Understanding SHRM Certification Renewal
Earning your SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP certification is a significant achievement, but maintaining it requires ongoing professional development. SHRM certifications are valid for three years, after which you must either earn 60 professional development credits (PDCs) or retake the certification exam to renew. Understanding the renewal process from the start helps you plan ahead and avoid last minute scrambling.
The Basics of the Renewal Cycle
Three Year Cycle
Your renewal cycle begins on the date you pass your certification exam and ends three years later. For example, if you pass your exam on June 15, 2025, your certification is valid through June 14, 2028. You must complete your renewal requirements and submit your application before the end date.
The 60 PDC Requirement
To renew through professional development (the most common method), you must earn 60 PDCs during your three year cycle. These credits must come from qualifying activities that demonstrate ongoing professional growth in HR. SHRM provides specific categories of qualifying activities, and there are limits on how many credits you can earn from certain categories.
Renewal by Exam
Alternatively, you can renew by retaking and passing the certification exam. This option is less common but may be appropriate if you have not tracked PDCs throughout your cycle or if you want to revalidate your knowledge. Note that if you hold the SHRM-SCP and choose to retake the exam, you must retake the SHRM-SCP exam specifically.
Qualifying PDC Activities
Education Activities
Formal learning activities are the most straightforward way to earn PDCs. Qualifying education activities include:
- SHRM seminars, conferences, and webcasts (including the annual SHRM conference)
- College or university courses related to HR
- eLearning courses and webinars from approved providers
- SHRM chapter meetings and educational programs
- Preparation courses for additional HR certifications
- Self directed learning activities (reading HR books, listening to HR podcasts)
Advancing the Profession
Activities that contribute to the broader HR profession also earn PDCs:
- Volunteering for SHRM at the national, state, or local level
- Mentoring HR professionals or students
- Teaching or facilitating HR related courses
- Publishing articles, books, or research on HR topics
- Speaking at HR conferences or professional events
- Serving on boards or committees for HR organizations
On the Job Activities
Many of the things you do in your daily HR role can count toward PDCs:
- Leading or participating in significant HR projects
- Implementing new HR programs or technologies
- Conducting original workplace research
- Developing HR policies or procedures
- Managing organizational change initiatives
PDC Limits and Requirements
SHRM places limits on certain categories to ensure a well rounded professional development experience:
- No more than 30 PDCs from self directed learning activities
- No more than 15 PDCs from on the job activities in a single category
- At least some PDCs should come from formal education activities
Always check the current SHRM guidelines for the most up to date limits, as these requirements may change.
Tracking Your PDCs
The SHRM Certification Portal
SHRM provides an online portal where you can log and track your PDCs throughout your renewal cycle. You should log activities as you complete them rather than waiting until renewal time. The portal allows you to upload supporting documentation, categorize activities, and monitor your progress toward the 60 credit requirement.
Best Practices for Tracking
- Log PDCs within a week of completing the activity while details are fresh
- Save certificates of completion, registration confirmations, and other documentation
- Set calendar reminders to check your PDC progress quarterly
- Aim for approximately 20 PDCs per year to pace yourself evenly
- Keep a backup of your records in case of portal issues
Planning Your PDC Earning Strategy
Year One
Focus on attending conferences, webinars, and formal learning opportunities. Aim for 15 to 20 PDCs in your first year while the renewal cycle still feels fresh and motivation is high.
Year Two
Look for on the job PDC opportunities and consider taking on volunteer roles with your local SHRM chapter. Continue attending educational events to maintain momentum. Target another 15 to 20 PDCs.
Year Three
If you have been pacing yourself well, you should need only 15 to 20 more PDCs. Fill any remaining gaps with self directed learning, webinars, or professional activities. Submit your renewal application well before the deadline to avoid any last minute complications.
Renewal Costs and Deadlines
SHRM charges a renewal fee when you submit your application. The fee varies depending on your SHRM membership status, with members paying a reduced rate. Late renewals are sometimes accepted with an additional fee, but allowing your certification to lapse may require you to retake the exam rather than simply renewing.
Mark your renewal deadline on your calendar at the start of each cycle and set reminders at 12 months, 6 months, and 3 months before the deadline. Proactive planning ensures you never face a last minute crisis.