The interest in Europe in the Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) is growing rapidly. RPL is seen as a useful instrument in the context of lifelong learning, employability and social inclusion. The underlying principle of RPL is that initial education is no longer enough for the whole of an individual’s working & learning life. The acquisition of knowledge per se is becoming less important – it is now more a matter of developing competences. The question remains whether RPL can fulfil its promise and act as the bridge between modern working and learning processes. In this way it might be the single most important instrument for guiding individuals in the modern learning society.