CompTIA PenTest+ Requirements & Prerequisites
Everything you need to know before registering for the CompTIA PenTest+, eligibility, cost, format, and what to expect on exam day.
Cost
$392
Provider
CompTIA
Validity
3 years
Available
Global
Education
No formal education requirement for most exams
Experience
Recommended experience varies by certification level
Specific Requirements
- No enforced prerequisites. CompTIA lets anyone buy a PenTest+ voucher and sit the exam without proving prior certification or experience.
- CompTIA recommends CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+ or equivalent knowledge before attempting the exam.
- CompTIA recommends three to four years of experience in a penetration tester job role.
- Practical comfort with a Linux command line, scripting in at least one of Python, PowerShell, or Bash, and reading raw tool output matters more than any prior certificate, because the performance-based questions assume all three.
- An isolated lab environment is effectively required for preparation, since roughly half the blueprint covers techniques you cannot legally practise on systems you do not own or have written authorization to test.
Number of Questions
Maximum of 90 questions
Duration
165 minutes
Question Format
Multiple-choice questions, Performance-based questions requiring work with tool output, command syntax, and scenario-driven testing decisions
Passing Requirement
750 on a scale of 100 to 900
How It Is Delivered
Computer-based at a Pearson VUE test centre or online through Pearson OnVUE remote proctoring. CompTIA charges the same voucher price for both.
Languages Offered
English, French, Japanese, Portuguese
Purchase an exam voucher from CompTIA or authorized reseller
Create a Pearson VUE account
Schedule your exam at a test center or online
Apply voucher code at checkout
- Two forms of ID (primary must be government-issued with photo)
- Exam voucher or confirmation number
- For online: private room, webcam, clear desk
What are the prerequisites for the CompTIA PenTest+?
No enforced prerequisites. CompTIA lets anyone buy a PenTest+ voucher and sit the exam without proving prior certification or experience.. CompTIA recommends CompTIA Network+ and CompTIA Security+ or equivalent knowledge before attempting the exam.. CompTIA recommends three to four years of experience in a penetration tester job role.. Practical comfort with a Linux command line, scripting in at least one of Python, PowerShell, or Bash, and reading raw tool output matters more than any prior certificate, because the performance-based questions assume all three.. An isolated lab environment is effectively required for preparation, since roughly half the blueprint covers techniques you cannot legally practise on systems you do not own or have written authorization to test..
How much does the CompTIA PenTest+ cost?
The CompTIA PenTest+ exam costs $392. This includes the exam fee only, study materials are additional.
How do I register for the CompTIA PenTest+?
Purchase an exam voucher from CompTIA or authorized reseller → Create a Pearson VUE account → Schedule your exam at a test center or online → Apply voucher code at checkout
What should I bring to the CompTIA PenTest+?
Two forms of ID (primary must be government-issued with photo). Exam voucher or confirmation number. For online: private room, webcam, clear desk.
Ready to prepare for CompTIA PenTest+?
Get the complete exam guide with study plan, tips, and practice questions.
View CompTIA PenTest+ Guide