How do I renew my ICF ACC credential?
Practical guide
If you’re an ICF ACC-credentialed coach whose certification is about to expire, or if you’ve already missed your renewal date, this guide is for you.
Renewing your ICF ACC credential is a key step in maintaining your professional credibility and continuing your growth as a coach. Yet, many coaches only learn about the renewal requirements when their deadline is fast approaching. Even though the ICF sends reminders a few months in advance, it’s easy for those emails to slip through your inbox, and before you know it, your credential may lapse.
In this practical guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the ICF ACC renewal process, from checking your expiration date to earning your Continuing Coach Education (CCE) hours, meeting the mentor coaching requirements, and avoiding common mistakes.
Whether you’re renewing on time or catching up after your credential has expired, this step-by-step overview will help you stay organized, confident, and ready to maintain your ICF certification without stress.
How do I renew my ICF ACC credential?
ICF ACC renewal requirements
But what do you need to do to renew your ICF ACC?
To be eligible for ACC renewal, you must meet the following requirements:
- Complete at least 40 Continuing Coach Education (CCE) credits in the three years since the initial award of your credential or since your last renewal.
- At least 24 CCEs must be in Core Competencies
- At least 3 CCEs must be in coaching ethics. You can obtain these by completing the (free!) ICF’s Complimentary Ethics course online.
- 10 hours of Mentor Coaching with an eligible mentor coach over a minimum of three months in the three years since the initial award of your credential or since your last recertification.
- The remaining 16 CCEs can be in Resource Development or Core Competencies.
It’s important to note that if your mentor coach holds an ACC credential, they are required to have re-certified at least once. The ICF strongly encourages credential renewal candidates to verify a mentor coach’s credential status and eligibility using the ICF Verify a Coach directory.
What is the Timeline for an ICF Credential Renewal?
Planning your ICF ACC renewal in advance is essential to avoid any interruption in your credentialed status. Here’s what you need to know about timing:
- Review time: ICF typically takes 6–8 weeks to review and approve renewal applications.
- When to apply: You can submit your renewal up to 10 months before your credential expiration date.
- Why apply early: This gives you time to gather all required documents, complete your Continuing Coach Education (CCE) hours, and avoid last-minute stress.
Best practice: Submit your renewal well before your expiration date to ensure a smooth transition and 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.
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.
Months of Delay | Total CCEs Required | Minimum Core Competency | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
0–2 (grace period) | 40 | 24 | standard requirements |
3 months | 41.2 | 24.72 | +1.2 additional hours |
4 months | 42.4 | 25.44 | … |
… up to 12 months | 52 | 31.2 | maximum required |
>12 months | new application required | — | no renewal possible |
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 credential again, you’ll need to submit a new application rather than completing the renewal process.
In this case, you must start fresh with a new credential application to reinstate your status, or apply directly for the next credential level if you meet the requirements.
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.
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.
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.
Not sure which option is right for you?
Book a call and we’ll help you find the perfect fit for your coaching journey.
FAQ
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.
What happens if I want to upgrade but my ACC is expiring before I’m ready?
If your ACC credential is expiring and you plan to upgrade to PCC but aren’t ready yet, the grace period still applies: however, once it ends, your ACC credential will lapse.
In other words, you must either renew your ACC or lose it before applying for the PCC.
Can I renew my ACC credential online?
Yes, the entire 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!
Do CCE hours earned for ACC renewal count toward PCC?
Yes, many CCEs earned for your ACC renewal can also count toward your PCC credential application, as long as they meet the ICF requirements and fall within the accepted time frame. Always verify that your training provider specifies whether the course is ICF-accredited for both levels.
If I upgrade to PCC, do I still need to renew my ACC?
No. Once your PCC credential is approved, it replaces your ACC, so there’s no need to renew the ACC separately. However, if your upgrade process takes longer than expected, it’s safer to renew your ACC to avoid any lapse in your credentialed status.
How are renewal payments handled (late payments or different currencies)?
Payments for ICF renewals are made directly through the ICF online portal via major credit cards. If payment is delayed past your expiration date, your renewal will be subject to the grace period and late CCE requirements. Fees are charged in USD, and your bank or card provider will automatically convert your local currency.
Can my mentor coach be ACC-level, or do they need to be PCC/MCC?
A mentor coach with an ACC credential is eligible only if they have successfully renewed their credential at least once. However, ICF strongly recommends working with a PCC or MCC mentor coach for a richer developmental experience.
Does group mentor coaching count toward the requirement?
Yes, group mentor coaching is accepted by ICF, as long as it meets the 10-hour minimum requirement over at least three months and follows the ICF Core Competencies framework. Up to 7 of the 10 hours may be completed in a group setting; the remaining 3 hours must be one-on-one.
Which documents should I keep for my renewal, and for how long?
You should keep all CCE certificates, mentor coaching proof, and training records for at least three years after your renewal. This documentation may be requested by ICF in case of a random audit.
Can I submit courses in a language other than English?
Yes. ICF accepts CCE documentation in other languages, but if the course provider is not ICF-accredited, you may need to include a brief translation or course summary in English showing how the content aligns with the ICF Core Competencies.
Related articles
- ICF Mentor Coaching: Everything You Need to Know by Lucia Baldelli MCC
- New ICF ACC Exam: Preparation, Sample Questions, Cost by Lucia Baldelli MCC
- ICF Credentialing Exam: How to Prepare and Pass by Lucia Baldelli MCC
- ICF Credentials and Certification Programs: Understanding the Paths for ACC, PCC, MCC by Lucia Baldelli MCC
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