ITIL V5: Everything you need to know about the new version in 2026

Essowè Abalo

Artificial intelligence, automation, and digital transformation are rapidly changing IT service management. To address these changes, ITIL V5, launched in February 2026, modernizes the leading ITSM framework by integrating AI, unifying the management of digital products and services, and simplifying certification paths.

What's new in ITIL V5 ? How does it differ from ITIL 4? How can you successfully transition? In this guide, discover the major changes in ITIL V5, its certification system, and best practices to prepare for your skills development.

ITIL V5 (Information Technology Infrastructure Library Version 5) is the new generation of the international IT service management (ITSM) framework. Designed to meet the current challenges of organizations, this version adopts a more holistic approach by bringing together the management of digital products, services and value creation.

One of its key developments is its AI-native approach, which integrates artificial intelligence, automation, and their governance directly into the framework. Rather than a break with ITIL 4, ITIL V5 builds upon its foundations while evolving them to meet the needs of businesses in 2026.

ITIL V5 builds upon ITIL 4, retaining its core principles while evolving them to address new technological challenges. This version places greater emphasis on artificial intelligence, digital product management, and improved integration between business and IT teams.

A product and service-oriented approach: ITIL V5 unifies the management of digital products and IT services within a single framework.
Integrated artificial intelligence: the framework offers best practices for using AI and automation effectively and responsibly.
A better user experience: the needs of customers, employees and stakeholders are placed more at the heart of value creation.
A simplified certification path: the new certifications offer a clearer progression according to profiles and professional objectives.
A forward-looking vision: ITIL V5 takes into account the challenges of digital transformation, agility and sustainability that organizations face.

Critère	ITIL 4	ITIL V5
Approche principale	Service Value System (SVS) avec une focalisation sur la gestion des services IT.	ITIL Value System (IVS) avec une approche unifiée des produits et services numériques.
Modèle opérationnel	Service Value Chain composé de 6 activités principales.	Product and Service Lifecycle Model (PSLM) avec 8 activités : Discover, Design, Acquire, Build, Transition, Operate, Deliver, Support.
Intégration de l’IA	Pertinence émergente, intégration non structurée.	Positionnement « AI-native » avec un modèle de capacités IA (modèle 6C) et une gouvernance intégrée.
Pratiques de gestion	34 pratiques de gestion.	Conserve les pratiques fondamentales et ajoute des pratiques autour de l’IA et de l’automatisation.
Public cible	Équipes ITSM principalement.	IT et l’ensemble des fonctions de l’organisation (RH, finance, juridique, facilities, etc.).
Schéma de certification	Foundation → ITIL Managing Professional → Strategic Leader → Master (modules d’extension séparés).	Foundation → 3 parcours rationalisés (Practice Manager / Managing Professional / Strategic Leader) + Extension AI Governance → Master.
Focus expérience	Amélioration de l’expérience utilisateur.	Expérience placée au cœur de la création de valeur (client, employé, parties prenantes).
Durabilité	Mentionnée mais non centrale.	Principe transversal intégré dans l’ensemble des pratiques.
Silos organisationnels	Réduction encouragée.	Élimination active via la fusion produit-service et un flux de valeur continu.
Date de lancement	Février 2019.	Février 2026.
Coexistence	—	ITIL 4 et ITIL V5 coexistent en parallèle pendant la période de transition.

ITIL V5 offers a simpler and more progressive certification path, allowing professionals to develop their skills according to their level of experience and career goals.

The entry certification which presents the fundamental concepts, the ITIL value system, essential practices and principles of service management.

Aimed at operational professionals, this certification covers the key practices of ITIL V5, including Monitor, Support and Fulfill (MSF), Plan, Implement and Control (PIC), Collaborate, Assure and Improve (CAI) and Transformation.

This course is aimed at managers and executives wishing to strengthen their skills in product management, services, customer experience and organizational transformation.

Designed for leaders and decision-makers, it helps to align corporate strategy, governance and digital service management.

The highest level of ITIL certification, reserved for professionals who have demonstrated advanced expertise in the application of ITIL best practices.

The ITIL V5 Foundation certification is the first step in the ITIL V5 journey. It validates your understanding of the fundamental concepts, essential practices, and the ITIL value system.

Question type: Multiple choice questions
Number of questions: 40
Duration: 60 minutes (90 minutes for some non-English speaking candidates)
Success rate: 26 correct answers out of 40 (65%)
Format: Online under supervision or at an approved testing center
Open book: No

The ITIL Value System (IVS)
The digital product and service lifecycle (PSLM)
ITIL management practices
Value creation and user experience
The fundamentals of artificial intelligence and automation
Roles and responsibilities in ITIL V5

Take an official ITIL V5 training course.
Practice with mock exams.
Understand the concepts rather than just memorizing them.
Familiarize yourself with the new ITIL V5 terminology.
Manage your time during the test by spending approximately 1 minute 30 seconds per question.

Are you already ITIL 4 certified? Good news: you don't need to start your training from scratch. ITIL V5 offers transition solutions to leverage the skills you've already acquired.

Aimed at ITIL 4 Foundation certified professionals, this course presents the main new features of ITIL V5, including the integration of AI, the PSLM model and new practices.

Holders of the ITIL 4 Managing Professional certification can access a specific transition path to move to ITIL V5 without retaking all the modules.

ITIL 4 certifications remain recognized and valid. You can continue to use them while preparing for your transition to ITIL V5 when your organization or career development requires it.

Adopter ITIL V5, c'est préparer votre organisation aux nouveaux défis de la transformation digitale. Grâce à son approche moderne, ce référentiel aide les entreprises à améliorer la qualité des services, renforcer leur agilité et tirer parti de l'intelligence artificielle de manière responsable.

Parmi les principaux avantages d'ITIL V5 :

Better alignment between business objectives and IT services.
Native integration of AI and automation.
Enhanced collaboration between product and service teams.
A better experience for users and customers.
An internationally recognized certification that enhances your career.

ITIL V5 marks a new stage in the evolution of IT service management. Building on the foundations of ITIL 4 while integrating the latest technologies and practices, this version meets the needs of modern organizations.

Whether you are an IT professional, manager or executive, obtaining an ITIL V5 certification is an excellent way to develop your skills and remain competitive in a constantly evolving digital environment.

Training in ITIL V5 today means investing in recognized expertise and preparing for the future of your career.

VII. Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between ITIL 4 and ITIL V5?

ITIL V5 is an evolution of ITIL 4, not a complete overhaul. It natively integrates AI, unifies the management of digital products and services, and offers a simplified certification scheme. ITIL 4 remains valid, but ITIL V5 better reflects the realities of 2026.

Does ITIL V5 completely replace ITIL 4?

No. The two versions coexist in parallel during a transition period. ITIL 4 certified professionals can progress through transition pathways without losing their acquired skills.

When is the ITIL Foundation V5 certification available?

The ITIL Foundation certification (Version 5) has been available since February 12, 2026, followed by advanced modules between March and May 2026.

Is ITIL V5 only for IT teams?

No. ITIL V5 is designed for all functions within the organization (IT, HR, finance, legal, facilities) that manage digital services and wish to improve their value creation.

How is AI integrated into ITIL V5?

ITIL V5 offers a structured AI capability model (6C model), responsible governance practices, and recommendations to automate and optimize decision-making while controlling risks.

How much does ITIL V5 certification cost?

Costs vary depending on the training provider and the chosen course. This training is fully funded by your Personal Training Account (CPF).

Is my ITIL 4 certification still valid?

Yes, your ITIL 4 certification remains valid and recognized. You can choose to upgrade to ITIL V5 via the Bridge or Transition pathways, or continue using ITIL 4 as needed for your professional requirements.

What is the pass rate for the ITIL V5 Foundation exam?

The average pass rate is between 75% and 85% for candidates who have completed formal training. Thorough preparation, including practice exams, significantly increases your chances of success.