Sign In My Account Sign Out

Certification Process

Why Certify?
Testing Windows
Prepare for Exam
Apply for Exam

Your Mark of HR Excellence

Earn global recognition and showcase your HR expertise with SHRM-CP® and SHRM-SCP® certifications

These credentials validate your ability to address real-world challenges, setting you apart as a leader in human resources. Backed by SHRM, they offer flexible learning, competency-based testing, and universal relevance. Employers value these certifications as benchmarks of HR excellence, advancing careers while driving workplace success.

"Earning my SHRM-CP landed me a job with a Fortune 500 company less than a month after earning my certification."

Morgan Woods, SHRM-CP

Become a Recognized HR Leader

 

SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP set you apart as an HR expert, trusted to tackle both strategic and day-to-day workplace challenges.

Increase Your Earning Potential

 

SHRM-certified professionals earn up to 15% more, reflecting the high value employers place on SHRM credentials.

Advance Your HR Career

 

Most certified HR pros say SHRM certification was key to advancing their careers and gaining leadership opportunities.

Enhance Your HR Expertise

 

SHRM BASK® focuses on real-world skills, helping you apply best practices and strengthen your impact in any HR role.

Demonstrate Your Knowledge

 

SHRM certification validates your problem-solving skills and commitment to excellence in real-world HR practice.

Globally Respected & Applicable

 

Recognized globally, SHRM certification signals you’re prepared to lead in any industry or work environment.

Prepare for Your Exam

Whether you're earning SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP recertification credits, building inclusive employee programs, or enhancing your own professional toolkit, these items offer hands-on value grounded in SHRM's commitment to accredited education and practical HR solutions

SHRM Learning System for SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP -- Online With Print Best Seller
SHRM Learning System for SHRM-CP/SHRM-SCP -- Online With Print
SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP Certification Preparation Best Seller
Seminars
SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP Certification Preparation
Mastering the SHRM-CP Level Exam Questions Webinar
Events
Mastering the SHRM-CP Level Exam Questions Webinar
Best Practices for Exam Success Webinar
Events
Best Practices for Exam Success Webinar

Testing Window

The SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP are offered during two windows each year. When applying for the exam, you must apply during the application period that coincides with your testing window. Applications must be received by the standard deadline for each window.

  • Window 1
    Apply: Jan. 3rd - May. 16th
    Exam: May. 1st - Jul. 15th
  • Window 2
    Apply: Jun. 4th - Dec. 17th
    Exam: Dec. 1st - Feb. 15th

Choose Your SHRM Certification Application

Selecting the right SHRM certification depends on your career stage, experience, and HR responsibilities. SHRM offers two distinct certifications tailored to your professional needs.
Use the dropdown menus to explore your options.

Explore Your Options

  • Less than 3 years
  • 3 - 5 years
  • 5 - 10 years
  • 10 -15 years
  • 15+ years
  • Not in HR
  • Operational
  • Strategic
  • I will take in December 2025
  • I will take in 2026
Suggested For You
SHRM-CP Certification Exam | Exam Dates: Dec. 1st - Feb. 15th

SHRM Certified Professional

 

 

 

Ideal for HR professionals engaged in day-to-day operations or those pursuing a career in Human Resources.

 

  • Focus: HR operations, policy execution, and employee support
  • Eligibility: No degree/experience needed; ideal for early-career professionals
  • Team Orders*: Buy in bulk for your team; we’ll follow up to assign exams
  • You are purchasing Window 2: Exam dates between Dec. 1st - Feb. 15th

 

    • *Bulk purchases from MENA, Vietnam, and Malaysia are not available.

 

Select membership duration
Quantity
Quantity
Suggested For You
SHRM-SCP Certification Exam | Exam Dates: Dec. 1st - Feb. 15th

SHRM Senior Certified Professional

 

 

Designed for senior HR professionals leading strategic initiatives and aligning HR strategies with organizational goals.

 

  • Focus: Strategic HR, policy development, and enterprise planning
  • Eligibility: 3+ years in strategic HR or SHRM-CP held for 3 years
  • Team Orders*: Buy in bulk for your team; we’ll follow up to assign exams
  • You are purchasing Window 2: Exam dates between Dec. 1st - Feb. 15th

 

    • *Bulk purchases from MENA, Vietnam, and Malaysia are not available.
Select membership duration
Quantity
Quantity
Certify Your Team with SHRM — Save on 20+ Exams

Certify Your Team with SHRM — Save on 20+ Exams

Strengthen your HR capabilities and drive business results by certifying your team with SHRM. Organizations benefit from a more strategic, compliant, and effective HR function, while employees gain the skill and credibility to lead with confidence. Group discounts available for 20+ exams. Contact us for pricing and next steps

Get Started

© 2025 SHRM. All Rights Reserved

SHRM provides content as a service to its readers and members. It does not offer legal advice, and cannot guarantee the accuracy or suitability of its content for a particular purpose. Disclaimer