A Comprehensive Guide to Renewing Your CompTIA Security+ Certification

A Comprehensive Guide to Renewing Your CompTIA Security+ Certification

The CompTIA Security+ certification stands as a globally recognized benchmark, validating the essential skills required for core security functions and a successful career in IT security.1 It is compliant with ISO 17024 standards and approved by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to meet Directive 8140.03M requirements, underscoring its credibility and industry acceptance.1 However, like many respected credentials in the rapidly evolving field of information technology, the Security+ certification is not a lifetime award. It is valid for three years from the date you pass the examination.1 This three-year cycle is intentionally aligned with CompTIA's schedule for exam updates, ensuring that certified professionals remain current with the latest technological advancements and emerging security threats.4

Maintaining an active Security+ certification through timely renewal is paramount. It signifies a continued validation of expertise and serves as a tool to expand one's skillset, keeping professionals sought-after in the job market.1 The renewal process demonstrates a commitment to professional growth and assures employers that an individual possesses up-to-date knowledge to tackle current IT challenges.5 In a field where new opportunities and threats emerge daily, an active certification is an "ace up your sleeve" for career advancement.1 Failing to renew can lead to an expired status, potentially raising questions among employers about the relevance of one's skills 5 and requiring one to retake the exam to regain certification.6 This guide provides a comprehensive walkthrough of the CompTIA Continuing Education (CE) program and the various pathways available to renew your Security+ certification.

Navigating the CompTIA Continuing Education (CE) Program for Security+

CompTIA's Continuing Education (CE) program is the official framework for renewing your Security+ certification.1 This program is not merely a procedural requirement but is designed as a structured means for professionals to engage in ongoing learning and skill development, ensuring they remain current with new and evolving technologies.1 The Security+ CE program itself carries the same globally-recognized ISO/ANSI accreditation status as the initial certification.1

The renewal cycle for the CompTIA Security+ certification is three years from the date it was earned. It is crucial to complete the renewal requirements before this expiration date.3 Professionals can confirm their specific expiration date by logging into their CompTIA certification account.3

The primary requirement for renewing the Security+ certification, if not opting for a single-activity full renewal method, is to accumulate 50 Continuing Education Units (CEUs) within this three-year period.1 These CEUs are earned by participating in various approved activities and training programs that relate to the content of the Security+ certification.1

CompTIA encourages professionals to familiarize themselves with the CE program requirements early in their renewal cycle.8 This proactive approach, supported by reminder emails sent by CompTIA 9, helps in planning and avoids the stress of last-minute efforts, which might also limit available renewal options.4

Table 1: CompTIA Security+ Renewal at a Glance

Parameter Details
Certification Validity 3 years 1
CEUs Required (Multiple Activities Path) 50 CEUs 1
Standard CE Fee (Total for 3 years, if applicable) $150 7
Standard CE Fee (Annual Equivalent, if applicable) $50 7
Renewal Cycle 3 years from exam pass or last renewal date 1

Pathway 1: Renewing Security+ with a Single Activity

CompTIA offers several efficient options to renew the Security+ certification by completing a single qualifying activity.3 These methods often result in automatic renewal of the certification and, in many cases, a waiver of the associated Continuing Education (CE) fees. Choosing a single-activity renewal can be a strategic decision, balancing the speed of renewal with opportunities for significant skill enhancement. Options like completing CompTIA's CertMaster CE or retaking the exam offer a direct route to renewal, while earning a higher-level CompTIA certification combines renewal with substantial upskilling. It is worth noting that CompTIA's renewal structure tends to favor activities within its own ecosystem, often providing fee waivers for its proprietary courses and certifications, a benefit not typically extended when renewing via non-CompTIA certifications.3

Table 2: Single-Activity Renewal Options for Security+

Renewal Option CEUs Fulfilled CE Fee Status Estimated Effort/Cost Key Characteristic
CompTIA CertMaster CE for Security+ Full Renewal Waived 12 $199; 8-10 hours 12 Online, self-paced training; automatic renewal
Earn a Higher-Level CompTIA Certification Full Renewal Waived 12 Exam Price + Study Time Adds a new, advanced credential; automatic renewal
Earn an Approved Non-CompTIA Certification Full Renewal Required 11 Exam Price + Study Time + $150 CE Fee for Security+ Validates skills with other industry credentials; manual CEU submission likely
Pass the Latest Security+ Exam Full Renewal Waived 12 Exam Price (approx. $392-$404) + Study Time 1 Ensures knowledge is current with latest exam objectives; automatic renewal

Option A: CompTIA CertMaster CE for Security+

CompTIA CertMaster CE is an online, self-paced continuing education course specifically designed to help professionals renew their certifications, including A+, Network+, and Security+.1 For Security+, the CertMaster CE course costs $199 and typically requires 8-10 hours to complete.12

Successfully completing this course fulfills all 50 CEU requirements for Security+ renewal.1 A significant advantage is that the standard CE fees for the current renewal cycle are waived 3, and the certification renewal is processed automatically by CompTIA upon course completion.3

While CertMaster CE is presented as a "fast and convenient way" to renew without an exam 12, it's important to note a key requirement: participants must score 100% on all assignments within the course.13 This indicates that while streamlined, the course demands focused effort and a solid understanding of the material, serving as more than a passive review. Given that the $199 cost is only marginally higher than the $150 CE fee it waives, CertMaster CE can be a highly cost-effective and efficient option, particularly for those confident in their knowledge who seek a structured refresher and automatic renewal.

Option B: Earning a Higher-Level CompTIA Certification

A popular and strategically valuable method for renewing the CompTIA Security+ certification is by earning a qualifying higher-level CompTIA certification.3 Certifications such as CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+), CompTIA PenTest+, or CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+) will automatically renew an active Security+ certification.4

This "stackable" certification model is designed to encourage career progression.4 When a professional earns one of these higher-level certifications, the Security+ renewal is processed automatically by CompTIA, eliminating the need for separate CEU submissions for the Security+.3 Furthermore, the CE fees for the Security+ certification are waived for that renewal cycle.3

An important detail is that the expiration date of the renewed Security+ certification will align with the new expiration date of the higher-level certification earned.14 For example, if Security+ was due to expire in June 2025, but a CySA+ is earned in January 2024 (with a three-year validity to January 2027), the Security+ will also be renewed until January 2027. While this simplifies managing multiple certification dates, it means the effective "new" term for the Security+ might be slightly less than a full three years from the point the higher certification was achieved, a factor to consider for long-term planning. This pathway is more than just a renewal; it's an investment in advanced skills and a clear step forward in a cybersecurity career.

Table 3: Examples of Higher-Level CompTIA Certifications Renewing Security+

Higher-Level CompTIA Certification Fully Renews Security+ CE Fee for Security+ Waived
CompTIA Cybersecurity Analyst (CySA+) Yes 14 Yes 14
CompTIA PenTest+ Yes 14 Yes 14
CompTIA Advanced Security Practitioner (CASP+ / SecurityX) Yes 14 Yes 14

Option C: Earning Approved Non-CompTIA IT Industry Certifications

Professionals can also renew their CompTIA Security+ by earning or renewing certain qualifying non-CompTIA IT industry certifications.3 To qualify, the non-CompTIA certification must be earned or renewed during the active three-year renewal cycle of the Security+ certification.11 A critical condition is that at least 50% of the non-CompTIA certification's content must relate to one or more of the Security+ exam objectives. CompTIA reserves the right to make the final determination on relevance, considering not just content topics but also the cognitive level of the material.11

Upon earning a qualifying non-CompTIA certification, documentation, such as a copy of the certificate, transcript, or badge link issued by the certifying body, must be submitted to CompTIA.11 Examples of certifications that typically grant the full 50 CEUs needed for Security+ renewal include AWS Certified Security – Specialty, various Cisco certifications (like CCNP Security or Certified CyberOps Associate), EC-Council certifications (such as CEH or CND), ISACA certifications (CISA, CISM), (ISC)² certifications (CISSP, SSCP), and Microsoft Certified: Security Operations Analyst Associate.11

A crucial distinction for this pathway is that Continuing Education fees for the Security+ certification are still required when renewing via a non-CompTIA certification.11 This makes it a potentially more expensive route than renewing with CompTIA's own higher certifications or CertMaster CE, which waive these fees. This option is often pursued by professionals whose career paths or employer requirements direct them toward specific vendor or specialized non-CompTIA credentials.

It is vital to consult the current official CompTIA list of approved non-CompTIA certifications before pursuing one with the primary aim of Security+ renewal, as this list is subject to change.11 Certifications that were previously approved but are no longer on the list at the time of submission may not be accepted for CEUs.11

Option D: Passing the Latest Version of the Security+ Exam

One of the most direct ways to renew the CompTIA Security+ certification is by passing the latest release of the Security+ exam.3 Each new version of the Security+ exam incorporates updated content reflecting current industry trends, evolving security threats, and new technologies.4 Successfully passing the current exam ensures that the certified professional is thoroughly versed in these contemporary security concepts.4

Similar to completing CertMaster CE or earning a higher-level CompTIA certification, passing the latest Security+ exam results in an automatic renewal of the certification.3 Additionally, the CE fees for the current renewal cycle are waived.10

This option can be considered the "ultimate refresher" as it requires a comprehensive review of all current exam objectives. It is likely to involve the most significant study effort, comparable to preparing for the initial certification. This path may be most suitable for individuals who have been away from direct security roles for some time, feel their knowledge requires a thorough update, or whose employers specifically require re-examination. The cost involved is primarily the exam voucher price, which is approximately $392-$404, though discounts may sometimes be available.1 This upfront cost should be weighed against other renewal options, especially if CE fees would otherwise apply.

Pathway 2: Accumulating CEUs via Multiple Activities

If a single-activity renewal option is not pursued, professionals must earn the required 50 CEUs for Security+ by completing a combination of various CompTIA-approved activities.1 This pathway offers the greatest flexibility, allowing individuals to choose activities that align with their job roles, learning preferences, and professional development goals.4 However, it also entails more administrative effort, as it requires manual submission of CEUs for each activity and payment of the $150 CE fee for Security+.3

A common thread across many of these activities is the "50% relevance" rule: at least half of the content or duties involved in the activity must directly relate to one or more of the CompTIA Security+ exam objectives.17 CompTIA also clarifies that its review of relevance goes beyond just matching "topics" and includes an assessment of the "cognitive level" of the content or activity.11 This ensures that the CEUs earned genuinely contribute to maintaining and enhancing relevant cybersecurity knowledge. Meticulous record-keeping and careful adherence to documentation requirements for each activity are crucial for success with this pathway.3

Table 4: CEU Values for Multiple Activities (CompTIA Security+)

Activity Category Specific Activity CEUs Awarded (for Security+) Max CEUs for Security+ (per activity type) Key Documentation Snippet (Example)
Training & Higher Education Complete a Training Course 1 CEU per hour 18 50 CEUs 18 Completion certificate with hours, provider name, course name, date 18
Attend a Live Webinar 1 CEU per hour 18 10 CEUs 18 Completion certificate or registration email with hours, webinar name, date 18
Attend a Conference (per session) 1 CEU per hour 18 10 CEUs 18 Completion certificate or registration email with hours, session name, date 18
Complete a College Course (3-4 credit hours) 10 CEUs per course 18 50 CEUs 18 Transcript with college name, course name, date, credits; course outline 18
Complete an ACE Course (3-4 credit hours) 10 CEUs per course 18 50 CEUs 18 Transcript with course name, date, credits; course outline 18
IT Industry Participation Teach or Mentor 1 CEU per hour 19 20 CEUs 19 Lesson plan/syllabus (teaching); mentee validation & content objectives (mentoring) 19
Create Instructional Materials 2 CEUs per hour of creation 19 20 CEUs 19 Copy of materials, lesson plan/syllabus, creation date 19
Participate as a CompTIA SME in Exam Development Workshop 1 CEU per workshop hour 19 50 CEUs 19 Signed letter from CompTIA workshop coordinator 19
Publishing Publish an Article or White Paper (min. 4 pages) 4 CEUs per item 20 16 CEUs 20 URL/copy of published work with name & date; content description 20
Publish a Blog Post (min. 500 words) 1 CEU per post 20 16 CEUs 20 URL/copy of published work with name & date; content description 20
Publish a Book Up to 40 CEUs (total for book) 20 40 CEUs 20 URL/copy of published work with name & date; content description 20
Work Experience Relevant Work Experience 3 CEUs per year 17 9 CEUs (total over 3 years) 17 Employer letter on letterhead: job title, tasks, supervisor signature, CE year 17

(Note: The CEU values and maximums are subject to CompTIA's official CE program guidelines at the time of submission. Always refer to the latest information on the CompTIA website.)

Subsection 4.A: Earning CEUs through Training and Higher Education

A significant number of CEUs can be earned by engaging in various forms of training and higher education. CompTIA is very specific about the documentation required for these activities, emphasizing the need for detailed outlines and official completion records.18 This precision in documentation is paramount to ensure CEUs are accepted.

  • Complete a Training Course: Professionals earn 1 CEU for each hour of a completed training course, up to a maximum of 50 CEUs for Security+ renewal. The course content must be at least 50% relevant to Security+ objectives. Required documentation includes a detailed course outline and a completion certificate listing the participant's name, course name, training provider, completion date, and number of hours.16
  • Attend a Live Webinar: Attending live webinars yields 1 CEU per hour, with a cap of 10 CEUs for Security+. Similar to training courses, 50% relevance is key. Documentation involves a webinar outline and a completion certificate or registration email detailing the participant's name, webinar title, date, and duration. On-demand webinars or YouTube videos are only eligible if proof of registration or a completion certificate can be provided.18
  • Attend a Conference: Participation in relevant conference sessions earns 1 CEU per hour, also capped at 10 CEUs for Security+. The 50% relevance rule applies. Documentation includes a session content outline and a completion certificate or registration email with the participant's name, conference session name, date, and hours.18
  • Complete a College Course: Taking a 3-4 credit-hour college course relevant to Security+ can earn 10 CEUs, with a maximum of 50 CEUs applicable towards renewal. A detailed course outline and an official transcript showing the student's name, college name, course name, completion date/semester, and credit hours are necessary.4 This option is particularly beneficial for those already pursuing academic qualifications, as it allows them to simultaneously advance their education and fulfill CEU requirements.
  • Complete an American Council on Education (ACE) Course: Similar to college courses, completing a 3-4 credit-hour ACE-accredited course yields 10 CEUs, up to a maximum of 50 CEUs for Security+. Documentation requirements include a course outline and a transcript.18 The 50% relevance criterion must be met.

Subsection 4.B: Earning CEUs through IT Industry Participation

Contributing expertise and time to the IT industry offers another avenue for earning CEUs. These activities often involve sharing knowledge and can be a rewarding way to maintain certification.

  • Teach or Mentor: Professionals can earn 1 CEU for each hour spent teaching or mentoring on topics relevant to Security+ (at least 50% content match), up to a maximum of 20 CEUs for Security+ renewal. The same content can only be submitted once per renewal cycle. For teaching, a lesson plan or syllabus with the instructor's name is required. For mentoring, content objectives related to the Security+ exam and a signed document from the mentee validating dates and times are needed.4
  • Create Instructional Materials: Developing instructional materials relevant to Security+ (50% content match) earns 2 CEUs for each hour of creation, with a maximum of 20 CEUs for Security+. The same materials can only be submitted once. Documentation includes a lesson plan or syllabus with the author's name, a copy of the instructional materials, and the creation date.4
  • Participate as a Subject Matter Expert (SME) in a CompTIA Exam Development Workshop: This activity offers 1 CEU per workshop hour and can fulfill the entire 50 CEU requirement for Security+ if enough hours are accrued (max 50 CEUs). The workshop attended must correspond to the Security+ certification. A signed letter from the CompTIA workshop coordinator confirming successful participation is required for documentation.4 This is a significant opportunity for deep subject matter experts to contribute directly to CompTIA's certification program while meeting their renewal needs.

These participation activities not only provide CEUs but also allow professionals to give back to the community, enhance their reputation, and deepen their own understanding through teaching and content creation.

Subsection 4.C: Earning CEUs through Publishing

Contributing to the body of knowledge in cybersecurity through publications is another recognized way to earn CEUs. This pathway allows professionals to showcase their expertise and thought leadership.

  • Publish an Article or White Paper: Authoring an article or white paper of at least four pages in length can earn 4 CEUs per item. For Security+ renewal, a maximum of 16 CEUs can be obtained through this activity. At least 50% of the content must relate to Security+ exam objectives. Documentation requires a URL or a copy of the published work showing the author's name and publication date, along with a description of the content covered.20
  • Publish a Blog Post: Writing and publishing a blog post of at least 500 words on a topic relevant (at least 50%) to Security+ objectives earns 1 CEU per post. A maximum of 16 CEUs can be accrued for Security+ renewal via blog posts. Similar documentation (URL/copy with name/date, content description) is needed.4 This is a more accessible option for many professionals to share insights incrementally.
  • Publish a Book: Authoring and publishing a book with at least 50% relevance to Security+ exam objectives can earn up to 40 CEUs for Security+ renewal. Documentation requirements are the same: URL/copy of the published work with name/date, and a content description.20

It's important to understand that these maximums (16 for articles/blogs, 40 for a book) are for each specific activity type.20 While one could theoretically earn more than 50 CEUs through various publishing activities, only 50 CEUs in total are needed for the Security+ renewal.

Subsection 4.D: Earning CEUs through Relevant Work Experience

CompTIA recognizes that significant learning and skill maintenance occur through on-the-job activities. Professionals can claim CEUs for their relevant work experience.

  • CEUs Awarded: 3 CEUs can be earned per year for work experience directly related to the CompTIA Security+ certification.17
  • Maximum CEUs: This allows for a maximum of 9 CEUs over the three-year renewal cycle.17
  • Relevance: A key requirement is that at least 50% of the work performed must relate to one or more of the Security+ exam objectives.17
  • Documentation: To claim these CEUs, a letter from the employer on official company letterhead must be submitted. This letter needs to include the professional's name, current job title, the specific Continuing Education (CE) year for which the experience is being submitted, a description of the tasks performed that align with Security+ objectives, and the signature of the supervisor.4 It's important to note that work orders, performance reports, or resumes are not considered valid documentation for this purpose.17
  • Submission Timing: Submissions for work experience CEUs can typically be made at the end of each year within the CE cycle.17

For many IT professionals actively working in security roles, these 9 CEUs can be considered "low-hanging fruit," provided the documentation is correctly prepared and verified by their employer. This pathway validates the practical application and reinforcement of security knowledge in real-world settings.

Managing Your Renewal: Fees, CEU Submission, and Progress Tracking

Successfully navigating the CompTIA Security+ renewal process involves understanding the associated fees, correctly submitting earned CEUs, and keeping track of progress towards meeting the requirements.

Subsection 5.A: Understanding CompTIA Security+ Continuing Education Fees

For professionals renewing their Security+ certification through the accumulation of multiple CEU activities or by using a non-CompTIA certification, a Continuing Education fee is applicable.

  • Fee Amount: The total CE fee for the CompTIA Security+ certification is $150 for the three-year renewal period.7 This can also be viewed as an annual equivalent of $50.4
  • Payment Timing: These fees must be paid before the certification's expiration date.3 However, CompTIA offers flexibility, allowing the fees to be paid at any point during the three-year renewal cycle 10, rather than demanding a strict annual payment. The full amount must be settled before renewal can be finalized.
  • Payment Methods: Accepted payment methods include Credit Card, PayPal, or CompTIA CE Tokens.10
  • Fee Waiver Scenarios: The CE fees are waived if renewal is achieved through one of the following single-activity methods:
    • Completing the CompTIA CertMaster CE for Security+ course.3
    • Earning a qualifying higher-level CompTIA certification (e.g., CySA+, PenTest+, CASP+).3
    • Passing the latest release of the CompTIA Security+ exam.10
  • It is important to note that CE fees are not waived if a higher-level CompTIA certification does not fully renew the lower-level one (though this is generally not an issue for Security+ when renewed by CySA+, PenTest+, or CASP+) 3, or, as previously mentioned, when renewing with a non-CompTIA IT industry certification.11
  • Refunds: If a professional has already paid CE fees during their current cycle and subsequently chooses to renew by completing the CertMaster CE course, they may be eligible to request a refund for the CE fees paid.10

The fee structure, particularly the waiver conditions, subtly encourages professionals to utilize CompTIA's own renewal pathways and certifications.

Subsection 5.B: A Step-by-Step Guide to Submitting Your CEUs

When renewing through multiple activities, professionals are responsible for manually submitting their earned CEUs and supporting documentation via their CompTIA certification account.2 Each CE activity must be submitted as a separate entry.21

The general process for submitting CEUs is as follows 21:

  1. Log in to your CompTIA certification account (via CertMetrics).
  2. Navigate to the "Manage Certifications" section, then proceed to "Go to My Certifications."
  3. Select the "Continuing Education" menu item.
  4. Click on "Add CEUs" (or a similar option like "Submit CEUs").
  5. Choose the intent level (the certification you are renewing, e.g., Security+).
  6. Select the Activity Group that corresponds to the type of CEU activity being submitted (e.g., "Completed a Training Course," "Work Experience").
  7. Enter the required details for the activity, such as the provider name (if applicable), activity completion date, and the number of CEUs being claimed for that specific activity.
  8. Select the Documentation Language.
  9. Upload the required supporting documentation. Up to five documents can be uploaded per activity, with a total file size not exceeding 1MB.21
  10. Confirm that the submitted CEUs meet all program requirements by checking the relevant box.
  11. Click "Submit."

Upon successful submission, a confirmation message will typically appear, and the CEUs are usually automatically accepted and applied to the renewal progress.21 However, all submissions are subject to random audit by CompTIA. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure all activities and documentation are accurate and fully meet CompTIA's requirements before uploading.21 This audit risk underscores the importance of honesty and meticulousness in the submission process.

Activities such as completing CompTIA CertMaster CE, passing the latest CompTIA exam, or earning a higher-level CompTIA certification result in automated submissions or renewals, meaning no manual CEU entry is required for these specific paths.3

Table 5: Documentation Checklist for Common CEU Activities (Security+)

Activity Type Key Required Documentation Items (Summary)
Complete a Training Course Detailed outline, completion certificate (name, course, provider, date, hours) 18
Attend a Live Webinar Detailed outline, completion certificate or registration email (name, webinar, date, hours) 18
Attend a Conference Detailed session outline, completion certificate or registration email (name, session, date, hours) 18
Complete a College Course Detailed course outline, transcript (name, college, course, date, credits) 18
Teach or Mentor Lesson plan/syllabus (teaching); Content objectives, mentee validation (mentoring) 19
Create Instructional Materials Lesson plan/syllabus, copy of materials, creation date 19
Publish an Article/White Paper/Blog Post/Book URL or copy of published work (author name, date published), description of content 20
Work Experience Employer letter on company letterhead (name, job title, CE year, tasks, supervisor signature) 17
Earn Non-CompTIA Certification Copy of certificate, transcript, or badge link from certifying body (name, cert name, date) 11

(This checklist is a summary; always refer to the official CompTIA CE website for the most current and complete documentation requirements for each activity.)

Subsection 5.C: How to Track Your Renewal Progress

CompTIA provides tools for professionals to monitor their progress towards certification renewal. By logging into their CompTIA certification account, individuals can access their CEU status.2 The portal typically displays the total number of CEUs required for renewal (e.g., 50 for Security+), the number of CEUs already earned and approved, and the remaining CEUs needed.2

This ability to track progress empowers certification holders to manage their renewal proactively. They can see how far they have come, identify any gaps, and adjust their CEU earning plan accordingly to ensure they meet the requirements before their certification expiration date.8

Post-Renewal: Confirmation and Accessing Your Updated Credentials

Once all renewal requirements for the CompTIA Security+ certification have been successfully met – either by accumulating the necessary 50 CEUs and paying any applicable fees, or by completing a single qualifying activity that grants full renewal – the certification will be renewed for an additional three years.1

Renewal Confirmation

For renewal pathways that involve automatic processing, such as completing CertMaster CE, earning a higher-level CompTIA certification, or passing the latest Security+ exam, CompTIA will automatically update the certification status.3 While CompTIA sends various reminder emails throughout the renewal cycle 9, professionals can typically expect to see their updated status reflected in their certification account once the renewal is processed.

Accessing Your Renewed Digital Badge

CompTIA has embraced modern credentialing by providing digital badges through Credly's platform.24 These digital badges are a verified image of the certification logo, uniquely linked to the individual, and serve as a dynamic way to showcase certification status and achievements.24

Upon successful renewal of the Security+ certification, professionals will typically receive an email notification from Credly, prompting them to claim their updated digital badge.24 This badge can then be shared on various online platforms, including social media profiles (like LinkedIn), email signatures, digital resumes, and personal websites.24 Clicking on the badge allows employers and peers to view validated details about the certification, including the new validity period.

Downloading Your Updated PDF Certificate

In addition to the digital badge, professionals can also download an updated PDF copy of their renewed CompTIA Security+ certificate. This can be done by logging into their CompTIA certification account.26

The steps to download the PDF certificate are generally 26:

  1. Log in to your CompTIA account.
  2. Navigate to the "Manage Certifications" area and access your certification account (CertMetrics).
  3. Go to the "Certifications" tab.
  4. Locate the Security+ certification listing.
  5. Under the "Downloads" section for that certification, click the "PDF Certificate" link.

The downloaded PDF certificate will reflect the new, extended expiration date and will include a verification code that can be used on CompTIA's official verification page to confirm its authenticity.26 The seamless availability of both updated digital badges and PDF certificates ensures that professionals can quickly and easily demonstrate their current, active certification status.

Crucial Considerations for a Smooth Renewal

To ensure a hassle-free renewal of your CompTIA Security+ certification, several key considerations should be kept in mind.

  • Plan Early and Proactively: The most frequently emphasized advice is to begin the renewal process and CEU planning well in advance of the certification's expiration date.4 The three-year renewal cycle provides ample time, but waiting until the last few months can create unnecessary stress, limit available CEU opportunities, and increase the risk of missing the deadline.4 CompTIA sends multiple reminder emails to encourage early engagement.9
  • Renewing Multiple CompTIA Certifications Efficiently: For individuals holding more than one CompTIA certification (e.g., A+, Network+, and Security+), a highly efficient strategy is available. Renewing the highest-level certification held (for instance, Security+ or an even higher cert like CySA+) will automatically renew any lower-level CompTIA certifications that fall under its renewal hierarchy.3 The expiration dates of these lower-level certifications will then align with the new expiration date of the highest-level certification that was renewed.14 This "highest cert renews lower" rule can save considerable time, effort, and potentially fees, as renewal efforts can be focused on a single, more advanced credential.
  • Understanding the Consequences of Expiration: It is critical to understand what happens if the Security+ certification is not renewed by its expiration date.
    • Once a CompTIA certification expires, it cannot be renewed through the Continuing Education (CE) program.6
    • The only way to regain an expired certification is to pass the current version of the certification exam again.6 This essentially means starting the certification process over for that specific credential.
    • The 90-Day Grace Period: CompTIA does offer a 90-day grace period after the certification's official expiration date.9 However, this grace period serves a very specific purpose: it allows individuals to upload CEUs that were earned and completed within their original three-year renewal cycle and to pay any outstanding CE fees.9 Crucially, this grace period is NOT an extension to earn new CEUs or complete additional CE activities.27 It is a safety net for administrative completion, not for earning further credits. Misunderstanding this distinction can lead to the permanent loss of the certification if activities were not completed prior to the original expiration date.

By keeping these considerations in mind, professionals can navigate the renewal process smoothly and ensure their valuable CompTIA Security+ certification remains active.

Conclusion: Staying Ahead in Cybersecurity

Maintaining an active CompTIA Security+ certification is a testament to a professional's dedication to staying current in the dynamic and critical field of cybersecurity.1 The certification itself validates a foundational yet comprehensive skill set essential for protecting digital environments and advancing an IT security career.1

The CompTIA Continuing Education program, with its diverse renewal pathways, does more than just fulfill a recertification requirement; it actively encourages and facilitates continuous learning and professional development.1 Whether through advanced training, earning higher-level certifications, contributing to the industry via teaching or publishing, or simply staying updated by retaking the latest exam, the renewal process is structured to ensure that Security+ holders remain knowledgeable about evolving threats, new technologies, and best practices. This commitment to ongoing education is what keeps their skills sharp, relevant, and highly valued by employers.

Ultimately, renewing the CompTIA Security+ certification should be viewed not as an obligation, but as an ongoing investment in one's professional capabilities and career trajectory. By proactively managing their certification renewal, IT professionals can continue to leverage the credibility and opportunities that the Security+ credential provides, ensuring they remain effective defenders of digital landscapes and sought-after experts in the ever-evolving world of cybersecurity.

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