PenTest+CompTIA PenTest+
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What is PenTest+?
PenTest+ is CompTIA's vendor-neutral penetration testing certification and covers the full engagement lifecycle: scoping and legal groundwork, reconnaissance, vulnerability analysis, exploitation and client-facing reporting. Unlike pure lab certifications such as OSCP, it also examines the commercial and documentation side of a pentest, which makes it relevant for consultancies and internal testing teams. The exam combines multiple-choice with performance-based questions but does not replace a multi-hour practical proof of exploitation. Version PT0-003 has been current since 17 December 2024; the predecessor PT0-002 retired on 17 June 2025. Within the CompTIA stack it sits alongside CySA+ at the analyst level and shares its recertification load of 60 CEUs per three-year cycle.
Quick facts
Cost, prerequisites, exam & renewal
Cost over 5 years
Prerequisites
No formal prerequisites. Recommended: 3 to 4 years of experience in a penetration tester job role plus Network+ and Security+ or equivalent knowledge.
Exam format
Renewal & maintenance
Valid for 3 years. Renewal through 60 CEUs or higher-level CompTIA cert (stacking) or re-exam.
CertMap score and matching roles
Rating
Matching NICE roles
No NICE roles assigned.
More certifications
Personal consulting
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