HTB CPTS (HTB Certified Penetration Testing Specialist)
HTB CPTS is a hands-on, intermediate penetration testing certification covering web, external and internal testing against an Active Directory network. Holders are expected to chain vulnerabilities and write a commercial-grade report. The target audience includes junior penetration testers, security analysts and IT security staff.
Exam Details
Exam in a dedicated lab reached by VPN or Pwnbox. HTB reviews the submitted flags and English report within 20 business days.
The exam voucher costs $210 before VAT ($249.90 including VAT). A voucher expires one year after purchase and covers two attempts. The second attempt is available only if a report was submitted for the first. The Silver Annual plan includes one specialist exam voucher per year; HTB raises its price from $490 to $550 a year on October 12, 2026.
Requirements and Renewal
Prerequisites
100% completion of the Penetration Tester job-role path and an exam voucher. HTB recommends intermediate knowledge of web and infrastructure penetration testing.
Renewal
Does not expire.
Exam Domains
11 domains| Domain |
|---|
| Penetration testing processes and methodologies |
| Information gathering & reconnaissance techniques |
| Attacking Windows & Linux targets |
| Active Directory penetration testing |
| Web application penetration testing |
| Manual & automated exploitation |
| Vulnerability assessment |
| Pivoting & Lateral Movement |
| Post-exploitation enumeration |
| Windows & Linux Privilege escalation |
| Vulnerability/Risk communication and reporting |
Comparisons
Certification Lists
Tools Covered by HTB CPTS
Hack The Box
FreemiumHands-on hacking labs, machines, and CTF competitions with academy courses and enterprise ranges.
Related Tool Categories
Password hash crackers, online credential brute-forcers, and authentication testing utilities.
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 long is the HTB CPTS exam?→
The exam lab is available for 10 days, and the report must be uploaded within the same 10 days after entering the exam.
How much does the HTB CPTS exam cost?→
An exam voucher costs $210 ($249.90 including VAT) and covers two attempts. The second attempt is available only if a report was submitted for the first. A second attempt must be started within 14 days of receiving feedback on the first.
What is required before starting the HTB CPTS exam?→
Candidates must complete 100% of the Penetration Tester job-role path and hold a valid exam voucher.
Is AI allowed in the HTB CPTS exam?→
HTB permits AI for local reference such as command syntax, but prohibits pasting exam data into public AI models, AI-written reports and autonomous AI agents solving targets.
Does HTB CPTS expire?→
No. Hack The Box states that its certifications do not expire.
Sources
Exam details are checked against official Hack The Box pages. Fees, exam versions, and renewal rules change; confirm with Hack The Box before registering. HTB CPTS is a trademark of its owner. This site is not affiliated with or endorsed by Hack The Box.