CPD Requirements for Human Resources Professionals in the U.S.

Professional Development (PD) plays a pivotal role in the careers of HR professionals in the United States. With regulations, technology, and workplace expectations evolving rapidly, staying current is not just helpful—it’s essential. Certifications from organizations such as the Society for Human Resource Management (SHRM) and the HR Certification Institute (HRCI) represent both expertise and commitment to continuous learning.

This comprehensive guide provides an in-depth look at the essential steps for maintaining your SHRM and HRCI credentials. It offers a variety of effective strategies for managing your Continuing Professional Development (CPD) and Continuing Education (CE) credits. Additionally, the guide includes a practical recommendation for streamlining the entire process with LearnFormula, making the journey of credential maintenance easier and more efficient.

SHRM Recertification: What You Need to Know

SHRM offers two major certifications: SHRM-CP and SHRM-SCP. To maintain either, professionals must recertify every three years by either:

• Earning 60 Professional Development Credits (PDCs), or

• Retaking the certification exam in the final year of the cycle.

The recertification period starts on the date you successfully pass your examination. This window remains open for a duration of three years, concluding on the last day of the month in which you were born. It's essential to keep track of these dates to ensure you complete any required recertification processes before the deadline.SHRM credits can be earned through various learning activities, including:

• Conferences and educational programs

• Webinars, podcasts, and eLearning

• Reading HR books or taking related courses

• On-the-job projects and volunteer leadership

Tip: SHRM now allows a 60-day grace period (with a late fee) to earn and submit credits after your cycle ends. Up to 20 excess PDCs can be carried forward to your next cycle.

Flexible PD Credits Options: LearnFormula

LearnFormula's HR PD Portal offers a wide selection of individual courses for HR professionals. This allows them to target very specific skill sets and fulfill the requirements.

HR professionals can choose from:

• Individual courses tailored to topics like ethics, sustainability, and project management.

• Pre-designed packages that bundle hours for areas such as civil, electrical, and mechanical.

• Custom packages that enable professionals to select exactly what they need to stay compliant and competitive.

SHRM Credit Packages on LearnFormula

• From Manager to Leader 

Elevate your professional capabilities with this comprehensive package designed to transform managers into visionary leaders. This program equips participants with advanced skills in management and leadership, fostering the ability to navigate complex workplace dynamics with confidence and precision. Gain practical strategies to inspire teams, drive performance, and cultivate a culture of resilience and empowerment.

• Strategic HR Pro: The Leadership Collection 

This comprehensive collection encompasses the essential facets of modern HR, emphasizing the strategic integration of advanced technologies, leadership principles, and innovative talent management strategies. By focusing on the transformation of HR practices and the pivotal role HR plays in organizational success, this bundle equips HR professionals with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate the complexities of today's workforce landscape effectively.

HRCI Recertification: Earning CE Credits

HRCI requires recertification every three years for its certifications, including the PHR, SPHR, GPHR, and associate-level credentials. Credit requirements are as follows:

• 60 CE credits for PHR, SPHR, GPHR

• 45 CE credits for aPHR and aPHRi

Since 2021, all professionals must earn at least 1 ethics credit per cycle, and certain designations require specialized credit types:

• SPHR and SPHRi: 15 Business credits

• GPHR: 15 Global credits

• PHRca: 15 California credits

Qualifying activities include:

• Seminars, conferences, or eLearning

• Reading HR publications or participating in approved webinars

• Implementing HR programs, mentoring, or conducting HR research

To ensure the highest level of accuracy and effectiveness in your preparation, it is essential that each activity you engage in lasts a minimum of 45 minutes. This duration is important as it allows for a deep dive into the subject matter and facilitates better retention of information. Furthermore, every activity must directly align with the Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) exam content outline. This means that the topics covered should reflect the specific areas and competencies assessed in the exam, ensuring that your preparation is targeted and relevant.

Additionally, it is crucial to keep thorough documentation of all completed activities. This includes maintaining records such as certificates of completion or confirmation emails for each course or workshop attended. Having this documentation on file not only provides proof of your training but also aids in tracking your progress as you prepare for the exam.

Recommended: HRCI Recertification Packages on LearnFormula

• 60h GPHR Recertification Bundle 

The comprehensive GPHR package is tailored to equip you with the knowledge, skills, and resources needed to excel in your role as an HR professional. With this package, you'll gain access to a curated collection of courses and resources that address key areas of HR expertise. Whether you're looking to enhance your recruitment strategies, develop effective ethics policies, or foster employee engagement in a hybrid workplace, this package has you covered.

• Advanced HR Skills for Strategic Impact

The comprehensive HR Recertification Package offers a wide range of courses designed to meet your recertification needs while providing you with valuable insights and skills to thrive in today's dynamic business environment. With a focus on building trust, developing leadership competencies, fostering inclusive cultures, and effectively managing teams, this package empowers you to drive positive change and contribute to your organization's growth. 

Smart PD/CE Management for Dual Certification Holders

If you’re certified by both SHRM and HRCI, streamlining your tracking process is key. Consider creating a unified tracking sheet with:

• Date and title of each completed activity

• Provider name and certificate location

• Credit type and count for both SHRM and HRCI
  
  

You can also set calendar reminders and use mobile tools to track progress. LearnFormula’s dashboard automates tracking and updates your progress across both frameworks.

Stay Ahead: Policy Changes and Updates

Regularly check SHRM and HRCI for updates on credit requirements or recertification policies. Subscribing to their newsletters or following them on LinkedIn ensures you’re always up to date on changes, deadlines, and new credit opportunities.

Conclusion: Make Learning Work for Your Career

Keeping your SHRM or HRCI certification active is far more than just a formal requirement—it’s a strategic investment in your career as an HR professional. By selecting flexible, cost-effective, and reputable learning pathways, you’re enhancing your knowledge and skills and ensuring you remain compliant with industry regulations. This proactive approach opens doors to leadership roles and new opportunities within your field.

Are you ready to efficiently earn the credits you need to maintain your certification? Discover comprehensive solutions with LearnFormula, where you can take charge of your professional development journey today!