What Is the CompTIA PenTest+ Certification?

CompTIA PenTest+ (PT0-003) is an intermediate-level cybersecurity certification focused on penetration testing and vulnerability assessment. It validates your ability to plan and scope penetration tests, conduct passive and active reconnaissance, perform attacks and exploits, analyze results, and write detailed reports.

PenTest+ is vendor-neutral and covers both hands-on technical skills and the management side of pen testing, including planning, scoping, and communicating findings to stakeholders. The exam includes up to 85 questions (multiple-choice and performance-based) with a 165-minute time limit and a passing score of 750 out of 900.

PenTest+ is ideal for security professionals who want to specialize in offensive security. CompTIA recommends Network+, Security+, or equivalent experience before attempting PenTest+. It complements CySA+, which focuses on the defensive (blue team) side of cybersecurity.