The ECDL/ICDL programme is administered on a global basis by the ECDL Foundation (ECDL-F). The Foundation is a not-for-profit organization whose role it is to promote, develop and certify computer skills and IT knowledge.

The ECDL/ICDL consists of seven modules:

1. Basic Concepts of IT
2. Using a Computer and Managing Files
3. Word Processing
4. Spreadsheets
5. Databases
6. Presentation
7. Information and Communication

When a candidate registers to start the ECDL/ICDL certification process he/she receives a Skills Card on which the progress through the seven tests is recorded. When all seven modules are completed the candidate receives the European/International Computer Driving Licence.

The European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) is an internationally recognised computer skills certification programme spanning some sixty countries.

Also known as the International Computer Driving Licence (ICDL) for countries outside of Europe, the programme is enjoying phenomenal world-wide recognition and growth.

The ECDL concept originated in Finland where the Finnish Information Processing Association introduced the Finnish Computer Driving Licence in 1994.

Shortly thereafter, the Council of European Professional Informatics Societies (CEPIS) created a task force in 1995, supported by funding from the European Commission, to examine how to raise IT skill levels in industry throughout Europe.

The task force identified the Finnish Computer Driving Licence as a potentially suitable vehicle and carried out Pilot Tests during 1995 and early 1996. Following, a new test was launched as the European Computer Driving Licence (ECDL) in August 1996 in Sweden and subsequently rolled out across Europe and internationally.

Online testing is carried out by prior appointment and results are available immediately.