HR CertificationÂ
Whether you’re preparing for the SHRM-CP®, SHRM-SCP®, aPHR®, PHR®, or SPHR®, you’ve come to the right place. This HR certification resource center was created to help HR professionals compare certifications, understand eligibility requirements, and find the best study resources.
Whether you’re just beginning your Human Resources career or preparing for senior leadership, earning an HR certification can help you become a more competitive candidate and advance your career.
You’ll find:
✔ Certification comparisons
✔ Free study resources
✔ Exam tips
✔ Recommended YouTube videos
✔ HR Certification Study Notes
✔ Articles answering your biggest questions
Which HR Certification Is Right For You?
Not all HR certifications are designed for the same stage of your career. HRCI and SHRM each offer certifications that serve different experience levels, career goals, and leadership responsibilities. Use the comparisons below to determine whether the aPHR®, PHR®, SPHR®, SHRM-CP®, or SHRM-SCP® is the best certification for your professional journey.
Why Become HR Certified?
Becoming HR certified demonstrates your commitment to professional growth and validates your knowledge of Human Resources principles and best practices. Many employers view SHRM and HRCI certifications as evidence that candidates possess the skills needed to support employees, advise leaders, and contribute to organizational success. Certification can also increase your confidence, credibility, and career opportunities.
An HR certification is more than just letters after your name—it’s an investment in your career. Whether you’re preparing for your first HR role or looking to move into leadership, becoming HR certified can help you stand out in a competitive job market and demonstrate your commitment to the profession.
Benefits of Becoming HR Certified
- Position yourself as an HR expert by demonstrating your knowledge of Human Resources principles and best practices.
- Open the door to more job opportunities, as many employers prefer or require HR certification for mid-level and senior HR positions.
- Increase your earning potential, with certified HR professionals often qualifying for higher-paying roles and promotions.
- Build confidence in your HR knowledge, helping you make decisions with greater certainty and credibility.
- Validate your expertise with a respected credential recognized by employers across a variety of industries.
- Stay current on employment laws, HR regulations, and workplace trends through continuing education and recertification requirements.
- Gain greater influence in the workplace by becoming a trusted resource for managers and organizational leaders.
- Strengthen your decision-making skills by developing a deeper understanding of strategic Human Resources practices.
- Demonstrate your dedication to professional growth, showing employers that you’re committed to continuous learning.
- Create new career opportunities, including leadership roles, specialized HR positions, consulting opportunities, and career advancement.
Ready to Learn More?
Not sure if HR certification is worth it or which certification is right for you?
Watch my YouTube video:Â

HR Certification Roadmap
Free HR Certification Resources
One of the best ways to prepare for your SHRM or HRCI certification is to use at least two different study resources. Explore our free study checklists, YouTube videos, and articles designed to help you better understand exam content, compare certifications, and build an effective study plan before investing in additional materials.
Prefer learning by watching instead of reading? These videos answer the most common questions about SHRM-CP®, SHRM-SCP®, aPHR®, PHR®, and SPHR® certifications. You’ll learn study strategies, certification comparisons, exam tips, and practical advice from someone who has helped thousands of HR professionals prepare for certification.
Choosing a Certification
Preparing for the Certification Exam
More Popular HR Certification Videos
HR Certification Articles
HR Certification Study Notes for HRCI & SHRM Exams
Notes are updated annually and available immediately after purchase. They are interactive, digital notes that you can download immediately and will always be available in your customer account. Â
Regular Price $147
Heyyy HR has been creating those notes for years and each year they get better and better!
The notes are not only a condensed version of all of those study materials but it’s packed with:
- Sample Exam Questions
- Easy-to-read charts & graphs
- Sections: Workplace, People, HR Competencies & Organization
- Interactive pages to get to other sections quickly
- Hyperlinked resource section
- YouTube Video Suggestions
- Mobile Apps
- Social Media Study Groups
- Additional Study Options: Pre- & Post- practice tests, study guides, flashcards, and more
Here’s what others had to say!
Why trust Heyyy HR?
Frequently Asked Questions
Is HR certification worth it?
The HR certification increases your chances of employment, earned a higher salary, and many other perks and benefits. Most of all, it takes the “what if” thoughts from your mind. I realized a very quick impact on my career growth and income after becoming certified. Click here for the benefits of becoming certified.Â
What's the difference between SHRM and HRCI exams?
The main difference is the organization that you must recertify with. The next difference is the number of options each offers. SHRM offers two exams, while HRCI offers many. The final and most important difference is that SHRM exams (SHRM-SCP and SHRM-CP) are focused on strategic HR, which includes situational judgement. HRCI is focused on knowledge-based HR. Click here for the difference between the exams.
Which certification should I get first?
Each certification has minimum qualifications that you must meet before being eligible to sit for that exam. Honestly, you can get whichever certification where you meet the minimum requirements. It all comes down to your personal preference and if you prefer taking standardized exams or not.Â
FYI: In my 15-year career, I became SHRM-SCP certified during year 4 with one certification and never got another. I have no plans to obtain another HR certification.
How long should I study?
30-90 days is the average time frame to study for the exam. It is best to create a schedule that fits your schedule and stick to it. Personally, I took 30 days to create my study notes, then used 30-45 days to study, then used the remaining time to quiz myself in varying formats including practice questions. Click here to hear my full experience on how I studied and passed the HR Certification exam.
Can I pass without taking a class?
Everyone has a learning style that they obtain knowledge best from. Choose that style first, then test yourself with a practice exam. If you notice that there is no progress in how much you’ve learned, then change formats. Start with the least expensive option first. Join study groups if necessary. The best factor is gaining on-the-job HR experience prior to studying for the exam and/or taking the exam.
