SHRM Recertification Credits

If you’re an HR professional, there’s a good chance you’ve heard of SHRM, the Society for Human Resource Management. It’s the go-to organization for HR professionals looking to elevate their careers, earn certifications, and continue their growth in the field.

SHRM certification verification ensures that your credentials are current and valid, which reinforces your credibility among peers and employers.

But even once you’ve earned your SHRM certification, the work doesn’t stop there! In fact, staying up-to-date with SHRM recertification credits is crucial for maintaining your credentials.

Let’s take a closer look at what SHRM recertification credits are, why they’re essential, and how you can easily earn them to stay ahead in your HR career.

Types of SHRM Certifications

SHRM offers two main certifications: the SHRM-CP (Certified Professional) and SHRM-SCP (Senior Certified Professional).

These two SHRM HR certifications are recognized worldwide and demonstrate that an individual has the necessary skills and expertise to thrive in human resources roles.

Both certifications are highly valued, and maintaining them is an ongoing process.

• SHRM-CP (Certified Professional): Designed for HR professionals with a few years of experience in the field. It showcases your ability to perform HR tasks, understand complex situations, and make decisions that affect the success of your organization.
• SHRM-SCP (Senior Certified Professional): For more experienced HR leaders with strategic and executive-level responsibilities. It focuses on shaping policies, developing HR strategies, and aligning HR goals with the organization’s mission.

Both certifications require ongoing recertification, achieved by earning SHRM recertification credits (Professional Development Credits or PDCs).

What Are SHRM Recertification Credits?

SHRM recertification credits are the units of measurement that track your professional development activities. These credits, also called SHRM PDCs (Professional Development Credits), ensure that certified professionals continue to enhance their knowledge and skills throughout their careers.

Recertification credits can be earned through activities like attending workshops, participating in SHRM-approved courses for recertification, and completing online classes.

The purpose of earning SHRM Continuing Education Credits is to ensure that HR professionals stay updated on the latest trends, legislation, and best practices.

They are vital for maintaining your SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certification and contribute to your overall growth as an HR expert.

Check out: SHRM-SCP recertification

SHRM Recertification Process

Once certified, you begin a three-year cycle where you’re required to accumulate 60 SHRM PDCs. These credits can be earned through a variety of activities, such as attending workshops, participating in webinars, or completing SHRM-recognized online courses.

To track and manage your credits, you’ll use the SHRM Certification Portal. Here, you can log your activities, review your progress, and submit your recertification application. Similarly, those certified through HRCI can use the HRCI Recertification Portal for the same purpose.

There are numerous ways to earn SHRM recertification credits online and in person. Here are some of the most effective methods:

• Online SHRM Recertification Classes: Flexible and convenient, these allow you to earn credits at your own pace.
• SHRM Recertification Webinars: Participate in live or recorded sessions that provide insights into current HR trends.
• Workshops and Conferences: These in-person events are excellent opportunities for networking while earning credits.
• Specialty Credentials: Focused certifications in areas like talent acquisition or employee relations contribute to your credit requirements.
• Research, Publications, and Presentations: Share your expertise by publishing articles or presenting at conferences.
• Volunteer Activities: Contributing your time to HR-related initiatives or organizations also counts towards SHRM recertification activities.

Free SHRM Recertification Credit Opportunities

Not all credits come with a price tag. Here are some ways to earn SHRM recertification credits free:

• SHRM Membership and Recertification Benefits: Access free webinars and resources included with your membership.
• Community Events: Participate in local chapter meetings or virtual networking events.
• Podcasts and Webcasts: Many SHRM-approved podcasts offer free credits.
• Volunteering: Engage in HR-related volunteer activities that contribute to your PDCs.

SHRM PDC Requirements

Understanding the SHRM credit categories and limits is essential for planning your recertification journey:

• Advance Your Education: Earn up to 60 PDCs through formal learning activities, such as SHRM-approved courses and workshops.
• Advance Your Organization: Activities that directly benefit your organization, like leading HR projects, also qualify.
• Advance Your Profession: Contributing to the HR field through volunteering, research, or mentoring can earn you additional credits.

How Many Credits Are Needed for SHRM Recertification?

To maintain your certification, you’ll need 60 PDCs within a three-year cycle. If you fail to meet the requirements, you’ll need to retake the SHRM certification exam or risk losing your credential.

Tips to Earn SHRM Credits Quickly

• Track Your Activities: Use a SHRM recertification credits template to log your PDCs.
• Prioritize SHRM-Approved Courses: Ensure the activities you choose are pre-approved for SHRM credits.
• Leverage Online Resources: Platforms like SHRM On Demand provide courses that are both affordable and flexible.
• Combine Learning Methods: Attend conferences, take online classes, and engage in volunteer work for a balanced approach.

Read also: What Happens after You Pass SHRM

SHRM Certification Renewal Process

The SHRM certification renewal process is straightforward. Simply log your activities in the SHRM Certification Portal, pay the applicable fee, and submit your application.

Ensure you’ve met the SHRM recertification requirements and documented all your activities in case of an audit.

Affordable SHRM Recertification Programs

If budget is a concern, look for affordable SHRM recertification programs. Many providers offer cost-effective courses, and some even provide payment plans. Additionally, SHRM membership often includes discounted access to resources and events.

Two Ways to Recertify SHRM

There are two primary tips to earn SHRM recertification credits quickly:

1. Earn 60 Professional Development Credits (PDCs) Within Your Three-Year Recertification Cycle

This is the most common method for recertification. To maintain your certification, you’ll need to accumulate 60 PDCs over a three-year period.

These credits can be earned through a variety of professional development activities, such as attending conferences, completing online courses, participating in webinars, and even volunteering in HR-related roles.

This method offers flexibility and allows you to continue building your skills while meeting the recertification requirements. While this option is available, many professionals find that earning PDCs is a more stress-free and flexible route, allowing them to tailor their learning to their own schedule and needs.

2. Retake the Certification Exam Within the Last Year of Your Recertification Cycle

Alternatively, you can choose to retake the SHRM certification exam within the last year of your recertification cycle. By passing the exam again, you will be recertified for another three years.

You can prepare for your retake exam using official study resources, online study books and materials, SHRM practice exams and other resources.

Both options help ensure that you stay current with the latest HR trends and maintain your professional credibility.

Ways to Earn PDCs

There are various ways to earn PDCs throughout your recertification cycle. Here’s a quick guide to the most popular methods:

• SHRM Conferences: Attending SHRM conferences is one of the best ways to earn PDCs. These events feature high-quality sessions, expert speakers, and networking opportunities that contribute to your professional development.
• Educational Programs: Enroll in educational programs related to HR, such as workshops, courses, or training. These programs often offer PDCs upon completion.
• SHRM Membership: Being a SHRM member gives you access to many opportunities to earn PDCs, such as webinars, courses, and local chapter events.
• Podcasts: Listen to HR-related podcasts that qualify for PDCs. Many HR experts share valuable insights that can contribute to your learning while you’re on the go.
• Specialty Credentials: Earning SHRM specialty credentials in specific areas of HR, such as talent acquisition or employee relations, can also count toward your recertification credits.
• SHRM On Demand: SHRM offers a range of on-demand learning options that allow you to earn PDCs at your own pace. These courses cover various HR topics and are a great way to accumulate credits.
• eLearning: Online courses and webinars are another flexible way to earn PDCs. Platforms like SHRM and other accredited providers offer eLearning opportunities that fit into your schedule.
• Webcasts: Join live or recorded webcasts hosted by HR organizations to earn PDCs. These sessions are often interactive and provide insights into current HR trends.

Earn All Your SHRM & HRCI Recertification Credits

Self-Paced Learning

Self-paced courses are an excellent option for HR professionals seeking flexibility in their learning. These courses are pre-qualified for both SHRM and HRCI recertification credits, making them a valuable resource on how to maintain SHRM certification with credits.

Delivered by professional instructors, the high-quality content allows you to absorb information at your own pace, ensuring a thorough understanding of the material. Additionally, you can easily retrieve your Recertification Credit IDs from your account whenever needed, simplifying the recertification process.

Online Community Events

Engaging in online community events is another effective way to earn recertification credits while expanding your professional network. These events offer opportunities to interact with knowledgeable presenters and connect with fellow HR members.

Since they are also pre-qualified for SHRM and HRCI credits, you can be confident that your participation will contribute positively to your professional development. 

Activity Management

For those taking self-directed courses, a certificate of completion is provided upon finishing the course. This is particularly useful in case of an audit by SHRM or HRCI, as your activity log will be readily accessible from any device.

This feature ensures that you can easily demonstrate your commitment to ongoing education and compliance with recertification requirements.

Buy SHRM-Approved Courses Online

Online platforms offer numerous SHRM-approved courses tailored to meet recertification requirements. These courses are convenient and provide flexibility for busy HR professionals.

Look for courses that align with your professional goals and cover emerging HR trends. SHRM training programs with credits are specifically designed to help you earn PDCs while staying current with HR trends. 

Professional Development Activities

Participating in various professional development activities is vital for accumulating PDCs. Attending conferences, workshops, and seminars, or enrolling in HR-related courses and webinars can significantly enhance your knowledge and skills while contributing towards your recertification credits.

These experiences not only provide valuable insights but also foster networking opportunities within the HR community.

Continuing Education

Completing accredited HR courses through online platforms or SHRM-approved programs is another effective way to earn necessary credits. These courses often cover current trends and best practices in the field, ensuring that you stay informed and competitive.

HR Professional Recertification Credits and Volunteer Activities

Serving in leadership roles or volunteering within HR-related organizations can also help you accumulate PDCs while giving back to your community. Engaging in these activities demonstrates your commitment to the profession and enhances your leadership skills.

There are several SHRM recertification workshops near me that offer convenient scheduling and expert-led sessions to help maintain my HR credentials.

Research, Publications, and Presentations

Publishing articles or presenting at conferences showcases your expertise in HR and contributes toward earning recertification credits. These activities not only enhance your professional profile but also allow you to share knowledge with others in the field.

Best Courses for SHRM Recertification Credits

Documenting relevant work experience qualifies for PDCs as well. On-the-job learning is invaluable, and it counts towards maintaining your certification!

By actively engaging in these various learning opportunities, you can ensure that you meet your recertification requirements while continuously advancing your career in human resources.

How Prepsaret Can Help with SHRM Recertification

• Comprehensive Study Resources: Prepsaret offers a wide range of study resources designed to help you succeed in your SHRM recertification journey. From practice exams to detailed study guides, these resources align with SHRM recertification requirements, making it easier to track your progress.
• Practice Exams and Mock Tests: Practice exams are an excellent way to prepare for your SHRM recertification. Prepsaret offers SHRM practice questions to help you test your knowledge and identify areas for improvement. 
• Check out:
  • SHRM-CP test prep resources
  • SHRM-SCP test prep resources
• Personalized Learning Plans: Prepsaret provides customizable study plans that help you focus on the areas you need the most. These personalized plans ensure you’re making the most of your study time.
• Expert Guidance and Support: With Prepsaret, you can access HR professionals and mentors who can provide valuable feedback and help you stay on track for success.

FAQs

Start Your SHRM Recertification Journey!

Recertifying is crucial for maintaining your credentials and staying competitive in the HR field. Begin accumulating those valuable PDCs early on! Utilize available resources from SHRM and Prepsaret to stay ahead in your professional development journey.

Remember, investing in yourself today will pay off tomorrow! start today!