The short answer is: yes, but strategically. ITIL 5 does not arrive to invalidate what you learned in ITIL 4; it expands that knowledge for a landscape where Artificial Intelligence (AI) and digital complexity take center stage. If you already hold an ITIL 4 certification, you are already halfway there.

In this article, we’ll explore the nuances of this transition, understand why ITIL evolved, and see how you can use this new knowledge to accelerate your career in the age of Artificial Intelligence.

Also read: The Definitive Guide to ITIL 5

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Understanding the landscape: Is ITIL 4 still worth it?

Before looking to the future, we need to validate the present. ITIL 4 reshaped the market by introducing concepts such as the Service Value System (SVS) and the four dimensions of service management.

Is ITIL 4 still worth it in 2025?

Absolutely. ITIL 4 remains the structural governance foundation for thousands of organizations worldwide. In addition, for those already certified in ITIL 4 Foundation, the good news is that PeopleCert recognizes this certification as a prerequisite for ITIL v5 advanced modules. In other words, your current investment is the foundation for the next level.

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What is ITIL 4 certification and its role in the market?

ITIL 4 certification focuses on value co-creation and the integration of agile practices into ITSM (IT Service Management). It prepared organizations to move away from viewing isolated processes and toward understanding end-to-end value streams.

The 34 ITIL 4 practices and their current relevance

The 34 management practices (such as Incident Management, Change Management, and IT Asset Management) remain essential. In the new ITIL, these practices are retained and refined, ensuring operational stability while innovation takes place.

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Differences between ITIL 4 and ITIL Version 5: what really changes?

The major shift is not in structure, but in context. The digital world has changed dramatically with the rise of large language models (LLMs) and the demand for more resilient operations.

ITIL 4 vs. ITIL Version 5: evolution or rupture?

This is an evolution. The new ITIL incorporates proven models from previous versions while focusing on being AI-native and complexity-ready. It helps professionals make informed decisions in environments where technology evolves faster than business needs.

What ITIL Version 5 brings compared to ITIL 4

• Focus on Digital Products: While earlier versions emphasized services, ITIL Version 5 integrates product and service management holistically.
• Artificial Intelligence: Introduces the AI Capability Model (6C): Creation, Curation, Clarification, Cognition, Communication, and Coordination.
• Digital Experience: User experience (UX) and customer experience (CX) become the core of product design.

Is ITIL 5 a replacement for ITIL 4 or a continuation?

It is a continuation. PeopleCert has confirmed that ITIL 4 and ITIL 5 will coexist for a minimum of 12 months, allowing professionals to complete their current learning journeys.

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I already have ITIL 4: when does it make sense to move to ITIL Version 5?

If you are already an ITIL 4 Managing Professional (MP) or Strategic Leader (SL), moving to ITIL 5 is the natural step to stay relevant.

Professionals who benefit most from ITIL Version 5

IT leaders, digital product managers, and governance specialists who need to address the ethical and efficient implementation of AI within organizations.

Does ITIL Version 5 make sense for ITSM, Service Desk, and Governance roles?

Yes—especially due to the new extension module: AI Governance, which focuses on establishing policies and controls to ensure AI is used responsibly and in line with regulatory standards.

When ITIL 4 is still sufficient

For professionals in organizations with low digital maturity or those still consolidating basic ITSM processes, ITIL 4 continues to deliver all the value needed for operations.

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Job market impact: ITIL 4 and ITIL Version 5 on your career

ITIL certifications have historically been one of the strongest competitive differentiators on a technology professional’s résumé.

How much does an ITIL-certified professional earn?

While salaries vary by region, professionals certified at advanced levels (such as the new ITIL Master) typically hold director-level or senior management roles, with compensation well above the technical market average.

ITIL as a competitive differentiator in IT roles

In a sea of technical professionals, those who understand governance and business value stand out. ITIL 5 signals to the market that you not only know the technology, but can manage AI-driven complexity.

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Costs, exams, and training: is the investment worth it?

Investing in certification is investing in career security.

ITIL 4 Foundation via virtual training and exams in English

Remote exams and English-language materials make the journey much more accessible for all professionals.

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Is it worth investing in IT and certifications like ITIL?

The technology sector is one of the few that continues to grow even during economic downturns.

Is it worth investing in IT today?

Yes. With accelerated digital transformation, demand keeps rising for professionals who can organize “technological chaos” using frameworks like ITIL.

ITIL certifications as a long-term strategy

Unlike specific tools that may become obsolete, ITIL teaches mindset and management—transferable, durable skills.

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ITIL 5 and the future of ITSM

ITIL 5 is not just about “fixing computers”; it’s about sustainability and resilience.

ITIL 5 as a foundation for agile and digital environments

The new product and service lifecycle (Discover, Design, Acquire, Build, Transition, Operate, Deliver, Support) is designed to be iterative, enabling rapid responses to market change.

Integrating ITIL 5 with DevOps, Agile, and modern practices

ITIL 5 integrates naturally with DevOps and Agile, breaking down silos and focusing on continuous delivery of software and value.

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ITIL 4 or ITIL Version 5: how to make the best decision?

Quick decision checklist:

• Already have ITIL 4 Foundation? Proceed to ITIL 5 advanced modules.
• Have ITIL v3? Move directly to ITIL 5 Foundation.
• Does your organization actively use AI? Invest in ITIL v5 and the AI Governance module.

Recommended strategy for those who already have ITIL 4

There is no need to retake the Foundation exam. The ideal path is to choose one of the new tracks—ITIL Practice Manager (PM), Managing Professional (MP), or Strategic Leader (SL)—with a focus on the universal ITIL Transformation module.

An ITIL Foundation (Version 5) bridge exam may be offered to over one million candidates who have taken ITIL 4. It will be a 30-minute exam, focused solely on the changes, with a closed textbook and no consultation allowed.

If you are an ITIL 4 Managing Professional, you can take a 5-day Transition course (0.5 days Foundation, 3 days Product, Service, Experience, 1.5 days Transformation). Prerequisites: ITIL 4 Managing Professional, ITIL 4 Master, ITIL v3 Expert, ITIL v3 Master.

If you purchased the ITIL 4 Foundation exam and haven’t yet redeemed your voucher, you can exchange it for the ITIL 5 Foundation exam. If you redeemed your voucher after September 2025, you can also make the exchange.

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Conclusion: Is ITIL Version 5 worth it after ITIL 4?

ITIL 5 is a passport to the future of IT management. It does not replace your existing knowledge; it turbocharges it with the tools needed to lead in the age of Artificial Intelligence. If you’re aiming for leadership roles and want to guide organizations through digital transformation, investing in ITIL 5 is essential.

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Frequently Asked Questions about ITIL 4 and ITIL Version 5 (FAQ)

Is ITIL 4 worth it?
Yes. It is the essential foundation for modern service management and serves as a prerequisite for ITIL 5.

How much does an ITIL professional earn?
Certified managers can earn from BRL 10,000 to over BRL 25,000, depending on certification level and experience.

How much does ITIL 4 cost?
Prices vary, but include official training and the PeopleCert exam fee. At PMG Academy, we offer special conditions for your journey.

Is it worth investing in IT?
Absolutely. It’s the field with the largest skills gap and the strongest long-term career prospects.

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Ready to take the next step in your career and master ITIL 5?
Discover PMG Academy’s courses and prepare with true subject-matter experts. Leave a comment below—have you already started your transition to the new version?