CompTIA Security+ Exam Cost 2026: Voucher Price, Retake Fees, Renewal Cost & Total Investment
If you're planning to enter the cybersecurity field, one of the first questions you may ask is: how much does the CompTIA Security+ certification cost in 2026?
The Security+ certification is one of the most popular entry-level cybersecurity credentials worldwide. It validates essential security skills such as threat detection, risk management, incident response, and network security.
However, the real cost of earning the certification is more than just the exam fee. Candidates typically spend money on training courses, practice exams, study materials, and certification renewal.
This guide provides a complete breakdown of the CompTIA Security+ exam cost in 2026, including voucher price, retake fees, preparation costs, renewal requirements, and the total investment required to earn the certification.
Are You Ready for the Security+ Exam? try our sample Security+ practice tests.
Security+ Exam Cost in 2026 (Quick Answer)
The CompTIA Security+ exam costs $425 in 2026 in the United States.
This fee covers a single attempt at the official Security+ SY0-701 certification exam, administered through Pearson VUE testing centers or via online proctoring.
However, most candidates spend additional money on:
Study guides and training courses
Practice exams and exam simulations
Certification renewal fees
Retake vouchers (if needed)
Because of these additional costs, the total investment required to earn the Security+ certification typically ranges from $600 to $3,500, depending on your preparation method.
CompTIA Security+ Certification Cost Breakdown (2026)
Before diving deeper into each cost category, here is a quick overview of the typical expenses involved.
Cost Component | Typical Price (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
Security+ Exam Voucher | $425 | Standard exam price for SY0-701 |
Retake Exam | $425 | Same price if you fail the exam |
Exam + Retake Bundle | $808 | Discounted bundle option |
Study Guides / Books | $40 – $80 | Optional preparation materials |
Practice Tests | $50 – $200 | Question banks and exam simulations |
Online Training Courses | $200 – $900 | Self-paced courses |
Instructor-Led Bootcamps | $1,200 – $3,500 | Intensive training programs |
Certification Renewal Fee | $150 every 3 years | Continuing education fee |
Typical Total Investment by Study Approach
Study Approach | Estimated Total Cost |
|---|---|
Self-study | $600 – $800 |
Online training + practice tests | $800 – $1,200 |
Bootcamp training | $1,500 – $3,500 |
For most independent learners, the realistic cost of earning Security+ falls between $700 and $1,000.
CompTIA Security+ Exam Voucher Price (2026)
The Security+ exam voucher price in 2026 is $425 USD for candidates in the United States.
An exam voucher is a prepaid code that allows you to schedule the certification exam through Pearson VUE, CompTIA's official testing partner.
Security+ Exam Details
Exam Feature | Details |
|---|---|
Certification | CompTIA Security+ |
Exam Version | SY0-701 |
Exam Cost | $425 |
Number of Questions | Up to 90 |
Exam Duration | 90 minutes |
Passing Score | 750 (scale of 100–900) |
Testing Provider | Pearson VUE |
Exam Format | Multiple choice + performance-based questions |
The exam evaluates cybersecurity knowledge across several domains:
General security concepts
Threats, vulnerabilities, and mitigations
Security architecture
Security operations
Security program management and oversight
Candidates can take the exam either at an official testing center or online with remote proctoring.
Security+ Retake Fees and Exam Bundle Options
The Security+ exam voucher only covers one attempt. If you fail the exam, you must purchase another voucher to retake it.
Security+ Retake Cost
Attempt | Cost |
|---|---|
First exam attempt | $425 |
Retake exam | $425 |
Failing the exam once increases the total cost to $850.
Security+ Exam + Retake Bundle
CompTIA and some training providers offer bundles that include both the exam and a retake voucher.
Option | Price | Savings |
|---|---|---|
Single exam voucher | $425 | — |
Two separate attempts | $850 | — |
Exam + retake bundle | $808 | ~$42 savings |
This option is popular among candidates who want to reduce financial risk before attempting the exam.
Security+ Study Materials and Training Costs
Most candidates invest in preparation materials before attempting the exam. These resources improve the chances of passing on the first attempt and avoiding retake costs.
Security+ Study Guides
Resource | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
Security+ study guide | $40 – $80 |
Official CompTIA study guide | $150 – $200 |
Practice question books | $30 – $60 |
Books are usually the most affordable preparation option.
Security+ Practice Tests
Practice exams help candidates understand the difficulty and format of the real exam.
Resource | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
Online practice tests | $50 – $150 |
Exam simulation platforms | $100 – $200 |
Question banks | $60 – $150 |
Many learners combine books with practice tests to maximize their chances of passing. Good practice platforms help candidates prepare with:
Domain-based practice questions
Full exam simulations
AI explanations for answers
Smart review to focus on weak areas
These tools help candidates identify knowledge gaps and prepare efficiently for the certification exam.
Security+ Online Courses
Training Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
Self-paced video courses | $200 – $500 |
Premium online training | $500 – $900 |
Online courses provide structured learning and guided preparation.
Security+ Bootcamps
Bootcamps are the most expensive preparation option.
Bootcamp Type | Typical Cost |
|---|---|
Online bootcamp | $1,200 – $2,000 |
In-person bootcamp | $2,000 – $3,500 |
Bootcamps are commonly used by corporate employees whose employers sponsor certification training.
Security+ Renewal Cost and Continuing Education Requirements
The Security+ certification is valid for three years. To maintain the certification, professionals must either earn continuing education credits or retake the exam.
Security+ Renewal Fee
Renewal Component | Cost |
|---|---|
Annual CE fee | $50 |
Total renewal cost (3 years) | $150 |
Continuing Education Requirements
To renew Security+, candidates must earn 50 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) during the three-year certification cycle. CEUs can be earned through activities such as:
Cybersecurity training courses
Industry conferences
Security webinars
Publishing research or articles
Completing higher certifications
Real Total Cost of Getting Security+ Certified
The actual cost depends on your preparation method. Here are four realistic scenarios to help you budget accurately.
Scenario 1 — Self-Study
Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
Exam voucher | $425 |
Study guide | $50 |
Practice tests | $100 |
Misc resources | $50 |
Total | $625 |
Scenario 2 — Online Course + Practice Tests
Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
Exam voucher | $425 |
Online course | $300 |
Practice tests | $150 |
Study materials | $50 |
Total | $925 |
Scenario 3 — Bootcamp Training
Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
Bootcamp | $1,500 – $3,000 |
Exam voucher | Often included |
Study materials | Included |
Total | $1,500 – $3,000+ |
Scenario 4 — Certification With One Retake
Expense | Cost |
|---|---|
First exam attempt | $425 |
Retake exam | $425 |
Study materials | $200 |
Total | $1,050 |
For most independent learners, the typical total investment is between $700 and $1,000.
Is CompTIA Security+ Worth the Cost?
For many professionals, Security+ offers strong career ROI. The certification is recognized globally and is often required for entry-level cybersecurity roles.
It is also approved under the U.S. Department of Defense Directive 8140/8570, which qualifies professionals for many government cybersecurity positions.
Jobs You Can Get With Security+
Job Role | Description |
|---|---|
Security Analyst | Monitor and analyze security threats |
SOC Analyst | Respond to security alerts and incidents |
Cybersecurity Specialist | Implement security controls |
Network Security Administrator | Secure networks and infrastructure |
Information Security Analyst | Identify vulnerabilities and risks |
Security+ Salary Potential
Job Role | Average Salary (US) |
|---|---|
SOC Analyst | $70K – $85K |
Security Analyst | $80K – $100K |
Cybersecurity Specialist | $90K – $110K |
Information Security Analyst | $95K – $120K |
As professionals gain experience or earn advanced certifications like CySA+ or CISSP, salaries can increase significantly.
Frequently Asked Questions About Security+ Exam Cost
How much does the Security+ exam cost in 2026?
The Security+ exam costs $425 in the United States for the SY0-701 exam version.
Do you need to pay again if you fail the Security+ exam?
Yes. Each exam attempt requires purchasing a new voucher costing $425.
Is there a student discount for Security+?
Yes. CompTIA offers academic vouchers with discounts up to 40–50% for eligible students.
How long is the Security+ certification valid?
The certification remains valid for three years.
How much does Security+ renewal cost?
The renewal cost is $150 total over three years through CompTIA's Continuing Education program.
What is the cheapest way to prepare for Security+?
Self-study using books and practice tests is the most affordable approach, typically costing $600–$700 total including the exam.
What is the most expensive way to earn Security+?
Instructor-led cybersecurity bootcamps can cost $1,500 to $3,500.
Is Security+ worth the investment?
Yes. Security+ can lead to cybersecurity roles with salaries ranging from $70K to over $110K, making it one of the most valuable entry-level cybersecurity certifications.
Final Thoughts
The CompTIA Security+ certification remains one of the most accessible and valuable cybersecurity certifications in 2026. Although the exam voucher costs $425, the total investment depends on how you prepare. Most candidates spend $700–$1,000 in total, while bootcamp training can push costs above $2,000.
Despite these costs, the certification offers strong career opportunities and salary potential, making it a worthwhile investment for professionals entering the cybersecurity field.