A+ costs: two vouchers, four outcomes and how the retake clock runs
A+ needs two vouchers, one for each core. A clean pass uses two. A retake of one core makes three, and a retake of both makes four. There is no wait before a second attempt, at least 14 calendar days before a third, and every attempt is paid in full.
Count the vouchers before you count the money.
Why no price is printed
Voucher prices vary by country, currency, bundle and promotion, so a figure printed today could mislead you tomorrow. Check the CompTIA store on the day you buy, and compare single vouchers with a bundle for both cores.
What does not change is the structure, and the structure is where plans go wrong.
Count the vouchers
| Outcome | Vouchers needed |
|---|---|
| Pass both cores first time | 2 |
| Retake one core once | 3 |
| Retake each core once | 4 |
| Retake one core twice | 4 |
If you set a budget of two vouchers, you have budgeted for the best case. A realistic budget keeps a third in mind.
The seven categories
| Category | Can you reduce it? |
|---|---|
| Two vouchers | Compare single vouchers and bundles |
| Course or CertMaster product | Yes, by choosing one route |
| Hands-on labs | Yes, with a free home lab |
| One practice-test source | Yes, one source used thoroughly |
| Retake, paid in full | Partly, by booking when ready |
| Travel, or webcam and room for OnVUE | Depends on delivery mode |
| Continuing education | Plan it from the start |
The three budgets differ in training and labs, not in the two exam fees. An economy budget uses a self-paced course, a free home lab and one practice-test source. A standard budget adds official labs and retake cover. An intensive budget uses an instructor-led course.
Retake rules, per exam
For each exam:
- No waiting period between the first and second attempt.
- At least 14 calendar days from your last attempt before a third or later attempt.
- The full exam price every time.
Because the rules apply to each core separately, a failed Core 1 does not hold up Core 2.
Why bundles need a second look
A bundle can look cheaper on paper. Whether it is depends on its terms, so ask the seller the questions below before you pay, and hold off on the second voucher until the first date is booked.
Questions for a bundle seller
Before you pay for a bundle, ask three things in writing: whether it includes retake cover, since a retake is otherwise a full-price extra; what the expiry date of the second voucher is; and if you can use it on a later date of your choice. Keep the answers with your budget.
Ask your employer
If your job involves support work, ask if your employer will sponsor one or both vouchers. Put the request in writing and list the items: two vouchers, one retake and study time.
Write your budget twice
Write the best-case total, then the total with one extra voucher. If the second figure is not affordable, the plan needs a longer timeline or a smaller course budget, not hope.
Questions readers ask
How many vouchers does A+ need?
Is there a waiting period between attempts?
Do I pay full price for a retake?
This article is independent and is not endorsed by CompTIA. Facts change: confirm them on the official page before you act.