--- title: Why are there limits on how many hours I can earn in some PDH categories? description: Why are there limits on how many hours I can earn in some PDH categories? --- [Skip to content](https://help.ifm.org/why-are-there-limits-on-how-many-hours-i-can-earn-in-some-pdh-categories#main-content) [![IFM-logo-RGB-RT.png\]](https://help.ifm.org/hs-fs/hubfs/IFM%20Logos/IFM-logo-RGB-RT.png?height=41&name=IFM-logo-RGB-RT.png)](https://www.ifm.org/) Open main navigation Close main navigation Hello. How can we help you? - There are no suggestions because the search field is empty. 1. [Help Center Home](https://help.ifm.org/?hsLang=en) 2. [Certification](https://help.ifm.org/certification?hsLang=en) 3. [General Information](https://help.ifm.org/certification?hsLang=en#general-information) # Why are there limits on how many hours I can earn in some PDH categories? Category limits (maximum hours that can be earned) are a common practice in professional credentialing. They ensure that certification renewal reflects a well-rounded commitment to continuous learning while still recognizing diverse professional contributions like teaching, research, and volunteer service. The goal of maintenance of certification is to ensure that, while your contributions to the profession are recognized, you also spend time learning new information and keeping up with advancements in the field through continuing education. 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