OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) Requirements & Prerequisites
Everything you need to know before registering for the OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional), eligibility, cost, format, and what to expect on exam day.
Cost
$1,599-$2,499
Provider
Offensive Security
Validity
No expiration
Available
Global
Education
Check official exam requirements
Experience
3-5+ years of professional experience typically required
Specific Requirements
- There are no formal prerequisites. OffSec states the OSCP credential is awarded without prerequisites to individuals who pass the performance test.
- OffSec strongly recommends a solid understanding of TCP/IP networking before starting PEN-200.
- OffSec strongly recommends reasonable Windows and Linux administration experience.
- OffSec strongly recommends familiarity with basic Bash or Python scripting.
- You must connect to the exam with Kali Linux over OpenVPN; OffSec provides no VPN connectivity support for other setups.
- Your machine needs at least a 64-bit dual core CPU at 2.2 GHz per core, 8GB of RAM recommended, 1024x768 display resolution, and 20GB of free disk space.
- You need a stable connection with a minimum of 20mbps download and 10mbps upload, and an external or integrated webcam. Phones and tablets cannot be used as the webcam.
- You need a private space. Taking the exam in the same room as another exam candidate is prohibited and can void your result.
Number of Questions
6 target machines: 3 standalone machines and 1 Active Directory set of 3 machines
Duration
23 hours 45 minutes of exam time, plus 24 hours afterward to upload the report
Question Format
Hands-on exploitation of live machines in a private VPN, scored on points, Standalone machines: 20 points each, 10 for initial access and 10 for privilege escalation, Active Directory set: 40 points total, awarded 10, 10, and 20, starting from a supplied username and password, A written professional penetration test report submitted as a PDF
Passing Requirement
70 of 100 points
How It Is Delivered
Remote, over OpenVPN from a Kali Linux machine, proctored live by an OffSec employee via webcam and full screen sharing
Languages Offered
English
Visit the official Offensive Security certification page
Create an account and select your exam
Choose a test center or online proctoring option
Pay the exam fee and schedule your date
- Two forms of valid ID (one government-issued with photo)
- Appointment confirmation email
- For online proctoring: webcam, microphone, clean desk, stable internet
What are the prerequisites for the OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional)?
There are no formal prerequisites. OffSec states the OSCP credential is awarded without prerequisites to individuals who pass the performance test.. OffSec strongly recommends a solid understanding of TCP/IP networking before starting PEN-200.. OffSec strongly recommends reasonable Windows and Linux administration experience.. OffSec strongly recommends familiarity with basic Bash or Python scripting.. You must connect to the exam with Kali Linux over OpenVPN; OffSec provides no VPN connectivity support for other setups.. Your machine needs at least a 64-bit dual core CPU at 2.2 GHz per core, 8GB of RAM recommended, 1024x768 display resolution, and 20GB of free disk space.. You need a stable connection with a minimum of 20mbps download and 10mbps upload, and an external or integrated webcam. Phones and tablets cannot be used as the webcam.. You need a private space. Taking the exam in the same room as another exam candidate is prohibited and can void your result..
How much does the OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) cost?
The OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional) exam costs $1,599-$2,499. This includes the exam fee only, study materials are additional.
How do I register for the OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional)?
Visit the official Offensive Security certification page → Create an account and select your exam → Choose a test center or online proctoring option → Pay the exam fee and schedule your date
What should I bring to the OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional)?
Two forms of valid ID (one government-issued with photo). Appointment confirmation email. For online proctoring: webcam, microphone, clean desk, stable internet.
Ready to prepare for OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional)?
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