Practicing Certificate & Professional Licensing
The Institute maintains a Professional Licensing and Practicing Certificate Regime to regulate the practice of local governance and development as a recognized profession. Continuous Professional Development (CPD) is a mandatory requirement to maintain professional standing.
The CLGDP Designation
No Member shall hold themselves out as a Chartered Local Governance and Development Professional (CLGDP) or engage in regulated professional practice unless duly licensed by the Institute.
A Practicing Certificate is mandatory for Members who provide consultancy services, advisory or policy services, or engage in independent professional practice within the local governance and development sector.
Licensing Requirements
To obtain and maintain an active Practicing Certificate, a professional must:
- Hold Full Membership (MCILGD) or Fellowship (FCILGD) status.
- Be in good standing with the Institute, with no pending disciplinary actions.
- Meet the mandatory Continuous Professional Development (CPD) requirements outlined in our CPD framework.
- Adhere strictly to the Code of Conduct and Code of Ethics.
Mandatory Annual CPD Requirements
Active members across different professional grades must fulfill structured annual Continuous Professional Development (CPD) requirements to maintain licensing and good standing:
| Professional Grade | Required Annual CPD Hours | Evidence Standards & Scope | Compulsory Annual Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fellow (FCILGD) | 40 CPD Hours | Must include at least 15 hours of structured executive seminars, policy briefings, or peer mentoring. | December 31 annually |
| Full Member (MCILGD) | 30 CPD Hours | At least 10 hours of structured training modules, certified workshops, or technical courses. | December 31 annually |
| Associate Member (ACILGD) | 20 CPD Hours | Focussed on core professional development competencies and practical governance skills. | December 31 annually |
| Graduate Member | 15 CPD Hours | Introductory modules, career mentoring workshops, and verified self-study hours. | December 31 annually |
CPD Verification & Compliance
Detailed annual CPD guidelines, structured evidence logs, and submission portals are undergoing administrative configuration. Members are required to maintain a manual log of their CPD activities and submit evidence to the Registrar's office by the annual deadline. Failing to meet CPD baselines or make a timely submission may result in temporary suspension of post-nominal rights and practicing certificates.
Public Register
The Institute maintains a public register of all licensed practitioners. This ensures transparency and allows employers, government agencies, and the public to verify the credentials and standing of any professional claiming the CLGDP designation.

