Free Human Resources Practice Questions
Free practice questions for HR certification exams including SHRM-CP, SHRM-SCP, PHR, and SPHR. Covers behavioral competencies, HR knowledge domains, employment law, and strategic HR management. Updated for 2026.
SHRM reports over 340,000 HR professionals hold SHRM or HRCI certifications. SHRM-CP has a ~66% pass rate, PHR ~59%, SPHR ~56%, and SHRM-SCP ~53%. HR certification holders earn 15-20% more than non-certified peers. The BLS projects 8% growth for HR specialists (2024-2034) with 86,000 annual job openings.
Key Facts: Human Resources Exams
~66%
SHRM-CP Pass Rate
SHRM
~59%
PHR Pass Rate
HRCI
15-20%
Salary Premium
SHRM/HRCI
86,000
Annual Job Openings
BLS
340,000+
Certified HR Pros
SHRM/HRCI
8%
Job Growth (2024-2034)
BLS
Choose Your Exam
SHRM-CP
SHRM Certified Professional
SHRM-SCP
SHRM Senior Certified Professional
PHR
Professional in Human Resources
SPHR
Senior Professional in Human Resources
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Frequently Asked Questions
Which HR certification should I get first: SHRM-CP or PHR?
Both are respected entry-to-mid-level HR certifications. SHRM-CP (administered by SHRM) emphasizes behavioral competencies and situational judgment, while PHR (administered by HRCI) focuses more on technical HR knowledge. SHRM-CP has a higher pass rate (~66% vs ~59%). Choose based on your employer's preference and your learning style.
What is the pass rate for HR certification exams?
Pass rates vary by certification: SHRM-CP ~66%, PHR ~59%, SPHR ~56%, and SHRM-SCP ~53%. Senior-level certifications (SPHR, SHRM-SCP) have lower pass rates due to the strategic focus. Most candidates study 40-80 hours over 8-16 weeks to prepare adequately.
How much do HR-certified professionals earn?
According to SHRM and HRCI salary data, HR certification holders earn 15-20% more than non-certified peers. PHR holders earn a median of $75,000-$85,000, SHRM-CP holders earn ~$75,000, SPHR holders earn $95,000-$115,000, and SHRM-SCP holders earn ~$105,000. Senior certifications command significantly higher salaries.
What is the job outlook for HR professionals?
The BLS projects 8% growth for human resources specialists from 2024-2034, faster than average, with 86,000 annual job openings. SHRM reports over 1 million HR professionals in the US. Certified HR professionals have a competitive advantage in the job market.
How long should I study for an HR certification exam?
Study time varies by certification: SHRM-CP/PHR requires 40-60 hours over 8-12 weeks; SPHR/SHRM-SCP requires 60-80 hours over 10-16 weeks. Complete at least 200-300 practice questions and consistently score 80%+ on practice exams before scheduling your test.
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