ICDL (International Computer Driving Licence)

ICDL (International Computer Driving Licence) is the designation for a world-wide set of certification programs for computer literacy, knowledge and ability. The ICDL is issued and guaranteed by the ECDL Foundation. In Europe, ICDL is known under the abbreviation ECDL (European Computer Driving Licence).

The ECDL / ICDL programs include a number of educational and certification segments:

The ECDL / ICDL program:

• ICDL Start Certificate – international documentation certifying the computer (digital) literacy of the holder. It certifies that the holder of this certificate is digitally literate, i.e. that he or she has mastered the basics required for work with a computer or information and communication technologies (ICT) respectively, in the most common areas of their usage.
• ICDL Certificate – international documentation certifying the computer (digital) qualifications of the holder ( digital competence). It certifies that the holder of this certificate is fully digitally qualified, i.e. that he or she is completely prepared to effectively use information and communication technology (ICT) as required by the job market.

The ECDL / ICDL Advanced program:

• ICDL Advanced Certificate – international documentation certifying the professional computer user knowledge and abilities of the holder (digital excellence) in the respective area. The holder of this certificate is able to use office applications in the respective area purposefully, effectively and at a professional level.
• ICDL Expert Certificate – international certification of the professional user knowledge and abilities of the holder ( digital excellence). The holder of this certificate is able to use office applications purposefully, effectively and at a professional level in all areas.

Use of ICDL in practice:

For organizations, the ownership of a certificate by an employee or an applicant serves as proof that the holder has reached a certain level of qualification in the area of computer literacy; hence it is often required for certain job positions and certificate holders mention their certification on their resumes. ECDL / ICDL certification is accepted internationally and has world-wide procedural standardization. It is objective and independent. Its transferability from state to state is a great advantage for the holders. For organizations and companies it serves to guarantee a unified level of qualification of its employees.