Professional Development Accreditation in Public Relations Renewing Your APR Simplified Steps to Renew Your APR

By Tove Tupper, APR, northwest region representative to the NSPRA Accreditation Committee I March 2025

Renewing your Accreditation in Public Relations (APR) ensures you stay current in the field while reinforcing your commitment to ethical communication. We've put together a quick guide to help make the process seamless, with information on strategies for tracking CEUs, diversifying professional development activities and leveraging APR resources effectively. In addition, maintaining an active NSPRA membership at the Professional or Professional Partner level is required for renewal.

What You Need

Earn 15 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) over three years:

• At least 7 CEUs from professional development activities
• 1 CEU from ethics training

How to Earn & Track CEUs

• Advance the profession – Mentor, teach, or evaluate APR candidates
• Sharpen your skills – Attend seminars, earn a degree, or publish articles
• Engage in ethics – Complete ethics webinars or training

Track your CEUs in MyAPR and set reminders to stay on schedule.

The Four-Step Renewal Process

1. Log In – Access the renewal portal.
2. Track Activities – Record CEUs as you complete them.
3. Review Progress – Use the system’s tools to check your status.
4. Submit & Pay – Pay the $75 fee within three months of renewal.

Pro Tips for a Smooth Renewal

• Start early – Spread activities over three years.
• Be strategic – Align CEUs with your career goals.
• Engage & diversify – Attend conferences, webinars, and publish work.
• Connect with APR pros – Leverage the community for resources and support.

Renewing your APR is an opportunity to grow professionally and stay engaged in the industry. For details, visit the APR Renewal Page.