Top 11 Penetration Tester Certifications

Certifications are an important asset for any penetration tester in the job market. They demonstrate to potential employers that a person has the necessary skills and knowledge to perform the job. Certifications also enable a penetration tester to stand out from other applicants and prove their commitment to the field of security. Additionally, certifications can help a penetration tester stay up-to-date on current trends in the industry and show their dedication to keeping their skills sharp. Finally, certifications can open up opportunities for higher salaries or positions of greater responsibility and trust within an organization.

The purpose of the article is to provide an overview of some of the most popular certifications for Penetration Testers and explain how they can benefit a penetration tester's career.

What are Penetration Tester Certifications?

Penetration tester certification is a type of certification that helps validate the skills and knowledge of a penetration tester, who is someone who tests an organization's networks and systems for security vulnerabilities. The certification ensures that the individual has sufficient knowledge and experience to identify, analyze, and mitigate security risks in an organization's IT infrastructure. It also shows employers that the individual has the necessary skills to conduct successful penetration tests.

Having a penetration tester certification can be beneficial for both organizations and individuals. For organizations, it can help them identify qualified professionals who have been tested and certified in their field of expertise. This can help ensure that the organization is hiring experienced professionals with up-to-date knowledge about current threats, which can increase the overall security of the organization. For individuals, a penetration tester certification can demonstrate their technical abilities to potential employers and provide them with greater job opportunities.

Pro Tip: When considering a penetration tester certification, make sure to research the different certifications available, and consider the level of expertise needed for each. Additionally, look into courses or other educational opportunities that may help you prepare for the certification exam. This will give you the best chance at success when taking your certification test.

Related: What does a Penetration Tester do?

Top 11 Penetration Tester Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Penetration Testers today.

1. Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH)

Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) is a professional certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills to identify, assess, and mitigate security threats in an organization’s infrastructure. This certification is offered by the International Council of E-Commerce Consultants (EC-Council). It is one of the most sought after certifications in the information security industry.

The CEH exam consists of 125 multiple choice questions which must be completed within four hours. In order to pass the exam, candidates must score a minimum of 70%. The exam covers topics such as system hacking techniques, network scanning techniques, cryptography, malware threats and countermeasures, web application vulnerabilities and countermeasures, and more.

To become certified as a CEH, you must first register for the exam through EC-Council's website. After registering for the exam, you will need to purchase study materials from EC-Council or other vendors in order to prepare for the exam. Once you have studied for the exam and feel ready to take it, you can schedule your test date at any authorized testing center near you.

The cost of becoming a Certified Ethical Hacker varies depending on whether or not you are an EC-Council member. For non-members, it costs $950 USD for registration plus $100 USD for each retake if necessary. For members, it costs $750 USD for registration plus $50 USD for each retake if necessary.

2. Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP)

Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) is a certification that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in offensive security. It is a hands-on penetration testing certification, meaning that it requires the candidate to demonstrate their ability to identify and exploit real-world systems.

The OSCP certification consists of two parts: a course and an exam. The course, Offensive Security Exploitation Expert (OSEE), is an online self-study course that provides instruction on the fundamentals of penetration testing. The course includes videos, hands-on labs, and exercises designed to teach students the basics of offensive security. After successfully completing the OSEE course, candidates must take the OSCP exam which consists of 24 hours of practical hacking challenges. During this time, candidates must demonstrate their ability to identify and exploit vulnerabilities in real-world systems.

It typically takes around one month to complete both the OSEE course and the OSCP exam. However, some students may take longer depending on their level of experience with offensive security topics.

The cost for the OSCP certification depends on whether you purchase just the exam or both the exam and training materials together. If purchased separately, the cost for just the exam is $800 USD while purchasing both together costs $1,200 USD.

In order to get certified as an OSCP, you must pass both parts of the certification process: successfully complete the OSEE course and pass the 24 hour practical hacking challenge exam with a minimum score of 70%. Upon successful completion of these requirements, you will receive your Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) certificate from Offensive Security.

3. GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN)

GIAC Penetration Tester (GPEN) is a certification offered by the Global Information Assurance Certification (GIAC). It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s knowledge and skills in conducting penetration tests and vulnerability assessments. The GPEN certification requires successful completion of an exam that covers topics such as network security, system security, web application security, wireless security, and ethical hacking.

It typically takes about four months to complete the training needed to pass the GPEN exam. This includes studying for the exam, attending a training class, and taking practice exams.

In order to obtain the GPEN certification, you must first register for an account on GIAC's website. Once registered, you can purchase the GPEN exam voucher which will allow you to take the exam at a testing center near you.

The cost of the GPEN certification varies depending on your location and whether or not you are eligible for discounts. Generally speaking, it costs around $1,000 USD for both the exam voucher and training materials required to pass the exam.

4. EC-Council Certified Security Analyst (ECSA)

EC-Council Certified Security Analyst (ECSA) is a certification program designed to help security professionals gain the skills and knowledge needed to assess the security posture of an organization by analyzing the targets using penetration testing techniques. It is a comprehensive ethical hacking and information systems security auditing program focusing on network infrastructure, web applications, and compliance.

The ECSA certification requires a minimum of five years of experience in IT security or related fields. Candidates must have at least two years of hands-on experience in performing vulnerability assessments and penetration testing activities. Additionally, candidates must pass an online proctored exam that consists of 125 multiple-choice questions. The exam takes four hours to complete.

To get ECSA certified, you must first register with EC-Council's website and purchase the ECSA courseware package which includes access to the official training material and practice tests. Once you have completed your training, you can then take the online proctored exam from any location with internet access.

The cost for the ECSA courseware package is $1,199 USD for members and $1,499 USD for non-members. This fee does not include the cost of taking the online proctored exam which is currently priced at $500 USD per attempt.

5. ISACA Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA)

ISACA Certified Information Systems Auditor (CISA) is a globally recognized certification that validates an individual’s knowledge, skills, and abilities in the field of information systems auditing. The CISA certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to audit, control, and monitor information systems.

To become certified as a CISA, you must first meet the eligibility requirements set by ISACA. You must have five years of professional experience in the field of information systems auditing or security within the past 10 years prior to submitting your application. If you do not meet this requirement, you can still apply for the exam if you have at least three years of work experience in any combination of IT audit/security/governance/risk management/assurance activities.

The CISA exam consists of 200 multiple-choice questions that are divided into five domains: The Process of Auditing Information Systems; Governance and Management of IT; Information Systems Acquisition, Development and Implementation; Information Systems Operation, Maintenance and Support; Protection of Information Assets. The exam takes four hours to complete and is administered twice a year in June and December.

To get certified as a CISA, you must first register for the exam with ISACA by completing their online application form and paying the registration fee. Once your application has been approved, you will be able to take the exam on one of two designated dates each year. After passing the exam with a minimum score of 450 out of 800 points, you will then need to submit evidence that demonstrates your professional experience in order to obtain your certification.

The cost for taking the CISA exam varies depending on whether or not you are an ISACA member. For non-members, it costs $575 USD to register for the exam while members pay $415 USD. Additionally, there is also an annual maintenance fee which is currently set at $45 USD for members and $85 USD for non-members.

6. ISC2 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP)

ISC2 Certified Information Systems Security Professional (CISSP) is a globally recognized certification for information security professionals. It is designed to validate an individual's knowledge and experience in the field of information security. It is one of the most sought-after certifications in the industry and is held by many IT professionals around the world.

It typically takes up to six months of study and preparation to get CISSP certified, depending on the individual’s prior knowledge and experience in the field. To become certified, individuals must pass a rigorous exam that covers eight domains of information security: Access Control, Asset Security, Communications & Network Security, Cryptography, Identity & Access Management, Security Assessment & Testing, Security Operations, and Software Development Security.

To be eligible for CISSP certification, individuals must have at least five years of cumulative paid work experience in two or more of the eight domains. Alternatively, those without five years of experience can obtain an Associate of (ISC)² credential by passing an additional exam.

The cost for CISSP certification varies depending on the country you are located in. Generally speaking it costs between $599-$699 USD to take the exam and become certified.

7. CompTIA Security+

CompTIA Security+ is an internationally recognized certification that validates the knowledge and skills of IT professionals in the field of network security. It is a vendor-neutral certification that covers topics such as risk management, cryptography, access control, authentication, and disaster recovery. The exam measures a candidate’s knowledge and understanding of security concepts, tools, and best practices.

The CompTIA Security+ exam consists of 90 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. To pass the exam, candidates must score at least 750 out of 900 points.

To get CompTIA Security+, you need to first register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Certiport testing centers. You can also register online through the CompTIA website or by calling their customer service center. Once registered, you will receive a voucher code that you can use to schedule your exam date and time at one of the authorized testing centers.

The cost for taking the CompTIA Security+ exam varies depending on where you take it and who administers it. Generally speaking, it costs around $320 USD for the exam itself plus any additional fees associated with taking it at a particular testing center.

8. SANS GIAC Web Application Penetration Tester (GWAPT)

SANS GIAC Web Application Penetration Tester (GWAPT) is a certification that verifies an individual’s ability to assess and secure web applications. The certification is designed to demonstrate the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, exploit, and remediate web application vulnerabilities. It covers topics such as identifying common web application vulnerabilities, using automated tools for testing, and developing custom scripts for testing.

The GWAPT certification requires passing an exam that consists of 150 questions in three hours. The exam is offered through Pearson VUE Testing Centers worldwide. The cost of the exam is $895 USD. To obtain the GWAPT certification, individuals must also complete a SANS training course and meet other requirements set by SANS.

9. Mile2 Certified Penetration Testing Engineer (CPTE)

Mile2 Certified Penetration Testing Engineer (CPTE) is a certification that validates a professional’s ability to identify, analyze and exploit security vulnerabilities in an information system. The CPTE certification is designed to test the knowledge of a penetration tester who has experience in the field of ethical hacking and information security.

The Mile2 CPTE certification exam consists of 150 multiple choice questions and takes approximately 4 hours to complete. The exam covers topics such as network scanning, vulnerability assessment, exploitation techniques, post-exploitation activities, reporting and more.

In order to become certified as a Mile2 Certified Penetration Testing Engineer (CPTE), you must first pass the CPTE exam with a score of at least 70%. After passing the exam, you will receive your official certificate from Mile2.

The cost of the Mile2 CPTE certification exam varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it costs around $500 USD for the exam and associated materials.

10. Check Point Certified Managed Security Expert (CCMSE)

The Check Point Certified Managed Security Expert (CCMSE) is an advanced certification program designed to recognize the expertise of IT professionals who have mastered the skills and knowledge necessary to design, implement, and manage a comprehensive security solution using Check Point’s Security Management System. This certification provides the highest level of recognition for IT professionals working with Check Point products.

To become a CCMSE, you must first pass two exams: the Check Point Certified Security Administrator (CCSA) and the Check Point Certified Security Expert (CCSE). The CCSA exam covers basic security concepts and how to configure Check Point products. The CCSE exam focuses on more advanced topics such as troubleshooting, performance tuning, and security policy management.

Once you have passed both exams, you will need to submit a project demonstrating your ability to design, implement, and manage a comprehensive security solution using Check Point’s Security Management System. This project should include detailed documentation of your work as well as screenshots of your configuration settings. Once your project has been reviewed by an authorized instructor or mentor from Check Point, you will be awarded the CCMSE certification.

The time required to complete the CCMSE certification depends on individual experience levels and study habits; however, it typically takes between 6-12 months to complete all requirements.

The cost for taking both exams is approximately $1,000 USD each; however, this can vary depending on where you take them and which version of the software you are certified in. In addition to this cost there may also be costs associated with obtaining mentoring or instruction from an authorized instructor or mentor from Check Point.

11. EC-Council Licensed Penetration Tester (LPT).

EC-Council Licensed Penetration Tester (LPT) is a professional certification program designed to provide an in-depth understanding of the ethical hacking and penetration testing process. It is designed to help IT professionals understand and apply the latest security techniques, tools, and technologies used by hackers. The certification validates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the areas of vulnerability assessment, exploitation techniques, network reconnaissance, and reporting.

The LPT program consists of three levels: LPT Master, LPT Expert, and LPT Professional. To become a Certified Licensed Penetration Tester (LPT), one must pass all three levels. The certification requires a minimum of two years' experience in information security or related fields such as network engineering or software development.

The duration of the program depends on the level you are pursuing. The Master level takes approximately 4 months to complete while the Expert level takes approximately 6 months to complete. The Professional level takes approximately 8 months to complete.

To get the EC-Council Licensed Penetration Tester (LPT) certification, you will need to attend authorized training courses from an accredited training provider and then take an online exam for each level of certification. You can find a list of authorized training providers on EC-Council's website.

The cost for the EC-Council Licensed Penetration Tester (LPT) certification varies depending on which training provider you choose and which level you are pursuing. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $2,000 - $5,000 USD per level depending on your location and other factors such as discounts or special offers available through your chosen training provider.

Do You Really Need a Penetration Tester Certificate?

No, you do not need a penetration tester certificate to become a penetration tester. While certifications can be helpful in validating your expertise and skills, they are not essential for getting a job as a penetration tester. Having hands-on experience with the tools and technologies used in the profession is more important than having a certification. Additionally, many employers prefer to hire those with real world experience over candidates who only have certificates.

In order to become an effective penetration tester, you must be knowledgeable about various types of software applications and systems, such as Windows, Linux, Unix, Cisco networks and web servers. You should also understand network protocols such as TCP/IP and be familiar with vulnerability assessment tools like Nessus or Metasploit. A strong understanding of scripting languages like Python or JavaScript is also beneficial.

Having the right technical skills is only part of what it takes to become an effective penetration tester; soft skills such as communication and problem solving are equally important. You must be able to communicate security risks clearly to stakeholders and develop creative solutions for mitigating those risks.

Ultimately, having a penetration tester certificate may help you stand out from other applicants when applying for jobs; however, it is not essential for becoming successful in the field. Developing your technical knowledge and honing your soft skills will serve you better in the long run than relying solely on having a certificate.

Related: Penetration Tester Resume Examples

FAQs About Penetration Tester Certifications

1. What is a penetration tester certification?

Answer: A penetration tester certification is a credential that demonstrates an individual’s knowledge and skills in the field of security testing. It signifies that the holder has met certain standards of proficiency and can effectively identify, analyze, and exploit computer system vulnerabilities.

2. How can I become certified as a penetration tester?

Answer: To become certified as a penetration tester, you must pass an exam to demonstrate your knowledge and abilities in the subject matter. Generally, the exam includes topics such as network protocols, vulnerability assessment techniques, attack methodologies, and ethical hacking techniques.

3. What are the benefits of having a penetration tester certification?

Answer: Benefits of having a penetration tester certification include increased job opportunities, higher pay rates for security professionals with this specific credential, increased credibility when working with clients on security projects, and recognition from peers within the information security community.

4. Are there any prerequisites for taking a penetration tester certification exam?

Answer: Yes, most certifications require applicants to have prior experience in information security or related fields before they are eligible to take an exam. Additionally, some certifications may require completion of specific training courses or have other requirements that must be met in order to qualify for taking the exam.

5. How long does it take to get certified as a penetration tester?

Answer: The length of time required to obtain a penetration tester certification varies depending on factors such as prior experience level and whether or not additional training is required prior to taking the exam. Generally speaking though, it typically takes several months or more to gain sufficient knowledge and practice necessary for passing an exam successfully.