Recertification Q&A: Recertification Cycle Dates, Recertifying Early

​Have questions about the SHRM-CP or SHRM-SCP credentials? In every issue, the SHRM Certification Team will answer some of your most frequently asked questions. Have additional questions? Send them to SHRMCertNews@shrm.org.

Q: When does my recertification cycle begin and end, and how will those dates be affected if I decide to recertify early?

A: Your three-year recertification cycle begins the day you earn your SHRM certification and ends on the last day of your birth month.

Example: You earned your SHRM certification on April 1, 2021. You were born on July 4. Your recertification cycle begins on April 1, 2021, and ends three years later on July 31, 2024.

When you recertify early, your new recertification cycle begins the day after you recertify and, again, ends on the last day of your birth month.

Example: You were born on July 4. Your recertification cycle ends on July 31, 2024. You recertify two months early on May 15, 2024. Your new cycle begins on May 16, 2024, and ends three years later on July 31, 2027.

Q: When is the earliest I can begin the recertification process?

A: You can and should begin working toward recertification as soon as you earn your SHRM certification (or recertification). However, you must wait until you are one year into your cycle to submit your completed recertification record.

Q: What is the benefit to recertifying early?

A: Recertifying early means you're ahead of the game—you've prioritized your professional development. There is no penalty. Continue to learn and grow. A commitment to lifelong learning is at the heart of SHRM certification. 

Want to learn more about how to obtain or maintain your SHRM certification? Visit shrmcertification.org.