SHRM certification is the only HR certification offered by the world's largest HR membership organization. It is the only competency-based HR certification focused on the knowledge and behaviors needed to be proficient in the HR profession. As the industry leader in HR professional development, SHRM supports more than 100,000 employers, representing 140 million employees worldwide.
SHRM Certification
Be the Best. Get the Best.
It's time to prove you're prepared for the pivotal role an HR leader plays in transforming the workplace.
The SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certifications measure your ability to apply HR principles to real-life situations. No other HR certification compares.
Universally Applicable
The best HR certification is the one that sets you apart from the crowd. The SHRM-CP® and SHRM-SCP® are recognized and valued by employers in all industries as the premier human resources certifications.
Flexible Online Learning
Study on your own or with an instructor and earn your HR certification online with remote or in-person testing.
Competency-Based
This first-ever behavioral competency-based HR certification focuses on the core set of competencies and knowledge outlined in the SHRM Body of Applied Skills and Knowledge® (SHRM BASK®).
Backed By SHRM
SHRM certification is the only HR certification offered by the world's largest HR membership organization. As the industry leader in HR professional development, SHRM has supported more than 100,000 employers representing 140 million employees worldwide.
Benefits of SHRM Certification
Earning your SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP credential makes you a recognized expert and leader in the HR field.
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Enhance Your HR Expertise
HR professionals who earn the SHRM Certification report significantly higher levels of credibility as HR professionals.
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Increase Your Earning Potential
Those who earn the SHRM Certification report earning salaries 14% to 15% higher than peers who have not earned the SHRM Certification.
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Advance Your HR Career
HR professionals who earn a SHRM certification report it was a key factor in their career advancement.
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Demonstrate Your Commitment
SHRM Certified HR pros report significantly higher levels of career success, respect from colleagues and commitment to the HR profession.
Earning my SHRM-CP landed me a job with a Fortune 500 company less than a month after earning my certification.
SHRM Certification FAQs
SHRM certification credential holders are recognized as experts and leaders in the HR field. Those who hold a SHRM certification designation report:
- Significantly higher levels of credibility.
- Salaries that are 35 percent higher than peers without the credential.*
- Higher levels of career success.
Most hiring managers list SHRM's certification as the preferred qualification for HR hires, and those who earn the SHRM certification report it was a key factor in their career advancement.
*2022 HR Careers study
The SHRM Certified Professional (SHRM-CP) is for individuals performing HR-related duties or pursuing a career in Human Resource Management. Most applicants, 77%, take the SHRM-CP first. The SHRM Senior Certified Professional (SHRM-SCP) is for individuals who do strategic-level HR-related work.
SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP exams are designed to assess an individual’s competence as an HR practitioner in the ever-changing world of work. HR work can be challenging, and the exams appropriately reflect that challenge. However, solid study and preparation can increase the chances of success. A proven method of preparation is to start with the SHRM BASK (the blueprint for the exam) and pair it with the SHRM Learning System. Leverage additional SHRM resources (prep courses, study guides, practice item workbooks, etc.) to take your preparation experience to the next level. The SHRM Learning System and other resources are available through the SHRM Store.
Applicants generally decide to apply and study about 3-4 months before taking the exam. Exam appointments are scheduled for 4 hours and consist of 3 hours and 40 minutes of actual testing and a total of 20 minutes of pre- and post-exam activities. Ninety percent of candidates complete the exam in less than the allotted time, working at their natural pace and without needing to rush.