You’ve probably seen Security+ pop up in job descriptions and IT forums more times than you can count. It’s the entryway into cybersecurity for thousands of people every year, the badge that says, “I know my fundamentals, and I’m serious about this career.” But if you’re standing on the edge of this decision, one question keeps tugging at you: how much does the Security+ certification cost?

Spoiler: it’s not as simple as a single number. The exam fee is only the start. There are study materials, training options, possible retakes, and even indirect costs you might not expect. So, let’s unpack it—not just in dollars, but in what you’re really paying for when you chase this certification.

The Non-Negotiable: Exam Voucher

Let’s start with the baseline. The Security+ exam voucher costs $404 in the U.S. as of 2025. That’s the price you pay just to sit for the test. No voucher, no exam.

Sounds straightforward, right? But here’s the catch: most people don’t just hand over $404, walk into the test center, and come out certified. Unless you already live and breathe cybersecurity, you’ll need prep. That’s where the real spending starts to branch out.

The Prep Spectrum: From Shoestring to Premium

Everyone studies differently, and the way you learn will shape your total cost. Let’s look at the common paths.

The Barebones DIY Approach

If you’re disciplined and thrive on self-study, you can keep costs surprisingly low. A well-regarded textbook runs about $50. Add in a couple of practice exams—another $30 or so. Maybe you snag a Udemy video course on sale for $15. Combine that with free YouTube tutorials and online communities, and you could enter the exam spending less than $500 (voucher included).

The trade-off? You need the grit to stay consistent without outside accountability. Not everyone has that.

The Mid-Range Learner

This is where most candidates land. You want structure, maybe some labs to practice on, and more interactive material than just flipping through a book. Platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Cybrary, or CompTIA’s CertMaster Learn + Labs fall here, costing $200–$500. Pair that with your $404 voucher and a few practice exams, and you’re looking at $700–$900 total.

It’s still budget-friendly but has a safety net that gives you more confidence heading into test day.

The Bootcamp Route

Then there are the learners who want everything laid out: live instruction, practice labs, certification vouchers, and sometimes even career coaching. Bootcamps package it all—but the convenience and support come at a premium. Expect tuition between $1,500 and $3,500. Some include the voucher; others don’t.

This option makes sense if you value guidance, fast-tracking, or guaranteed results. But it’s a very different financial commitment.

Costs That Sneak Up on You

Even if you budget carefully, there are expenses people often overlook.

• Fail once, and you’re back at the register for another $404. Fail twice? That’s $1,200 before you even pass. That’s why investing in practice exams is more than just “extra study”—it’s insurance.
• It’s not money you hand over, but money you lose if studying eats into your work hours. Nights and weekends aren’t free when you think about what else you could do.
• Do you already have a laptop strong enough for virtual labs? Stable internet? If not, those upgrades tack on hidden costs.
• They’re usually small, but worth factoring in so you’re not caught off guard.

How to Keep the Cost in Check

Here’s the good news: you can lower your bill without sacrificing preparation.

• Hunt for discounts. CompTIA runs sales a few times a year. Students, military members, and employees of certain organizations can qualify for reduced prices.
• Bundle smartly. CompTIA sells packages that combine vouchers with training materials. Sometimes the upfront cost looks bigger, but the bundle saves you money compared to buying everything separately.
• Leverage employers. Many companies cover Security+ certification costs for staff. If you’re already working in IT, check with your manager—you might not have to pay a dime.
• Watch for sales on training sites. A $200 Udemy course often drops to $15 during promotions. Timing matters.

Being strategic isn’t about being cheap. It’s about putting your dollars where they matter most—resources that actually boost your chance of passing on the first try.

Is Security+ Worth the Investment?

Now let’s flip the question. Instead of asking how much it costs, ask: What’s the return?

The average entry-level cybersecurity role in the U.S. pays $65,000–$80,000. Government and defense positions often require Security+ before you can even apply. So whether you spend $600 or $2,000, the ROI is clear.

But beyond salary, there’s the psychological return. Walking into an interview with Security+ on your resume gives you credibility. It shows you’ve put in the work and proven your skills to a recognized standard. That confidence is worth as much as the paycheck.

Final Thoughts

So, how much does the Security+ certification really cost? Anywhere from $500 to $3,500, depending on how you prepare and how many extras you add. The exam fee is fixed, but everything else is up to you.

Here’s the bottom line: Security+ isn’t cheap, but it’s not just an expense—it’s an investment. You’re not buying a piece of paper; you’re buying credibility, career mobility, and a new set of doors opening in front of you.

The better question might be: What’s the cost of not pursuing it? If staying stuck in the same role, earning the same paycheck, and missing out on opportunities feels heavier than the price tag, then you already know the answer. That is Cyberkraft.