You just landed a new job in HR, or maybe you've been handling people and policies for a bit, but don't have a title.
On the other hand, you've been hearing about CHRP and CHRL a lot lately, and while both sound important, you're not quite sure which one fits you best.
Let’s be clear: You’re definitely not the only one wondering this. Many HR professionals have the same question when they're looking to level up their careers.
To help you understand the difference between CHRP vs CHRL, we created this guide. Let’s get started.
Both the CHRP and CHRL are official HR designations regulated by HRPA in Ontario.
These designations aim to standardize the HR profession, ensuring that professionals stick to ethical and legal guidelines, and promote better HR knowledge and leadership across Canadian workplaces.
In short, CHRP is for entry-level positions focused on operational and tactical HR tasks, while CHRL is for mid-senior level roles that emphasize strategic leadership, policy, and people management.
Let’s break down CHRP vs CHR further.
At TROIS Collective, we support HR talent at all levels and teams that need an HR partner.
The Certified Human Resources Professional (CHRP) designation is the first step in the HRPA certification pathway.
It’s a great fit for those just starting in HR or working in support, admin, or specialized roles.
Here are some key skills you’ll pick up:
- Employee relations
- Compliance and employment law
- Compensation and benefits
- Onboarding and performance management
If you hold a CHRP, you might find yourself in positions like:
This level is more about getting things done than making big decisions or setting policies.
It’s a solid choice for folks who deal with the day-to-day HR tasks and want to establish themselves for future promotions.
The Certified Human Resources Leader (CHRL) designation is meant for experienced HR professionals who lead teams, create policies, or guide HR strategies within their organizations.
Some key skills you’ll develop if you get a CHRL include:
- Strategic HR planning
- Organizational development
- Change management
- Policy creation and oversight
- Risk and compliance leadership
And you will hold roles like:
The CHRL is all about strategic leadership.
This opportunity is perfect for HR professionals who have experience and want to influence policy or advise executives on ways to boost organizational performance.
If you’re still not sure of which one is best for you, here’s a clear comparison of the two designations.
If you are new to HR or switching careers, consider starting with the CHRP.
If you have a few years of experience and manage people or policies, then the CHRL might be a better option.
To get the CHRP or CHRL designation, you first need to pass the CHRP Knowledge Exam (CKE 1).
We have a complete guide to get your CHRP designation here.
If you’re aiming for the CHRL, there are a couple more exams you’ll need to tackle:
1. The CHRL Knowledge Exam (CKE 2), which dives into some more advanced stuff.
2. The Employment Law Exam (ELE), focusing on Canadian HR legal standards.
These extra exams highlight the more strategic roles that come with the CHRL level.
CHRP: Manages HR plans, ensures policies are followed, and handles employee files, payroll, and onboarding.
CHRL: Creates HR strategies, offers advice on legal issues, leads succession planning, and supports senior leadership.
CHRL-certified professionals typically earn 15% to 25% more than CHRP holders.
This difference is due to their broader responsibilities and leadership roles.
However, both certifications can lead to job promotions.
The CHRP can help you secure your first HR position, while the CHRL can help you advance to HR management, director roles, or consultancy.
To keep your CHRP or CHRL certification, you must continue your professional development. This includes:
The difference between CHRP vs CHRL is clear.
CHRP helps you start a career in HR. CHRL is for those in HR who have more experience.
The good news is that you can pursue both. Many people use CHRP as a starting point before moving on to CHRL.
To learn more about HR management, visit our blog.
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