ACC Renewal Guide: Everything You Need to Renew Your ICF Credential
By Lucia Baldelli
Did you know you must renew your ICF Credential every three years? Most ICF ACC certified coaches find out about the requirements and the process for renewal when the deadline is close. Even though the ICF sends a reminder a few months before the deadline, their email might end up in your spam folder and your certification might lapse! In this article, I will walk you through the process to renew your ACC, sharing relevant information to plan for your renewal and successfully maintain your ICF Credential.
How do I renew my ICF ACC credential?
Renewing your ICF ACC credential is an important step in your professional development as a coach. It is not just about paying for a renewal fee. The renewal process ensures that you stay committed to your professional development, keeping your coaching approach at a high standard.
There are specific requirements to meet and tasks to complete, and it’s crucial to do everything on time and start early to avoid lapsing your credential.
ICF accepts renewal applications up to 10 months before the credential’s expiration date, allowing coaches to seamlessly continue their certification cycle without any interruptions.
Despite that, many coaches wait too long, or do not know that completing the renewal requirements takes time and effort.
If you are confused about the process and the instructions on the ICF website, or you’re feeling lost about what you need to do to meet the renewal requirements, here’s a step-by-step guide on how to renew your ICF ACC credential.
Need help with the ACC renewal process? Book a chat with Lucia and discover the most streamlined path for you!
Earning Continuing Coach Education (CCE) Hours for ICF ACC renewal
For many coaches, understanding how to earn CCEUs for ICF ACC renewal can be challenging. To help you renew your ICF ACC credential with ease, we’ve compiled a full list of straightforward ways to earn the required CCE hours while enhancing your skills and refining your coaching approach.
Here are some qualifying activities to earn CCEs for your ACC renewal and the documentation required:
- ICF Ethics Course (Free!): ICF Learning Portal transcript or certificate
- ICF Communities of Practice events: ICF Learning Portal transcript
- ICF Chapter webinars/events approved for CCEs: Certificate issued by the ICF Chapter, including candidate name, the name of the event, date, the total number of CCEs and CCE credit breakdown (CC/RD)
- ICF Regional or Global conference or event: Certificate issued from ICF with the name of the candidate, event, date(s), total number of CCEs earned and CCE credit breakdown (CC/RD)
- ICF CCE training program or course: Certificate, letter issued by the provider with the name of the candidate, event/course, date, total number of CCE units earned, and CCE credit breakdown (CC/RD). Check our courses accredited for CCEs to find out how we can help.
- ICF Accredited Coach Education Programs: Certificate issued by the provider with the name of the candidate, event/course, date, and the total number of educational hours completed.
- Non-ICF accredited coach education course (Live / synchronous): Certificate of completion issued by the provider with the name of the candidate, course/training, date, and number of training hours completed. For any hours to count toward Core Competency credit requirements, applicants must submit supplemental documentation demonstrating course alignment with the ICF Core Competencies, Code of Ethics, and definition of coaching.
- E-learning or self-paced online course: Certificate of completion, letter or email issued by the provider with the name of the candidate, course/training, date, and number of training hours completed. For hours to count toward Core Competency credit requirements, supplemental documentation demonstrating course content, including modules/content aligned with the ICF Core Competencies, instructional hours for each module, and verification of learning or assessment must be submitted.
- Mentor Coaching: Letter stating the name of the mentor coach, their email address, start and end dates of the mentor coaching engagement, and the total number of mentor coaching hours completed. Check our mentor coaching options to partner with an ICF MCC in your personal development.
Good to know: ICF offers free courses that you can take to earn CCEs. The best part? If you take these courses you don’t have to submit any documents as they are automatically submitted onto your ICF member profile!
ICF Renewal Fees
Renewing your ICF ACC credential has a cost, which varies depending on your membership status with the International Coach Federation (ICF):
- ICF members: $175 USD
- Non-members: $275 USD
The ICF renewal fees help cover the administrative costs associated with processing your renewal application and ensuring that you continue to meet the high standards set by the ICF.
When you’re ready to submit your renewal application, the payment for recertification is the final step in the process. Simply click the “checkout” button to complete your payment. The ICF accepts all major credit cards for online payments, making it convenient for you to finalise your renewal.
What is the Timeline for an ICF Credential Renewal?
The estimated time for review of ICF ACC credential renewal applications is approximately 6-8 weeks from the date of submission. It’s important to keep this timeline in mind when planning your renewal process to ensure that your credential does not lapse.
To avoid any interruptions in your credentialed status, it’s recommended that you submit your renewal application well in advance of your credential expiration date. The ICF allows you to submit your renewal application up to 10 months prior to your credential expiration date, giving you plenty of time to gather the necessary documentation and complete the application process.
By submitting your renewal application early, you can account for the review period and ensure a smooth transition from your current credential to your renewed ACC credential. This proactive approach also gives you peace of mind, knowing that you have taken the necessary steps to maintain your professional standing as an ICF-credentialed coach.
Renewing your ACC or Upgrading to an ICF PCC Credential?
As you approach the expiration date of your current ICF credential, you may find that upgrading to a higher-level credential is the best next step in your coaching journey.
The ICF Credential Upgrade policy simplifies the process of leveling up your credential: you can maintain your current credential status for up to 12 months while your new credential application is under review. This means you can focus on your upgrade without the need for a separate renewal application or fees.
Upgrading your credential offers numerous benefits, including recognition of your advanced coaching skills, increased credibility with clients and employers, and opportunities for professional growth and development.
To determine if you qualify for a higher-level credential, complete the Credential Path Survey. Based on your responses regarding your coaching education and experience hours, the survey results will indicate the ICF credential level(s) and application pathway for which you are eligible.
From there, you can create and complete the appropriate credential application, showcasing your expertise and commitment to the coaching profession.
Are you looking for advice to pass your ICF ACC Exam? Read our complete guide to the new test!
FAQ
When renewing your ICF ACC credential, you may have several questions about the process, requirements, costs and timeline. This FAQ section aims to address some of the most common concerns coaches have when navigating the credential renewal journey with ICF.
We’ll cover topics such as the specific requirements for ACC renewal, the costs involved, and what to do if your credential has lapsed, to help you make your ICF Credential renewal experience as smooth and stress-free as possible!
Where to Earn your CCEs for ICF Credential Renewal?
To earn the required CCEs for your ICF ACC credential renewal, you have several options:
- Mentor Coaching: Up to 10 hours of mentor coaching (giving or receiving) can count towards your renewal. These hours must be in addition to any mentor coaching completed for your initial credential. Check our mentor coaching options to partner with an ICF MCC in your personal development.
- Core Competencies: At least 24 CCEs must be in the Core Competencies category, with 3 of those CCEs focusing on ICF Coaching Ethics. You can easily earn the ethics CCEs by completing the free ICF Ethics CCE Course online.
- Resource Development: The remaining 16 CCEs can be in either Resource Development or Core Competencies.
- ICF-Accredited Programs and Webinars: Many coach training institutes offer programs and webinars that award CCEs. Look for ICF-accredited offerings to ensure they qualify for your renewal.
- ICF’s Continuing Professional Development: Visit the ICF website to explore the types of training accepted for CCEs and find opportunities to earn credits through their platform.
By combining mentor coaching, core competency training, and resource development, you can earn the CCEs needed to renew your ICF ACC credential and continue growing as a coach on multiple dimensions.
What happens if you fail to renew or meet the recertification requirements?
If you fail to renew your ICF ACC credential or meet the recertification requirements by the expiration date, your credential status will lapse after a two-month grace period. Once your credential has lapsed, it is no longer considered active, and you must immediately stop using all ICF credential logos and marks. To reinstate your credential, you will need to follow the steps for renewing an ICF lapsed credential, which may involve additional fees and documentation. Keep on reading to find our more about renewing lapsed credentials.
What is the ICF grace period?
The ICF provides a two-month (60 days) grace period following the expiration date of your ACC credential. During this time, your credential will remain active, allowing you to submit your renewal application without penalty. However, if you are unable to complete the renewal process by the end of the grace period, your credential will lapse, and you will no longer hold an active ACC credential. In this case, you will have an additional 10 months to renew your credential, but you will be required to provide extra CCEs for each month that your credential has lapsed.
How to renew a lapsed ICF credential?
If you are unable to renew your ICF ACC credential before the expiration date, you have a 12-month period to renew your lapsed credential. During this time, you will be required to earn additional CCE units based on the number of months since your credential expiration date. For the first two months following expiration, you will need the standard 40 CCE units (with a minimum of 24 in Core Competencies). Starting from the third month, the number of required CCE units increases incrementally each month, up to a maximum of 52 CCE units (with a minimum of 31.2 in Core Competencies) if you submit your application in the twelfth month following expiration. If more than a year has passed since your credential expired, you will need to submit a new credential application rather than a renewal application.
How to renew an expired credential?
If more than a year has passed since your ICF credential expired, it is considered fully expired. To hold an active ICF credential again, you will need to submit a new credential application rather than completing the renewal process. This means that if your credential expired on or before December 31, 2020, you must start fresh with a new application to reinstate your credential or apply directly for the next credential level.
How much does the ICF ACC Renewal cost?
The renewal fee for your ICF ACC credential depends on your ICF membership status: $175 USD for members and $275 USD for non-members. This fee covers the administrative costs of processing your application. Payment is the final step—just click “checkout” to complete your renewal.
Can I renew my ACC credential online?
Yes, the entire ACC renewal process can be completed online. Simply log in to your ICF profile, access the “Credential Renewal Application,” and follow the steps to enter your CCE hours and submit your payment.
Do you need an ICF membership for ACC renewal?
No, ICF membership is not required for ACC renewal, but it’s highly beneficial. Membership gives you access to discounted renewal fees, free CCEUs, and opportunities for peer coaching—an excellent way to grow your skills and connect with fellow coaches.
What qualifies as mentor coaching?
Mentor coaching involves 10 hours of coaching, completed over at least three months, with a focus on refining your skills and bridging the gap between ACC and PCC levels. These hours must be earned within three years of your credential award or last renewal.
How to find a mentor coach for my ICF ACC renewal?
Finding a qualified ICF mentor coach is a crucial step in renewing your ICF ACC credential. When searching for a mentor coach, look for someone who holds an ICF credential at the PCC or MCC level, as they have the experience and expertise to guide you through the renewal process. You can start your search by visiting the ICF Mentor Coach Registry, which provides a list of qualified mentor coaches who have met the ICF’s standards.
Another option is to reach out to your local ICF Chapter or coaching community for recommendations. Many experienced coaches are happy to share their knowledge and support fellow coaches in their professional development. You can also ask for referrals from colleagues or coaches you trust, as they may have personal experience working with a mentor coach who could be a good fit for you.
When evaluating potential mentor coaches, consider their coaching style, areas of expertise, and availability. It’s important to find someone who aligns with your goals and can provide the guidance and support you need to successfully renew your ACC credential.
If you would like to partner with us to renew your ICF ACC credential and advancing your coaching career, feel free to contact us!
Tips and Advice to Renew Your ICF ACC Credential
Renewing your ICF ACC credential may seem daunting, but with proper planning and guidance, you can navigate the process with confidence.
The most important advice I can give you is to start early.
Familiarize yourself with the ACC renewal requirements and timeline, ensuring you have enough time to earn the necessary CCEs and complete your application. Stay organized by tracking your CCEs as you earn them, keeping detailed records of your training and mentor coaching hours.
When selecting training programs or courses for your CCEs, look for high-quality, ICF-accredited options that align with your coaching niche and areas for growth. Attend conferences, webinars, and workshops to expand your knowledge and connect with fellow coaches who can offer support and inspiration.
As you work with your mentor coach, be open to feedback and willing to step outside your comfort zone. Embrace the opportunity to refine your skills, explore new techniques, and deepen your understanding of the ICF Core Competencies.
Remember, the renewal process is not just about meeting requirements; it’s a chance to invest in your professional development and become the best coach you can be.
If you have questions or concerns along the way, don’t hesitate to reach out for support.
At Coaching Outside the Box, we’re committed to helping coaches thrive at every stage of their career. If you need assistance with your ICF ACC renewal, our team is here to help.
From finding the right mentor coach to navigating the application process, we offer personalised guidance and support to ensure your success. Contact us today to learn more about our services and take the first step towards renewing your credential with confidence.
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- ICF Credentials and Certification Programs: Understanding the Paths for ACC, PCC, MCC by Lucia Baldelli MCC
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