CompTIA
CompTIA PenTest+ Pass Rate 2026
Complete analysis of CompTIA PenTest+ exam difficulty, pass rates, and strategies to pass on your first attempt.
Pass Rate Overview
~65%
Pass Rate
65% Pass
35% Fail
Difficulty Verdict
Moderately Challenging
Recommended Study Time
4-8 weeks
Typical Attempts
1-2 attempts typical
Why is the CompTIA PenTest+ Pass Rate ~65%?
CompTIA PenTest+'s ~65% pass rate means roughly 35 out of 100 candidates fail. For a hard-difficulty CompTIA exam, this is in line with expectations. Success requires covering all exam objectives — not just the ones you're comfortable with. At $392 per attempt, failing is costly. If you fail, you'll wait 14 days before retaking. The certification is valid for 3 years, so investing in solid prep pays off long-term.
Top Reasons Candidates Fail CompTIA PenTest+:
30%
Lack of real-world security operations experience
25%
Focusing on tools instead of security concepts and frameworks
20%
Not understanding how to apply knowledge to scenario-based questions
15%
Underestimating the breadth of domains covered
10%
Poor time management on the adaptive exam format
How to Beat the ~65% Pass Rate
Do This for CompTIA PenTest+
- Hands-on penetration testing focus
- Study reconnaissance and scanning tools
- Practice exploitation techniques
- Understand reporting and communication
Avoid This
- Memorizing tool commands without understanding security principles
- Ignoring risk management and governance domains
- Using only one study source instead of cross-referencing
- Skipping the adaptive practice tests that mirror real exam format
Ready to Beat the Odds?
Get our complete CompTIA PenTest+ study guide with practice questions.
Other Exam Pass Rates
CompTIA Security+~70%CISSP~25%CEH (Certified Ethical Hacker)~60%CISM (Certified Information Security Manager)~50%OSCP (Offensive Security Certified Professional)~25%CompTIA CySA+~70%CISA (Certified Information Systems Auditor)~50%CRISC (Certified in Risk and Information Systems Control)~55%CCSP (Certified Cloud Security Professional)~60%