Free PHR Certification Practice Tests

What is the Professional in Human Resources test?

The Professional in Human Resources (PHR®) certification demonstrates mastery of the technical and operational aspects of HR practices and U.S. laws and regulations. The professionally relevant credential is for the HR professional who focuses on program implementation, has a tactical/logistical orientation, is accountable to another HR professional within the organization and has responsibilities that focus on the HR department rather than the whole organization.

Who gives it? HRCI

The HR Certification Institute administers the PHR certification to provide an opportunity for HR professionals around the world to demonstrate relevance, competence, experience, credibility and dedication to human resources to employers, clients, staff members and professional peers.

Who can take it?

To be eligible to sit for the PHR exam you must have:

  • a minimum of 1 year of experience in a professional-level HR position with a Master's degree or higher
  • OR a minimum of 2 years of experience in a professional-level HR position with a Bachelor's degree
  • OR a minimum of 4 years of experience in a professional-level HR position with a high school diploma

When and where can I take it?

The PHR exam consists of 175 multiple-choice questions and is taken at Prometric test centers.

What happens when I pass?

Certification serves as visible acknowledgement of your mastery of core HR principles and skills that are essential to HR best practices. It proves credibility and demonstrates leadership to peers and the business sector.

Business Management & Strategy
Practice Test

Questions cover developing, contributing to, and supporting the organization’s mission, vision, values, strategic goals and objectives; formulating policies; guiding and leading the change process; and evaluating organizational effectiveness as an organizational leader.
31 Questions

Human Resource Development
Practice Test

Questions cover developing, implementing, and evaluating activities and programs that address employee training and development, performance appraisal, and talent and performance management to ensure that the knowledge, skills, abilities, and performance of the workforce meet current and future organizational and individual needs.
23 Questions

Workforce Planning & Employment
Practice Test

Questions cover developing, implementing, and evaluating sourcing, recruitment, hiring, orientation, succession planning, retention, and organizational exit programs necessary to ensure the workforce's ability to achieve the organization's goals and objectives.
20 Questions

Risk Management Practice Test

Questions cover developing, implementing/administering, and evaluating programs, procedures, and policies in order to provide a safe, secure working environment and to protect the organization from potential liability.
22 Questions

Employee & Labor Relations
Practice Test

Questions cover developing, implementing/administering, and evaluating the workplace in order to maintain relationships and working conditions that balance employer/employee needs and rights in support of the organization's goals and objectives.
23 Questions

Compensation & Benefits Practice Test

Questions cover developing/selecting, implementing/administering, and evaluating compensation and benefits programs for all employee groups in order to support the organization’s goals, objectives, and values.
22 Questions