CompTIA PenTest+
Candidates for PenTest+ plan, scope, and run authorized penetration tests, then report findings with remediation advice. The V3 objectives span network, host, web application, cloud, and AI attack surfaces. CompTIA aims it at penetration testers and security consultants with three to four years in the role.
Exam Details
Multiple-choice and performance-based questions at Pearson VUE test centers or online. Performance-based items typically carry more weight.
CompTIA lists the PenTest+ exam voucher at $439 in its US store. A voucher with Retake Assurance costs $579.
Requirements and Renewal
Prerequisites
None required. CompTIA recommends three to four years in a penetration tester job role, with Network+ and Security+ or equivalent knowledge.
Renewal
Earn 60 CEUs in the three-year cycle and pay a $150 CE fee, pass the latest PenTest+ exam, or earn CySA+ or SecurityX.
Current Version
PT0-003, in effect since Dec 17, 2024.
Exam Domains
5 domains| Domain | Weight |
|---|---|
| Engagement management | 13% |
| Reconnaissance and enumeration | 21% |
| Vulnerability discovery and analysis | 17% |
| Attacks and exploits | 35% |
| Post-exploitation and lateral movement | 14% |
DoD 8140 Work Roles
9 work rolesThe DoD 8140 Qualification Matrix V2.1 lists PenTest+ as a foundational qualification option for these DoD Cyber Workforce Framework work roles, up to the proficiency level shown. Lower levels of the same work role are also covered.
Certification Lists
Related Tool Categories
Reconnaissance frameworks, attack-surface discovery engines, and public-data enrichment platforms.
Intercepting HTTP proxies, security assessment toolkits, and network exploitation frameworks.
Infrastructure scanners, CVE audit engines, container image inspectors, and exposure management platforms.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does PenTest+ cost?→
CompTIA lists the PenTest+ exam voucher at $439 in its US store. A voucher with Retake Assurance costs $579.
How is the PenTest+ exam graded?→
Scores fall on a scale of 100 to 900, and 750 is the passing mark. Questions carry different weights, and performance-based questions usually count for more than multiple-choice ones.
How long does PenTest+ last?→
PenTest+ is valid for three years from the exam date. Renewal requires 60 CEUs, a newer PenTest+ exam, or a qualifying higher-level CompTIA certification.
When did PenTest+ V3 replace V2?→
PT0-003 launched on December 17, 2024, and the previous exam retired on June 17, 2025.
Sources
Exam details are checked against official CompTIA pages. Fees, exam versions, and renewal rules change; confirm with CompTIA before registering. PenTest+ is a trademark of its owner. This site is not affiliated with or endorsed by CompTIA.