CKS (Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist) Requirements & Prerequisites
Everything you need to know before registering for the CKS (Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist), eligibility, cost, format, and what to expect on exam day.
Cost
$395
Provider
CNCF
Validity
2 years
Available
Global
Education
No formal education requirement
Experience
3-5+ years of professional experience typically required
Specific Requirements
- You must have taken and passed the Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) exam before attempting CKS. This is enforced at registration.
- The CKA certification does not have to be current or active at the time you enroll for CKS; it only has to have been earned at some point.
- You must supply your own computer with a webcam you can physically pan around the room, a working microphone, and one active monitor. Dual monitors are not supported.
- You need a reliable internet connection with HTTPS access to AWS S3 endpoints, because the PSI Secure Browser requires it. Wired connections are recommended over wireless.
- You must have administrator rights on the testing machine to install the PSI Secure Browser and to end system processes and services. Virtual machines are not permitted.
- You need a private testing space. Coffee shops, stores, and open offices are not allowed.
- Candidates aged 16 to 18 may test online provided a parent or guardian submits the Parental Release for Testing of Minors form at least two weeks before the exam date, the minor presents a valid student ID, and the guardian presents a valid ID and gives verbal consent at check-in.
- Persons subject to US sanctions prohibitions may not participate in Linux Foundation Education programs.
Number of Questions
15 to 20 performance-based tasks
Duration
2 hours
Question Format
Performance-based tasks solved from a Linux command line against live Kubernetes clusters, Each task is completed on a designated SSH host named in an infobox at the start of the task, No multiple choice, no written answers
Passing Requirement
67 percent
How It Is Delivered
Online proctored only, on the PSI Bridge platform using the PSI Secure Browser, with a live proctor monitoring streaming audio, video, and screen sharing
Languages Offered
English, Simplified Chinese, Japanese
Purchase the exam at training.linuxfoundation.org
You'll receive access to killer.sh simulator (2 sessions)
Schedule your exam through the portal
Exam is online proctored via PSI
- Government-issued photo ID
- Chrome or Chromium browser with PSI Secure Browser extension
- Stable internet, webcam, microphone
- Clean desk, no notes, books, or second monitors
What are the prerequisites for the CKS (Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist)?
You must have taken and passed the Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) exam before attempting CKS. This is enforced at registration.. The CKA certification does not have to be current or active at the time you enroll for CKS; it only has to have been earned at some point.. You must supply your own computer with a webcam you can physically pan around the room, a working microphone, and one active monitor. Dual monitors are not supported.. You need a reliable internet connection with HTTPS access to AWS S3 endpoints, because the PSI Secure Browser requires it. Wired connections are recommended over wireless.. You must have administrator rights on the testing machine to install the PSI Secure Browser and to end system processes and services. Virtual machines are not permitted.. You need a private testing space. Coffee shops, stores, and open offices are not allowed.. Candidates aged 16 to 18 may test online provided a parent or guardian submits the Parental Release for Testing of Minors form at least two weeks before the exam date, the minor presents a valid student ID, and the guardian presents a valid ID and gives verbal consent at check-in.. Persons subject to US sanctions prohibitions may not participate in Linux Foundation Education programs..
How much does the CKS (Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist) cost?
The CKS (Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist) exam costs $395. This includes the exam fee only, study materials are additional.
How do I register for the CKS (Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist)?
Purchase the exam at training.linuxfoundation.org → You'll receive access to killer.sh simulator (2 sessions) → Schedule your exam through the portal → Exam is online proctored via PSI
What should I bring to the CKS (Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist)?
Government-issued photo ID. Chrome or Chromium browser with PSI Secure Browser extension. Stable internet, webcam, microphone. Clean desk, no notes, books, or second monitors.
Ready to prepare for CKS (Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist)?
Get the complete exam guide with study plan, tips, and practice questions.
View CKS (Certified Kubernetes Security Specialist) Guide