Getting Started with SHRM Exam Registration
Registering for the SHRM certification exam is a straightforward process, but there are important deadlines, fees, and details that you need to get right. This guide walks you through each step so you can complete your registration smoothly and avoid common mistakes.
Step 1: Verify Your Eligibility
Before registering, confirm that you meet SHRM's eligibility criteria. While SHRM does not enforce strict prerequisites, they provide recommended qualifications for each certification level:
SHRM-CP Recommended Qualifications
- Currently in an HR role, or pursuing a career in HR
- At least a bachelor's degree (HR-related or non-HR) with some HR experience, or equivalent work experience
- Working knowledge of operational HR practices
SHRM-SCP Recommended Qualifications
- Currently in a strategic HR role or seeking a senior-level HR position
- At least 3 years of experience in strategic HR work
- Demonstrated ability to develop and implement HR strategies
Step 2: Create or Log Into Your SHRM Account
You will need a SHRM account to register for the exam. If you do not already have one, visit the SHRM website and create a free account. If you are a SHRM member, use your existing member login.
Step 3: Choose Your Exam and Testing Window
SHRM offers certification exams during two primary testing windows each year. Select the window that gives you adequate preparation time. Consider the following:
- How much study time you need based on your current knowledge level
- Work and personal commitments during your chosen preparation period
- Early registration deadlines for discounted fees
Step 4: Complete the Application
The application requires you to provide:
- Personal information (name, contact details, mailing address)
- Education history (highest degree earned and field of study)
- Employment information (current role, employer, years of HR experience)
- Your preferred testing format (testing center or remote proctoring)
Ensure that your name matches your government-issued identification exactly. Any discrepancy between your registration name and your ID could prevent you from testing.
Step 5: Pay the Exam Fee
SHRM certification exam fees vary based on your membership status and registration timing:
Fee Structure
- SHRM members (early registration): Lower fee, typically available until a specified early deadline
- SHRM members (standard registration): Regular member rate
- Non-members (early registration): Lower non-member fee
- Non-members (standard registration): Highest fee tier
Payment can typically be made by credit card. Some employers reimburse certification exam fees, so check with your HR department or manager before paying out of pocket.
Step 6: Schedule Your Exam Appointment
After your application is approved and payment is processed, you will receive an Authorization to Test (ATT) email. This email contains instructions for scheduling your specific exam date and time.
Testing Center Scheduling
If you chose a Prometric testing center, you will schedule through the Prometric website. Select a center near you, then choose your preferred date and time from the available options. Popular dates fill up quickly, so schedule as early as possible.
Remote Proctoring Scheduling
If you chose remote proctoring, you will schedule through the online proctoring platform. You typically have more flexibility with dates and times, including evenings and weekends.
Important Deadlines to Remember
- Early registration deadline: Register before this date for the discounted fee
- Standard registration deadline: The final date to register for a given testing window
- ATT scheduling deadline: You must schedule your exam appointment before this date or your registration may be forfeited
Common Registration Mistakes to Avoid
- Registering with a name that does not match your ID exactly (including middle names and suffixes)
- Waiting too long to schedule after receiving your ATT, resulting in limited date options
- Forgetting to check whether your employer offers exam fee reimbursement
- Choosing the wrong certification level (SHRM-CP vs SHRM-SCP) by accident
- Missing the early registration deadline and paying a higher fee
After Registration
Once registered, you can focus entirely on your exam preparation. Keep your ATT email and scheduling confirmation in a safe place, and mark your exam date prominently on your calendar. Begin or continue your study plan immediately, and count down to exam day with confidence.