Last updated: October 15, 2026. CompTIA can change its continuing education rules and fees, so confirm current details in your CompTIA account before you plan.
A new Security+ version raises an obvious question: does it change how you keep your certification active? Based on what CompTIA has published so far, the renewal basics are the same for SY0-701 (V7) and SY0-801 (V8). What changes is your set of options, especially if you already hold a V7 certification.
This article is part of our complete guide to Security+ SY0-801. For the full CEU walkthrough, see How to Renew CompTIA Security+: The Complete CEU Guide.
What is the same for V7 and V8
- Validity: three years from the date you pass, whichever version you sat. A Security+ earned on SY0-701 stays valid for its full three years even after V8 launches and V7 retires.
- Standard renewal: earn 50 continuing education units (CEUs) within your three-year cycle and pay the CE fee.
- Higher certification: passing a higher-level CompTIA certification, such as CySA+, PenTest+ or SecurityX, renews Security+ and waives the lower certification's CE fee.
- Fees: CompTIA's CE fee for Security+ is generally quoted at $150 per three-year cycle, which is not charged yearly. Verify the current amount on CompTIA's site.
What is different, or worth knowing, if you hold V7
Passing the new version can renew the old one
CompTIA's renewal rules say you cannot renew by passing the same exam again. Passing a newer version, however, is a different exam. If your SY0-701 certification is approaching expiry after V8 launches, sitting SY0-801 is one way to renew. Confirm in your CompTIA account how it will be recorded before relying on it.
CertMaster CE may not be available to you
CompTIA's CertMaster CE courses are offered for older Security+ versions (SY0-601 and earlier on CompTIA's current listing). If you hold SY0-701 or SY0-801, plan on the CEU route or a higher certification instead, and check CompTIA's page in case that changes.
The retirement date does not touch your certificate
The June 11, 2027 retirement of the English SY0-701 exam only affects who can book that exam. It does not shorten or cancel certifications already earned.
Which renewal route fits you?
| Your situation | Practical route |
|---|---|
| Heading deeper into security | Earn CySA+, PenTest+ or SecurityX. One exam advances your career and renews Security+ |
| Staying in your current role | Collect 50 CEUs from relevant training, conferences, courses and work activities, and document them as you go |
| V7 holder close to expiry after V8 launches | Consider SY0-801, or the CEU route if you prefer not to retake an exam |
Tips to make renewal painless
- Write down your expiration date the day you pass, and work backward.
- Log CEUs as you earn them rather than at the last minute.
- Keep certificates and proof of completion for every activity.
- Choose training that is at least half relevant to the Security+ objectives so it qualifies.
- Pay the CE fee and submit before the expiration date. Paying the fee alone does not renew your certification.
Preparing for a higher certification?
If you plan to renew by stacking a certification, or you are getting ready for V8 itself, browse our CompTIA Security+ SY0-801 (V8) collection.
Frequently asked questions
Do I have to renew sooner because SY0-801 is launching?
No. Your certification remains valid for three years from your test date.
How many CEUs does Security+ need?
50 CEUs per three-year cycle, or renewal through a higher CompTIA certification.
Is the renewal process different for SY0-801?
We have not seen a separate renewal policy published for V8. The standard three-year cycle, 50 CEUs and CE fee apply, but check CompTIA for updates.
Can I renew by retaking SY0-701?
No. Passing the same exam again does not count as renewal.
What happens if my Security+ expires?
You lose certified status and must pass a current Security+ exam again.
Written by an instructor who holds Security+, CySA+, PenTest+ and SecurityX. CertInstructor is an Authorized CompTIA Partner.
0件のコメント