CompTIA Security+ is the most widely recognized entry-level cybersecurity certification and the most expensive of the three core CompTIA certifications. At $404 for the exam, Security+ commands a premium price that reflects its exceptional career value—particularly for government and defense sector positions where it satisfies DoD 8570/8140 compliance requirements. This guide covers every cost you'll encounter, proven discount strategies, and a realistic ROI analysis to help you plan your cybersecurity investment in 2026.
Security+ is a single comprehensive exam covering five security domains. The $404 price point makes it the most expensive core CompTIA exam—$46 more than Network+ ($358) and $151 more than a single A+ exam ($253). However, the salary premium Security+ commands more than justifies this difference, with certified professionals earning $15,000-$30,000 more annually than their non-certified peers.
Up to 90 questions • 90 minutes • Passing: 750/900
$404 USDSecurity+ preparation requires quality study materials due to the exam's breadth and difficulty. Here's what candidates typically spend:
| Expense | Budget | Standard | Premium |
|---|---|---|---|
| Exam voucher | $404 | $404 | $404 |
| Study guide | $0-$50 | $40-$70 | $50-$80 |
| Video course | $0 (free) | $15-$50 | $100-$350 |
| Practice tests | $0-$30 | $30-$80 | $50-$100 |
| Hands-on labs | $0 (free tools) | $0-$50 | $50-$200 |
| Total estimate | $404-$484 | $489-$654 | $654-$1,134 |
Security+ carries the highest price tag among core CompTIA certifications for several important reasons. First, it satisfies DoD 8570/8140 compliance for IAT Level II positions, making it a mandatory requirement for tens of thousands of government and defense contractor positions. This built-in demand creates premium career value that justifies the cost.
Second, the cybersecurity job market has a severe talent shortage. With over 3.5 million unfilled cybersecurity positions globally in 2026, Security+ certified professionals command significantly higher starting salaries than other entry-level IT roles. Average starting salaries for Security+ holders range from $55,000 to $75,000, with experienced professionals earning $80,000 to $120,000 or more. At $404 for the exam, the certification pays for itself within the first week of a new cybersecurity role.
Third, Security+ serves as a gateway certification. It's a prerequisite (or strongly recommended) for advanced certifications like CySA+, PenTest+, and CASP+. Employers view Security+ as proof that a candidate has committed to the cybersecurity career path and possesses the foundational knowledge needed for specialized security roles.
Military and DoD programs. Because Security+ is a DoD 8570/8140 compliance certification, military members have extensive free or subsidized access. Active-duty personnel can obtain free vouchers through the DoD COOL (Credentialing Opportunities On-Line) program. Veterans can use GI Bill education benefits. Military spouses may qualify for MyCAA (Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts) grants covering up to $4,000 for certification and training costs.
Employer sponsorship. Security+ is one of the most commonly employer-sponsored certifications because it directly impacts an organization's compliance posture. Government contractors, financial institutions, healthcare organizations, and managed security service providers routinely cover 100% of exam costs. If your employer doesn't have a formal program, present the business case: Security+ enables the organization to bid on government contracts and demonstrates due diligence in security staffing.
Academic pricing. Students enrolled in any accredited institution can access CompTIA's Academic Store for up to 50% off—approximately $202 instead of $404. This applies to community college, university, and many online programs. Some WGU (Western Governors University) programs include Security+ vouchers as part of their IT degree curriculum.
Bundle deals and retake insurance. CompTIA CertMaster bundles package the exam voucher with study materials and sometimes include a free retake (worth $404). Third-party providers like Dion Training offer discounted vouchers during promotional periods. For a $404 exam, retake insurance is particularly valuable—failing without it means spending another $404.
| Certification | Cost | Level | DoD Compliant |
|---|---|---|---|
| CompTIA Security+ | $404 | Entry-Mid | ✅ IAT II |
| ISC² SSCP | $249 | Entry-Mid | ✅ IAT II |
| CompTIA CySA+ | $404 | Mid-Level | ✅ CSSP Analyst |
| ISC² CISSP | $749 | Senior | ✅ IAM II |
| EC-Council CEH | $950-$1,199 | Mid-Level | ✅ CSSP Auditor |
Security+ offers the best price-to-value ratio in cybersecurity certifications. It's cheaper than CEH ($950+) and CISSP ($749) while providing comparable DoD compliance value. SSCP is cheaper but has less industry recognition and requires one year of experience. For entry-level to mid-level cybersecurity professionals, Security+ remains the gold standard investment.
Security+ is valid for three years. Renewal requires 50 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) and a $75 renewal fee. CEUs can be earned through training, webinars, teaching, or publishing security content. The most efficient renewal path is earning a higher-level certification—CySA+, PenTest+, CASP+, or CISSP—which automatically renews Security+ while advancing your career. This dual-purpose strategy maximizes your investment by combining professional development with renewal in a single exam fee.
Make sure you're ready before purchasing your $404 exam voucher.
Start Free Security+ Practice Test →The Security+ exam costs $404 USD. This is the highest-priced core CompTIA certification, reflecting its DoD compliance value and cybersecurity career premium. Total investment including study materials ranges from $404 to $1,134.
Security+ satisfies DoD 8570/8140 IAT Level II compliance, making it mandatory for many government security positions. This built-in demand and career value justify the $404 exam fee.
Yes. Government contractors, defense companies, financial institutions, and MSSPs commonly cover full exam costs. Security+ directly impacts compliance posture, making it an easy business case for employer sponsorship.
Absolutely. Security+ holders earn $55K-$120K+ annually. The $404 investment typically pays for itself within the first week of a new cybersecurity position, making it one of the highest-ROI certifications available.
$75 every 3 years plus 50 CEUs. Most professionals renew by passing a higher cert like CySA+ or PenTest+, which auto-renews Security+ while adding a new credential.
Yes. Active-duty military get free vouchers via DoD COOL. Veterans can use GI Bill benefits. Military spouses may qualify for MyCAA grants covering up to $4,000 for certification and training.