SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP Certifications Require Renewal Every Three Years

Guide to Recertifying Your SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP Credential

According to AIHR: To maintain their standing as HR professionals, individuals holding either the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certification must complete a recertification process every three years. This recurring requirement ensures that certified experts stay current with evolving industry standards and best practices.

Two Paths to Recertification

Professionals have two options for renewing their certification:

• Earning 60 Professional Development Credits (PDCs);
• Retaking the certification exam.

Those who choose the exam route can do so during the final year of their three-year cycle, which ends on the last day of their birth month in the third year. After the cycle expires, a 60-day grace period allows individuals to meet outstanding requirements, though an additional $75 processing fee applies. If you earn more than 60 PDCs, you can carry over up to 20 credits to the next cycle.

Understanding PDC Credits

PDCs earned over the three-year period fall into three categories:

• Advance Your Education;
• Advance Your Organization;
• Advance Your Profession.

Every 15 minutes of learning activity earns 0.25 PDCs, and reading an approved professional book provides 3 PDCs per title. Under the Advance Your Organization category, completing an HR project of 40+ hours yields 10 PDCs, 80+ hours earns 20 PDCs, and 120+ hours gives 30 PDCs. The maximum PDCs per cycle for both the Advance Your Organization and Advance Your Profession categories is 30 each. Activities under Advance Your Profession include presenting at HR events, publishing HR-related content, and volunteering.

A SHRM Recertification Provider is an organization approved by SHRM to award PDCs. AIHR is recognized as such a provider, with each of its certification programs requiring roughly 30–40 hours to complete. SHRM membership reduces recertification costs by $45, though recertification fees are non-refundable. It is essential to keep documentation for all recertification activities for at least six months after the cycle ends to verify completed requirements and earned credits.

Recertifying SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP credentials underscores the value of ongoing professional development in human resources. It not only validates a specialist’s qualifications but also elevates the overall expertise within this rapidly changing field.

In summary, renewing SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP certifications is a critical part of an HR professional's growth, demanding a structured approach to earning the required credits and fulfilling specified criteria.

As you plan for your recertification, it's important to consider the financial implications of maintaining your SHRM credentials. The costs associated with SHRM certification, which can range significantly, are a crucial factor in your career development. Understanding these expenses can help you make informed decisions about your professional growth. For a detailed overview of the costs involved in advancing your career through SHRM certification, check out our article on certification expenses.