How many years does CompTIA A+ last?

Your CompTIA A+ certification has a set lifespan, and understanding how long it stays valid can help you plan your career path. Let's get into the details about maintaining your certification status.

The Basic Timeline

The CompTIA A+ certification remains valid for three years from the date you pass your exams. This three-year period allows you to build your career and gain hands-on experience in the tech field. During this time, your certification tells employers you have mastered computer hardware, software, and operating systems. Similar to renewing a driver's license, your A+ certification needs updates to reflect your current technology knowledge.

Why Certifications Need to Be Renewed

Technology shifts so fast these days that knowledge from three years ago might not apply today. Consider phones from three years ago versus current models - the differences stand out. That's the reason CompTIA asks certification holders to renew. They want to ensure everyone with an A+ certification understands the newest technology and can handle modern tech issues. Staying current mirrors updating your apps - necessary for the best features and security.

Ways to Keep Your Certification Active

Several options exist for maintaining your A+ certification after three years. One path leads through taking the newest version of the A+ exam. But retaking tests isn't the only way forward. CompTIA created an easier method called continuing education (CE). With CE, various activities earn points that renew your certification. These activities range from training courses and conferences to earning other certifications or teaching others about technology.

Understanding Continuing Education Credits

The CE system operates on points. You'll need to collect continuing education units (CEUs) during your three-year certification period. A+ certification requires 20 CEUs before expiration. You can gather these points through multiple channels, picking what suits you best. Some professionals prefer online courses, while others attend tech conferences or write IT articles.

The Cost of Renewal

Maintaining an active certification comes with costs, but less than retaking the exams. Choosing the CE program means paying an annual fee to CompTIA. This fee supports the certification program's management and updates. The annual fee amounts to much less than retaking the exams, making it appealing for many IT professionals. Consider it an investment in your professional credentials.

What Happens If Your Certification Expires

Should your A+ certification expire, you'll need to start fresh by taking the current version of both A+ exams to regain certification. This means additional studying and higher costs than maintaining your renewal. Similar to a lapsed car insurance policy - you can get it back, but keeping it current saves time and money.

Planning for Renewal

Success with A+ certification renewal comes from advance planning. Start earning CE credits early in your three-year period, and maintain records of your accomplishments. CompTIA offers an online portal for logging activities and tracking needed credits. This functions as your professional certification dashboard, tracking your path toward renewal goals.

Making the Most of Your Certification Period

During your active A+ certification period, many opportunities arise to simplify renewal. Use training at work, join IT professional groups, and stay informed about tech news. These activities often count toward CE credits while boosting your job skills. Active engagement with technology and learning makes certification maintenance easier.