PHR (Professional in Human Resources): Requirements & Exam Details
Informational only — not financial or career advice. Exam fees and certification requirements change, and the figures here are accurate only as of the listed verification date. Confirm the current fee and rules directly with the certifying body before you register or budget. We report the official-body exam fee for a single attempt; it excludes prep courses, materials and retakes, and is not the total cost of certifying.
The Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification is issued by the Human Resources Certification Institute (HRCI). Candidates must meet experience requirements that vary by educational attainment, ranging from one to four years of direct human resources experience depending on degree level. The exam fee structure consists of a $395 exam fee and a $100 application fee, totaling $495 for a single examination attempt. The certification remains valid for three years, after which credential holders must renew to maintain active status.
The information presented reflects requirements and fees as verified in June 2026 and is subject to change. Specific eligibility criteria, examination fees, and renewal procedures are established and maintained by HRCI and may be updated at any time. Prospective candidates should verify all current requirements, fees, and renewal policies directly on the HRCI official website before beginning the application or registration process.
| Requirement | Detail |
|---|---|
| Prerequisites | 1-4 yrs HR experience by degree level |
| Base exam fee | $495 |
| Fee notes | $395 exam + $100 application (flat) |
| Validity / renewal | 3 years (recert) |
Register with the issuer. Eligibility, fees and renewal rules are set by HRCI and can change — confirm on the official page.
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