIL (version 5) qualifications.

For candidates who have successfully completed the ITIL v3 Foundation (released in 2007), we recommend the ITIL (version 5) Foundation training and successfully pass the examination to transition into the new certification scheme. Many years have passed and compared to ITIL v3, the ITIL (version 5) Foundation introduces a significant amount of new content and updated practices, making refreshed training and certification essential. This ensures that professionals gain a solid understanding of the latest digital product and service management concepts, and are fully prepared to apply ITIL (version 5) in modern, dynamic business environments.

If you hold a single ITIL 4 certificate, you already have a valuable start in ITIL (Version 5) as ITIL certificates are recognized as pre-requisites for all ITIL (Version 5) advanced level certificates. The best way to continue your journey is to choose an ITIL (Version 5) path that aligns with your goals. Your ITIL 4 experience is not lost, it provides context and understanding that will make learning ITIL (Version 5) easier and help you connect proven best practices with the latest guidance in digital product and service management.

ITIL Transformation (version 5) is a core module forming part of the ITIL Practice Manager, ITIL Managing Professional, and ITIL Strategic Leader designations. It only needs to be taken once.

Yes, ITIL (version 5) certificates will be issued with a 3 year renew by date.

Certificate renewal is the same as before in ITIL 4 and similarly to PRINCE2 and DevOps Institute certificates.

You can choose any of the following renewal routes:

1. Become a PeopleCert Plus member and gain access to our Continuous Professional Development (CPD) programme, which allows you to keep your certifications current by logging 20 CPD points per year, for 3 consecutive years, for everyday professional activities.

2. Take another certification from the same Product Suite. For ITIL (Version 5) the Product suite contains ALL ITIL certificates.

3. Take the same certification again.

No final retirement date for ITIL 4 has been announced.

ITIL 4 and ITIL (version 5) are expected to run in parallel for a minimum of 12 months to allow candidates and organizations to complete in-flight learning journeys.

Unused ITIL 4 Foundation vouchers will be exchangeable for ITIL Foundation (version 5) vouchers (specific guidance will be issued separately).

A detailed coexistence and retirement plan will be shared ahead of any change.