What are HRCI recertification credits?
HRCI recertification credits — also called recertification credit hours — measure the continuing education you complete to keep an HRCI credential active. You earn them through approved learning and professional activities, then log them in your HRCI account. One credit equals one hour of eligible content.
How many credits do you need?
It depends on your credential, but the cycle is always three years:
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aPHR / aPHRi — 45 recertification credit hours.
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PHR / PHRi — 60 recertification credit hours.
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SPHR / SPHRi — 60 credit hours, including at least 15 Business credits.
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GPHR — 60 credit hours, including at least 15 Business credits.
What are Business credits?
Business credits cover the strategy and business-management side of HR — finance, operations, and leading the function rather than running day-to-day programs. SPHR, SPHRi, and GPHR holders must earn at least 15 Business credits within their 60 hours. The remaining 45 can come from general HR learning.
The fastest way to earn HRCI credits
Approved webinars are the simplest way to build credits on your schedule. Every credit-eligible PEDU webinar is pre-approved for HRCI recertification credit, each hour earns 1 credit, and your certificate — with the activity ID for your HRCI portal — is emailed after you attend or finish the recording. Sessions tagged for Business credit help SPHR and GPHR holders cover the 15-credit requirement.
Quick recap
How to recertify, step by step
1
Earn Credits
Earn your required credit hours over the three-year cycle — 60 for most credentials, 45 for aPHR.
2
Check Business Credits
If you hold SPHR, SPHRi, or GPHR, make sure at least 15 of those hours are Business credits.
3
Log Activity
Log each activity in your HRCI account as you complete it.
4
Pay & Submit
Pay the HRCI recertification fee and submit before your cycle end date.
What happens if you don't recertify?
Miss the deadline and your credential lapses; regaining it means re-sitting the exam. Logging credits as you earn them is the easiest way to stay ahead of the deadline.
Requirements reflect HRCI's standard recertification policy. Always confirm current details and fees at hrci.org before you apply.