200+ Free PHR Practice Questions
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Key Facts: PHR Exam
~59%
First-Time Pass Rate
HRCI
500/700
Passing Score
HRCI
2 hours
Exam Duration
HRCI
145,000+
HRCI Certified
HRCI 2024
$495
Exam Fee
HRCI
$78,000
Median Salary
HRCI 2024
The PHR (Professional in Human Resources) certification has a ~59% first-time pass rate and requires a scaled score of 500/700 to pass. The exam covers 8 functional areas: HR Management, Business Management, Workforce Planning, Employee Relations, Total Rewards, Employee Development, HR Information Management, and Employee Engagement. HRCI reports over 145,000 certified professionals. PHR holders earn a median salary of $75,000-$85,000 according to HRCI salary data.
About the PHR Exam
The PHR certification validates expertise in HR management, business management, workforce planning, employee relations, total rewards, and professional development. It is ideal for HR professionals with tactical and logistical responsibilities.
Questions
115 scored questions
Time Limit
2 hours
Passing Score
500/700 (scaled)
Exam Fee
$495 (HRCI / Pearson VUE)
PHR Exam Content Outline
HR Management
HR theory, roles, ethics, and metrics
Business Management
Strategic planning, organizational development, change management
Workforce Planning & Talent Acquisition
Recruitment, selection, onboarding, retention strategies
Employee & Labor Relations
Employee relations, unions, collective bargaining, discipline
Total Rewards
Compensation strategy, benefits, performance management
Employee Development
Training design, career development, talent management
HR Information Management
HRIS systems, data privacy, HR analytics
Employee Engagement
Engagement strategies, recognition, wellbeing
How to Pass the PHR Exam
What You Need to Know
- Passing score: 500/700 (scaled)
- Exam length: 115 questions
- Time limit: 2 hours
- Exam fee: $495
Keys to Passing
- Complete 500+ practice questions
- Score 80%+ consistently before scheduling
- Focus on highest-weighted sections
- Use our AI tutor for tough concepts
PHR Study Tips from Top Performers
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the PHR exam pass rate?
The PHR exam has approximately a 59% first-time pass rate according to HRCI data. To pass, you need a scaled score of 500 out of 700. The exam consists of 115 questions (90 scored + 25 pretest) with a 2-hour time limit.
How hard is the PHR exam?
The PHR exam is considered moderately difficult. It tests both HR knowledge and application in real-world scenarios. Most candidates study for 8-12 weeks, dedicating 40-60 hours of preparation. Questions range from recall to complex scenario-based analysis.
What are the eligibility requirements for PHR?
To take the PHR exam, you need: (1) A high school diploma plus 4 years of HR experience, OR (2) A bachelor's degree plus 2 years of HR experience, OR (3) A master's degree plus 1 year of HR experience. Experience must be in a professional HR role.
How many questions are on the PHR exam?
The PHR exam contains 115 multiple-choice questions: 90 scored questions and 25 unscored pretest questions. You have 2 hours to complete the exam. Questions are computer-based and delivered at Pearson VUE testing centers.
What is the difference between PHR and SHRM-CP?
PHR is administered by HRCI and focuses on HR knowledge and technical competencies. SHRM-CP is administered by SHRM and emphasizes behavioral competencies alongside HR knowledge. Both are respected certifications; PHR is often preferred by those with operational HR experience.
How should I prepare for the PHR exam?
Effective PHR preparation includes: (1) Study for 8-12 weeks using HRCI-approved materials, (2) Complete at least 200-300 practice questions, (3) Focus on weaker areas identified through practice tests, (4) Review employment laws in detail, (5) Take full-length timed practice exams.