CompTIA Security+ Exam Cost: Complete Guide for SY0-701 (2026)

Current CompTIA Security+ Exam Cost in 2026

As of mid 2026, the official CompTIA Security+ Exam Cost for a single SY0-701 voucher sits at $439 USD when purchased directly from CompTIA. This is a price increase from the earlier $425 rate, which itself was raised from $404 the year before, so treat any number you read online as a reference point and confirm the live figure on CompTIA's official store before you check out.

That $439 exam fee covers one attempt at the certification exam, delivered either at a Pearson VUE testing center or through OnVUE online proctoring. It does not include study material, practice tests, or a second attempt if you do not pass.

What the SY0-701 Exam Fee Includes

• One seat for the SY0-701 exam at a Pearson VUE test center or via online proctoring

• Access to schedule your exam within the voucher validity period, typically 11 to 12 months from purchase

• The official CompTIA Security+ credential upon a passing score

What It Does Not Include

• Study guides, video courses, or bootcamp training

• Practice exams beyond whatever free samples you find elsewhere

• A free retake if you fail on your first attempt

CompTIA Security+ Certification Cost Breakdown

Because the voucher is only one part of getting certified, it helps to break the CompTIA Security+ Certification Cost into separate categories before you commit to a study plan.

For most independent learners studying on their own with books and practice tests, a realistic total lands somewhere between $600 and $1,000 once you include the exam fee and preparation resources. Candidates who choose a full bootcamp program should expect the total investment to climb well beyond that.

Does the Security+ Exam Voucher Include a Free Retake

No, a standard CompTIA Security+ exam voucher does not include a free retake. Each attempt, including a second or third try, requires its own paid voucher unless you specifically purchase a retake bundle at the time of your original booking. CompTIA does not require a mandatory waiting period before your second attempt, but if you need a third attempt, a 14 day waiting period applies. Because a resit essentially means paying the SY0-701 Exam Price a second time, the retake bundle is often worth the extra cost if you are even slightly unsure about passing on your first try.

How to Lower Your CompTIA Security+ Exam Fees

There are several legitimate ways to reduce your total CompTIA Security+ Exam Fees without cutting corners on preparation quality.

1. Check academic eligibility. Students at qualifying institutions can often access vouchers at a significant discount through CompTIA's academic program.

2. Ask your employer about sponsorship. Many companies cover certification vouchers for employees pursuing security roles, especially when the certification supports a specific job requirement.

3. Buy through an authorized training partner. Some CompTIA Platinum Partners sell official vouchers below retail price while still providing the same exam and credential.

4. Bundle wisely. If you are not fully confident, a retake bundle purchased upfront is usually cheaper than paying for a completely separate voucher later.

5. Use free and low cost prep resources first. Official CompTIA study content, community forums, and free practice questions can reduce how much you need to spend on paid training.

SY0-701 Exam Price vs Older Security+ Versions

Candidates sometimes ask whether switching exam versions changes the SY0-701 Exam Price. It generally does not. CompTIA prices its current active exam version the same regardless of which specific objectives it covers, and pricing changes tend to apply across the board rather than being tied to a particular version. SY0-701 launched in November 2023 and is expected to remain the active version into late 2026, so most candidates preparing today will sit this version rather than an older or newer one.

Is CompTIA Security+ Certification Cost Worth It

For cybersecurity beginners, IT professionals transitioning into security roles, and network administrators looking to formalize their skills, the CompTIA Security+ Certification Cost is generally considered a strong return on investment. Security+ is one of the most widely recognized entry level cybersecurity certifications, it is approved for several US Department of Defense workforce roles, and it typically supports access to roles with salaries well above entry level IT positions. Weighed against a three year validity period and moderate renewal cost, most candidates find the certification pays for itself once it opens the door to their first security focused role.

Conclusion

The CompTIA Security+ Exam Cost for the SY0-701 exam currently stands at $439 for a single voucher, with additional expenses for study material, optional retake bundles, and renewal adding to your real total investment. Budgeting between $600 and $1,000 is realistic for most self study candidates, while bootcamp or instructor led paths can run significantly higher. Before you register, check whether you qualify for an academic discount or employer sponsorship, and confirm the current live price directly on CompTIA's official site since exam fees are periodically revised.