PHR Certification Practice Test 2025
Professional in Human Resources

What is PHR?

PHR Professional in Human Resources is a career in human resource management. The Human Resource Certification Institute (HRCI) certification indicates that persons have the theoretical knowledge and practical experience in human resource management required to pass an examination proving mastery of the field’s body of knowledge. The Senior Professional in Human Resources (SPHR) certification is the highest level of human resources certification for people who have proven strategic mastery of the HR body of knowledge.

PHR Certification

Keep asking yourself “How to get Professional in Human Resources Certification?” or “How to become a certified Human Resources Professional?” To be able to get Human Resource Management Certificate Professional, you must fulfill one of the following academic and experience criteria.

PHR Certification Requirements

  • Have at least one year of professional-level HR experience and a Master’s degree or above
  • Have at least two years of professional-level HR experience and a Bachelor’s degree
  • Have at least four years of professional-level HR experience

 

Take the Free PHR Practice Test Now!

What is Professional in Human Resources Exam?

The Professional in Human Resources (PHR) test, created by HR specialists, covers a wide range of subjects, including HR basic knowledge, practices, and U.S. laws and regulations. The PHR consists of the following components:

Risk Management

This section assesses candidates’ abilities to create, execute, and evaluate organizational initiatives that ensure a safe and productive workplace.

Business Management and Strategy

This section assesses candidates’ ability to create and support the organization’s vision and objectives.

Human Resource Development

This section assesses the applicant’s competence to design and evaluate staff training and performance management programs.

Compensation and Benefits

This section assesses candidates’ abilities to create, execute, and evaluate business benefit programs.

Employee and Labor Relations

This section assesses candidates’ abilities to devise and implement methods for maintaining employee relationships and working conditions.

Workforce Planning and Employment

This section assesses candidates’ understanding of and capacity to conduct recruiting, orientation, retention, and exit programs.

PHR Recertification

The PHR Human Resources certification exam is valid for three years. Certified human resource professionals must obtain 60 PHR recertification credits over the course of three years in order to keep their certification or retake the test. Certified human resource professionals can earn credits by engaging in professional development activities such as seminars or online courses, or by achieving professional goals such as establishing a new HR program at work.

 

PHR Certification Cost

If you want to acquire a HR Professional Certification from any of the schools mentioned in this blog article, there is no set fee because each program has variable pricing based on what level you are at (beginner or advanced). Individual costs, on the other hand, range from $199 to $5,400 per course.

 

PHR Certification Salary

The SPHR salary average does go up with certification, the percentage of compensation rise for a PHR is more than that of an SPHR. The average PHR-certified HR leader earns between $57,000 and $127,000 per year. The average salary for a PHR qualified HR professional is $72,000. Remember that HR professionals who are qualified to take the PHR certification test must have at least two years of experience in the field.

 

Best PHR Certification Online Courses

Finding the greatest HR Management certificate online is an excellent approach to assure success on the first try. So, if you want to become a certified HR, We will provide information on the most commonly best HR certification courses and licenses.

Mometrix PHR Test Prep: There is something to be said for simplicity, especially when seeking for something to assist you learn. Mometrix’s basic yet concentrated 47-lesson PHR course study guide is a perfect example of simplicity.

BenchPrep PHR Exam Prep Courses: There’s nothing like real data to back up the success of a test prep course, and BenchPrep is likely to wow you in this area. Students who utilize BenchPrep’s HR Learning System increase their test scores by 16% on average. BenchPrepHR offers a backup strategy if you do not perform well on your first attempt, in addition to their core PHR study materials. BenchPrep extends your access and provides free course updates until you pass as part of their promise.

HRCP PHR Certification Study Guide: Since 1995, HRCP has been assisting people in passing the Professional in Human Resources test. Their track record of thousands of successful pupils serves as a solid indicator of quality.

Pearson PHR Certification Prep: What Pearson lacks in elegance, it more than makes up for in course substance. Combining the unique study materials of these test preparation courses with a scalable learning platform creates a really powerful PHR study guide prep cocktail.

Distinctive HR PHR certification classes: Distinctive HR is one of the most comprehensive PHR exam prep companies we’ve encountered. This is due, in part, to their multifaceted approach, which transcends traditional media forms.

HRReview PHR Prep Course Review: Their Start Smart courses are targeted and include a small number of study resources to help you grasp the finer points. Beginning with pre-tests and handouts for each area, you’ll be able to evaluate how well you perform with a certain component before going in further to flesh out your knowledge.

 

Best PHR Study Book

  • PHR / SPHR Professional in Human Resources Total Test Prep Bundle Review
  • PHR Exam Prep: Professional in Human Resources Review
  • PHR / SPHR Professional in Human Resources Certification Deluxe Study Guide Review
  • PHR / SPHR Exam For Dummies Review
  • PHR/SPHR Professional in Human Resources Certification Bundle Review

 

PHR Study Guide PDF

Professional in Human Resources (PHR) is one of the most common certifications. Consider your present preparedness and work experience before deciding when to take the exam. The exam tests applicants’ comprehension of ideas and core knowledge in several human resources subjects, such as compensation and benefits. If you want to be completely prepared, there are several available prep materials, such as PHR practice test PDF and PHR PDF. We recommend taking our free PHR exam 1 and PHR exam 2 for the best preparation. This will show how you’re performing in each functional area and whether you’re progressing.

 

PHR Questions and Answers

What does PHR stand for?

PHR stands for Professional in Human Resources.

What is PHR certification?

The PHR certification exam assesses all functional areas of the HR sector and is based on federal laws, rules, and practices in the United States.

How to get PHR certification?

To apply for the Professional in Human Resources (PHR) certification, you must fulfill one of the following academic and experience requirements, such as having a minimum of four years of professional Human Resources experience and a high school graduation. Having at least one year of professional Human Resources experience, as well as a Bachelor’s degree, or having at least two years of professional Human Resources experience, as well as a Master’s degree or higher. Then you must pay for the PHR test and pass it.

Is a PHR worth it?

Yes. For individuals wanting a long-term career in HR management, PHR certification is likely to be worth the time and money invested.

How long does it take to study for PHR?

The time it takes to study for the PHR test is determined on the candidate’s job experience, background, and study habits. Most test takers, according to the HRCI, spend more than 60 hours preparing for the exam.

How many questions on PHR exam?

There are currently 175 questions on the PHR certification test.

How to apply for the PHR exam?

Create an account on the HRCI website to apply for the PHR, then submit your application and, once approved, schedule your exam at a Pearson VUE testing center.

Is SHRM CP or PHR easier?

The PHR appears to be easier because it has a 59% pass rate for first-time exam takers. The pass rate for the SPHR is 57%.

Is the PHR exam difficult?

Yes. The PHR is difficult, but not impossible to beat.

What is the difference between PHR and SHRM certification?

PHR certification is more concerned with specific knowledge and compliance, whereas SHRM certification is more focused with soft skills and the application of management strategies.

What is a passing score on the PHR exam?

The candidate must obtain a score of 500 or above out of 700.

What is SHRM CP PHR?

The SHRM-CP test is for HR professionals who implement policies and initiatives, serve as a point of contact for employees and stakeholders, supply HR services, and conduct operational HR duties.

Where to take the PHR exam?

PHR exam testing appointments are available all year and are dependent on test center or online appointment availability.

What is a benefit of using a PHR quizlet?

To enhance your knowledge and provide a sample of what may be seen on a human resources certification test.

How much does the PHR exam cost?

The application fee is $100 and the PHR Exam is $395.

What does SHRM CP PHR stand for?

SHRM-CP stands for Society for Human Resource Management-Certified Professional and PHR stands for Professional in Human Resources.

Which is better SHRM CP or PHR?

In two aspects, PHR certifications are better than SHRM certifications. They go through legality, compliance, and technical aspects in more depth. PHR is more concerned with specific knowledge and compliance, whereas SHRM is more focused with soft skills and the application of management strategies.

How do you see the future of the PHR?

Personal health records (PHRs) are expected to be used by 75 percent of individuals by 2020, according to researchers.

How much does a PHR make?

As of November 29, 2025, the average income for a Professional in Human Resources (PHR) in the United States is between $56,550 and $118,962.

How to pass PHR exam?

Consider your present degree of readiness as well as your previous job experience. Make a study schedule; your own routine will have the most impact. Consider taking a practice exam to improve your test-taking efficiency. To prepare for the PHR test, you might enroll in a prep or review course. You already have study companions if you have coworkers or pals studying for the exam.

Should I take the PHR or SHRM CP?

If you seek knowledge and mastery of HR-related business legislation, an awareness of the broad principles and theories behind HR then take the PHR certification. If you prefer to use the SHRM career resources, study some intangible parts of HR including leadership, consulting habits, and managing your career, and you work at a larger or mature business then take the SHRM-CP certification.

What is the best PHR prep course?

Finding the top PHR prep course is a great method to ensure that you pass the exam the first time around. BenchPrep, HRCP, Mometrix, Distinctive HR, and HRReview are the best phr prep courses we recommend.

Do you need a degree to get a PHR certification?

You’ll require two years of professional job experience if you have a bachelor’s degree, and four years in a professional HR position if you only have a high school diploma.

How long does it take to get PHR exam results?

You should get it within 24-48 hours after finishing the exam, and you’ll be notified by email when it’s available.

How to get a PHR certification online?

Log in to HRCI and choose the option to schedule via online testing to get started. To schedule your exam, go through the calendar and choose a time and day.

How to verify if someone is PHR certified?

The HRCI website can be used to verify certification. It is important to note, however, that not every certified person will be listed in the registration, since some PHR certified persons may have chosen to hide their status by opting out of the online registry.

What does PHR mean after a name?

You’ll be able to use your qualification as a suffix in your complete name if you pass. It’s a great advantage that makes you stand out.

Where can I get my PHR certification?

A paper certificate is available for purchase through HRCI’s online store. Certificate delivery with tracking costs $50 USD in the United States. Certificate delivery with tracking is $65 USD if you live outside of the United States.