SHRM Certification » Recertification » Start Recertification Process

Start Recertification Process

There are two ways to recertify your SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP: earn 60 professional development credits (PDCs) within a 3-year recertification cycle or retake the certification exam.

Begin the recertification process by logging into your certification portal. Here you’ll be able to submit recertification credits, apply to retake the exam, review the recertification handbook, and access the recertification application.

Certification Portal
SUBMITTING YOUR RECERTIFICATION CREDITS

As a certified SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP, you will have an online profile and be able to track your PDCs throughout your 3-year recertification cycle ending on the last day of your birth month. Once your recertification application is complete and has been approved, your next 3-year recertification cycle will begin from your existing end date. 

You may submit your completed recertification application one year into your 3-year recertification cycle. If you complete your recertification cycle early, your end date will not change, and you may carry over up to 20 PDCs towards your new cycle.

Example: 

  • Initial certification cycle: May 2016 (took exam)–July 2019 (birth month)
  • Recertified: December 2018
  • Next 3-year recertification cycle: July 2019–July 2022


RECERTIFICATION BY EXAMINATION

You have the option to maintain your SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP by retaking the certification exam. If you choose to do so, you must:

  • Take the exam no earlier than within the last 12 months prior to the end of your 3-year recertification cycle.
  • Recertify only at the certification level you currently hold.
  • Complete the exam application process.
  • Pay the full examination fee.
  • If you plan on retaking the exam to renew your certification please contact certification@shrm.org for additional assistance.
If you do not pass the exam for recertification, your credential will be removed, and you will have to reapply and take the exam during a future exam window to become certified again. Additionally, you will not be able to pursue recertification through PDCs should you be unsuccessful in passing the exam for recertification.