PHR Certification Renewal

Congratulations on earning your Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification! This valuable credential showcases your expertise and commitment to the HR profession. But wait—did you know your hard-earned certification doesn’t last forever? 

That’s right! You need to renew it regularly to keep it active and continue reaping its professional benefits. PHR certification renewal is a crucial process that ensures you stay current with the latest HR practices, laws, and trends. 

As you approach the renewal process, it’s essential to keep your knowledge up-to-date, and Prepsaret can help you with that. Prepsaret offers a range of study resources, including practice exams and comprehensive study materials, to ensure you’re fully prepared. 

What Is PHR Certification Renewal?

PHR certification renewal, also known as recertification, is the process of maintaining your Professional in Human Resources credential after you’ve initially earned it. Unlike some professional certifications that last a lifetime, your PHR certification is valid for just three years. 

After this period, you must demonstrate that you’ve continued to develop your HR knowledge and skills to maintain your certified status. But why is renewal necessary? Well, think of your PHR as a marker of current knowledge. 

The HR field changes constantly with new laws, technologies, and best practices emerging regularly. Through recertification, you prove that you’re keeping pace with these changes and maintaining your expertise.

The Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI), which administers the PHR, requires renewal to ensure all certified professionals remain competent and knowledgeable. This process protects the value and integrity of the certification, ensuring that when someone sees “PHR” after your name, they know you’re up-to-date on HR practices.

PHR Certification Renewal Requirements

What are the PHR certification renewal requirements? To successfully complete your PHR certification renewal and recertification online, you’ll need to meet specific requirements set by HRCI. Here’s what you need to know:

Recertification Cycle

Your PHR certification is valid for three years from the date you pass the exam. You can begin earning recertification credits as soon as you become certified, and you must complete all requirements before your certification expiration date.

Credit Requirements

To renew your PHR certification, you need to earn 60 recertification credits (also called continuing education units or CEUs) during your three-year certification period. 

These PHR recertification credits must come from activities that fall into HRCI’s approved categories, which include:

• Continuing education (attending workshops, seminars, conferences)
• Professional development (college/university courses)
• On-the-job activities (instruction, research, publishing)
• Professional achievement (leadership roles, special projects)
• HRCI practice exams and self-assessment quizzes

Credit Categories and Limits

While you need 60 credits total, HRCI has specific requirements about how these credits should be distributed:

• At least 45 credits must come from HR-related activities
• Up to 15 credits can come from general management activities
• At least 1 credit must be in ethics (required for each recertification cycle)

Alternative Option: Retaking the Exam

If you prefer not to collect continuing education credits, you can choose to retake and pass the PHR exam during your recertification cycle. This approach automatically renews your certification for another three years.

Understanding these PHR recertification requirements is essential for planning your professional development activities over your three-year certification period. 

With proper planning, meeting these requirements can be a seamless part of your ongoing professional growth. If you decide to retake the PHR certification exam, it’s crucial to use top-notch study materials. Consider utilizing high-quality PHR practice tests to help with your exam preparation.

How to Renew PHR Certification

Wondering exactly how to renew PHR certification once you’ve accumulated your credits? The process is straightforward when broken down into manageable steps:

Step 1: Track Your Credits Throughout Your Certification Period

Start early! Use HRCI’s online portal to record your credits as you earn them, rather than scrambling to document everything at the last minute. The portal allows you to:

• Upload certificates of completion
• Record activity details
• Monitor your progress toward the 60-credit requirement

Step 2: Complete Your Application

About 90 days before your certification expires, HRCI will send you a reminder to complete your renewal. At this point:

1. Log in to your HRCI account
2. Navigate to the “My Recertification” section
3. Review all recorded activities to ensure they’re accurate and complete
4. Add any final credits you’ve earned
5. Verify you’ve met all category requirements (including the ethics credit)

Step 3: Submit Payment

Pay your PHR certification renewal cost, which currently ranges from $100 to $175 depending on your membership status and when you submit your application. Early submission (more than 90 days before expiration) often qualifies for a discounted rate.

Step 4: Certification Verification

Once you submit your application and payment, HRCI will review your credits. This process typically takes 7-10 business days, though it may take longer during peak periods. HRCI may randomly select your application for audit, in which case you’ll need to provide documentation for all claimed credits.

Step 5: Receive Your New Certificate

After approval, you’ll receive confirmation of your renewal along with a new digital certificate showing your updated certification period. Your physical certificate will arrive by mail within a few weeks.

By following these steps and starting early, you’ll find that the PHR certification renewal process is manageable and straightforward. Remember, the key is not waiting until the last minute to begin gathering and documenting your credits!

PHR Certification Renewal Online

The most convenient way to renew your PHR certification is through HRCI’s online portal. PHR certification renewal online offers several advantages over paper-based processes:

• 24/7 access to your certification records
• Real-time tracking of your recertification credits
• Immediate confirmation when credits are approved
• Electronic storage of all your certificates and documentation
• Email reminders about important deadlines
• Secure payment processing

To use the online system effectively:

1. Keep your contact information current in your HRCI profile
2. Upload documentation promptly after completing each activity
3. Check your credit totals periodically to ensure you’re on track
4. Save digital copies of all certificates and completion records

Can I renew my PHR certification online? Absolutely! The online system is HRCI’s preferred method for recertification and offers the most streamlined experience. If you’re uncomfortable with the online process, HRCI does offer alternative methods, but these typically involve additional processing time and potential delays.

PHR Certification Renewal Costs

How much does it cost to renew PHR certification? Understanding the financial aspects of recertification helps you budget appropriately. Let’s break down how much does it cost to renew PHR certification:

Direct Renewal Fees

The base PHR certification renewal cost varies depending on your status:

• HRCI members: $169
• Non-members: $169
• $100 suspension fee applies if the certification enters a suspended status due to late submission, giving professionals extra time to complete their renewal requirements.

Additional Costs to Consider

Beyond the direct renewal fee, you should budget for:

1. Continuing Education Expenses: While some PHR recertification credits free options exist, many quality programs have registration fees:
   • Conferences: $300-$1,500
   • Workshops: $100-$500 per session
   • Webinars: $25-$200 each
   • College courses: Varies widely
2. HRCI Membership: While optional, the annual membership fee (approximately $100-$150) provides discounts on recertification and access to free credit opportunities.
3. Documentation Fees: Some providers charge for official certificates or transcripts.

Cost-Saving Strategies

To minimize your PHR recertification credits cost:

• Take advantage of free webinars and virtual events
• Look for early-bird discounts on conferences
• See if your employer offers a professional development budget
• Join HRCI to access member-only free credit opportunities
• Plan ahead to avoid late renewal fees

When comparing costs with other certifications, PHR certification renewal and recertification cost is competitive with similar professional credentials like SHRM recertification, which has comparable fees but may have different credit requirements.

Related Post: SPHR Certification Cost Breakdown

Earning PHR Recertification Credits

There are numerous best ways to earn PHR recertification credits. Many HR organizations and educational institutions offer specialized continuing education for PHR renewal that can help you meet your credit requirements while advancing your professional knowledge. Let’s explore some of the most popular methods:

Continuing Education Programs

• Conferences and Seminars: Industry events typically offer 1 credit per hour of content. Annual SHRM or HRCI conferences can provide 10+ credits in just a few days.
• Webinars and Virtual Learning: Many providers offer on-demand or live webinars that qualify for credits. These are especially convenient for busy professionals.
• College/University Courses: Academic courses related to HR can earn significant credits—typically 15 credits per semester-long course.

PHR recertification through continuing education involves earning 60 credits through professional development activities instead of retaking the exam. This allows you to spread learning over three years while staying current on HR trends and practices.

Professional Activities

• Speaking or Presenting: Delivering HR-related presentations can earn you credits while enhancing your professional reputation.
• Publishing: Writing articles or books on HR topics can contribute to your credit total.
• Leadership Roles: Serving on boards or committees of HR organizations may qualify for credits.

On-the-Job Learning

• Special Projects: Implementing new HR programs or systems at your workplace might qualify for credits.
• Mentoring: Formal mentoring relationships can sometimes count toward recertification.

When choosing activities, look for those approved by PHR recertification providers or pre-approved by HRCI. These ensure that your time investment translates directly into valid credits. To track your credits effectively:

1. Create a spreadsheet or use HRCI’s online system to record activities as you complete them
2. Save all certificates of completion, attendance records, and other documentation
3. Note which category each activity falls into (HR-related, business management, ethics)
4. Review your progress quarterly to ensure you’re on track

With strategic planning, earning your PHR recertification credits can align naturally with your professional development goals.

Free and Low-Cost Ways to Earn PHR Recertification Credits

Not everyone has a generous professional development budget, but don’t worry! There are plenty of PHR recertification credits free options available:

• HRCI Webinars: HRCI regularly offers complimentary webinars for certificate holders.
• Professional Association Meetings: Local SHRM chapter meetings often provide free credits to members.
• Volunteer Opportunities: Serving on HR committees or boards can earn credits while giving back to the profession.
• Employer-Sponsored Training: Many companies offer in-house training that qualifies for credits.
• Free online resources: Platforms like HR.com offer free webinars that provide HRCI credits.

Low-cost options include:

• E-learning subscriptions: Some platforms offer unlimited webinars for a flat annual fee.
• Early-bird discounts: Register early for conferences and workshops to secure lower rates.
• Group discounts: Coordinate with colleagues to qualify for reduced rates.

For free PHR certification renewal and recertification opportunities, stay connected with HRCI and SHRM communications, as they frequently announce complimentary events and resources. Following HR thought leaders on social media can also alert you to free learning opportunities that qualify for credits.

Related blog post: PHR Certification Requirements

PHR Recertification Exam vs. Continuing Education

When it comes to maintaining your certification, you have two primary paths: taking the PHR recertification exam or earning continuing education credits. Each approach has distinct advantages and considerations:

PHR Recertification Exam Option

If you choose to retake the exam:

• You’ll need to pass the current version of the PHR exam before your certification expires
• You don’t need to track or submit continuing education credits
• You’ll pay the full exam fee (currently around $395 + Application Fee: $100.00 for HRCI members)
• You’ll need to study and prepare just as you did for your initial certification

This option might be preferable if:

• You enjoy test-taking
• You haven’t been able to accumulate enough credits
• You want to prove your knowledge is current in one definitive assessment

Continuing Education Option

Most PHR holders choose the continuing education path because:

• It allows for ongoing learning spread over three years
• It can be integrated with professional development you’re already doing
• It offers flexibility in how and when you learn
• It often costs less than retaking the exam

Learning how to maintain PHR certification without an exam requires planning, but many professionals find it less stressful and more beneficial to their careers. The key is understanding what activities qualify for credit and keeping accurate records throughout your certification period.

Whichever route you choose, remember that the goal is the same: to ensure your HR knowledge remains current and comprehensive. Both the exam and continuing education demonstrate your commitment to professional excellence.

Prepsaret: Your Trusted Partner for PHR Exam Preparation

Whether you’re preparing for initial certification or looking to retake the exam for recertification, having the right study resources is crucial. Prepsaret offers comprehensive support for HR professionals at every stage of their certification journey.

Why Choose Prepsaret for PHR Preparation?

• Comprehensive Practice Tests: Our PHR practice test questions with answers simulate the actual PHR test environment, helping you identify knowledge gaps and build test-taking confidence.
• Up-to-Date Study Materials: Our content is regularly updated to reflect the latest PHR exam content outline and HR best practices.
• Flexible Learning Options: With both self-paced and instructor-led courses, you can choose the learning format that works best for you.
• Expert Instruction: Our online PHR courses are developed and taught by experienced HR professionals who hold current PHR/SPHR certifications.

How Prepsaret Supports Your Recertification

Beyond exam preparation, Prepsaret offers:

• Continuing education courses that qualify for HRCI credits
• Tracking tools to monitor your credit accumulation
• Guidance on navigating the renewal process
• Regular updates on changing recertification requirements

With Prepsaret’s resources, you can approach your PHR certification renewal with confidence, knowing you have expert support every step of the way.

SHRM vs. PHR Certification Renewal

Many HR professionals hold certifications from both HRCI (PHR) and the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP). Understanding the differences between these renewal processes helps you manage your credentials efficiently:

Key Differences

Credit Requirements:

• PHR: 60 recertification credits over 3 years
• SHRM: 60 professional development credits (PDCs) over 3 years

Credit Categories:

• PHR: Divides credits between HR content, business management, and ethics
• SHRM: Organizes credits into SHRM Body of Competency & Knowledge categories

Costs:

• PHR: $100-$175 renewal fee
• SHRM: $100-$200 renewal fee

Renewal Period:

• Both certifications have 3-year renewal cycles

Streamlining Dual Certification Maintenance

If you hold both certifications, good news! Many activities qualify for both HRCI recertification and SHRM recertification. To manage dual credentials efficiently:

1. Prioritize activities approved by both organizations
2. Align your renewal cycles if possible (you can sometimes expedite renewal to sync dates)
3. Keep separate tracking systems for each credential
4. Be aware of different category requirements when planning your professional development

While the processes have similarities, don’t assume that credits automatically count for both certifications. Always verify approval status with each organization before investing time in professional development activities.

Both organizations offer online tracking systems, but they’re separate platforms, so you’ll need to record your activities in each system independently. HR certification renewal options are similar for both credentials, though SHRM does not offer the exam alternative for recertification.

Continue Reading: PHR vs SHRM

FAQs About PHR Certification Renewal

Keep Your PHR Certification Active

Maintaining your PHR certification is more than just a professional requirement—it’s an investment in your HR career. By staying certified, you demonstrate your commitment to excellence and continuous learning in this ever-evolving field.

Don’t wait until the last minute to think about PHR certification renewal through continuing education! Start planning your professional development activities early in your certification cycle to avoid stress and last-minute scrambling for credits.

Ready to simplify your certification journey? Visit Prepsaret today for comprehensive PHR exam preparation resources and guidance on navigating the recertification process with confidence!