What CompTIA A+ certification is and what it takes to earn it

CompTIA A+ is a vendor-neutral certification that shows you can install, maintain, and troubleshoot computers and networks. It's one of the most widely recognized entry-level IT certifications, and many employers list it as a requirement or preference for help desk, technical support, and junior IT roles.

To earn it, you pass two exams: the 220-1101 (Core 1) and 220-1102 (Core 2). Each exam costs around $165 to $180 depending on your location and testing center, though some employers and training programs cover the cost. You don't need to be working in IT already — the certification is designed for people entering the field — but you should have some hands-on experience with computers, ideally through a job, internship, or personal projects.

The certification is valid for three years. After that, you can renew it by passing a renewal exam, earning a higher CompTIA certification, or completing continuing education credits.

Key Takeaways

  • CompTIA A+ requires passing two separate exams (Core 1 and Core 2), each covering hardware, software, networking, and troubleshooting from a practical standpoint.
  • Most people study for four to six months before taking the exams, using a mix of online courses, practice tests, and hands-on lab work.
  • You can take the exams at Pearson VUE testing centers, which are located in most cities and towns, or at home through their online proctoring option.
  • Study materials range from free YouTube videos to paid courses like Professor Messer, CompTIA's official CertMaster, or bootcamp-style programs that cost $500 to $2,000.
  • The certification is recognized across industries and is often a stepping stone to higher certifications like Network+ or Security+.

What the two exams actually cover

Core 1 (220-1101) focuses on hardware and networking. You'll need to know how to identify and install components like RAM, hard drives, and motherboards; understand how networks work at a basic level; and troubleshoot common hardware failures. The exam includes questions about mobile devices, printers, and the basics of how the internet connects.

Core 2 (220-1102) covers operating systems, software, security, and troubleshooting. You'll answer questions about Windows, macOS, and Linux; how to manage user accounts and permissions; malware and virus removal; and how to support customers or end users. Both exams include performance-based questions where you simulate real tasks — like configuring a network setting or replacing a component — rather than just multiple choice.

Each exam has 90 questions and you have 90 minutes to complete it. You need a score of around 675 out of 900 to pass, though the exact passing score can shift slightly. CompTIA publishes the exam objectives (the official list of topics) on their website, and most study materials are built directly from those objectives.

How to study: materials and timelines

Most people spend four to six months studying, dedicating 5 to 10 hours per week. If you already work in IT or have built computers as a hobby, you might need less time. If you're starting from scratch, you might need more.

The most common study path combines three things: video lectures, practice tests, and hands-on labs. Professor Messer (free on YouTube) is the most popular starting point — his videos break down each exam objective in plain language and are watched by hundreds of thousands of people preparing for A+. CompTIA's official CertMaster is a paid course ($150 to $200) that includes videos, interactive labs, and practice questions. Udemy courses (typically $15 to $50 on sale) from instructors like Jason Dion or Mike Meyers are another option.

For practice tests, Exam Cram and Kaplan both offer question banks where you can test yourself repeatedly. Many people take practice tests weekly in the final month before their exam date. Hands-on labs — where you actually build a computer, install an operating system, or configure network settings — matter more for A+ than for many other certifications. Some courses include virtual labs; others recommend building an old computer from used parts or using virtual machines on your own computer.

Registering for the exams and choosing a test date

You register through Pearson VUE, the company that administers CompTIA exams. Visit their website, create an account, and search for CompTIA A+ exam dates and locations near you. Most cities have multiple testing centers, and you can usually find an available slot within a week or two.

You can take the exams at a physical testing center or at home through Pearson VUE's online proctoring. The online option requires a quiet room, a webcam, a microphone, and a stable internet connection. Some people prefer the testing center because it's a familiar, controlled environment; others prefer testing at home to avoid travel.

You don't have to take both exams on the same day. Many people take Core 1 first, wait a week or two, then take Core 2. This gives you time to review if you didn't pass the first exam. If you fail an exam, you can retake it after 14 days. There's no limit on retakes, though each attempt costs the full exam fee.

What happens after you pass both exams

Once you pass Core 2, CompTIA sends you a digital badge and certificate within a few days. You can add the certification to your LinkedIn profile, resume, and email signature. Many employers search for this credential specifically when hiring for support roles.

Your A+ is valid for three years from the date you pass your final exam. To renew it before it expires, you can retake the exams, pass a CompTIA renewal exam (a shorter, cheaper option), earn a higher CompTIA certification like Network+ or Security+, or complete continuing education credits through CompTIA's approved providers.

After A+, many people move toward CompTIA Network+ (which covers networking in more depth) or CompTIA Security+ (which focuses on cybersecurity). Some pursue vendor-specific certifications like Microsoft Certified or Cisco certifications. A+ is often the foundation that makes those next steps clearer.

Cost breakdown and payment options

The two exam fees are the main cost: roughly $330 to $360 total for both exams. Study materials vary widely. Free options like Professor Messer's YouTube videos cost nothing. Paid courses range from $15 to $50 on Udemy, $150 to $200 for CompTIA's CertMaster, or $500 to $2,000 for structured bootcamp programs that include live instruction and job placement support.

Some employers cover exam fees for employees or people they're training. Military members can often use tuition assistance. Some community colleges and vocational schools bundle A+ training into their IT programs and cover the exam cost as part of tuition. If you're paying out of pocket, the total investment is usually between $330 and $800, depending on which study materials you choose.

Common mistakes people make when preparing

The biggest mistake is memorizing answers to practice test questions without understanding the concepts. A+ questions are designed to test whether you can troubleshoot and solve problems, not just recall facts. If you see a question about a blue screen error, you should understand what causes it and how to fix it, not just remember the answer from a practice test.

Another common mistake is skipping the hands-on labs. Some people study only by watching videos and taking practice tests, then struggle on the performance-based questions during the real exam. Spend time actually configuring settings, installing software, or working with hardware — even if it's in a virtual machine on your computer.

People also sometimes take the exam before they're ready because they set a test date too early. There's no penalty for pushing your exam back a few weeks if you're not confident. It's better to delay and pass than to rush and fail, then have to pay to retake it.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do I need to take Core 1 before Core 2?

No, you can take them in any order or even on the same day. However, most people take Core 1 first because it covers foundational hardware and networking concepts that Core 2 builds on. Taking them in order makes the material easier to follow.

What if I fail one of the exams?

You can retake it after 14 days. There's no limit on attempts. Each retake costs the full exam fee. If you fail, review the exam objectives, identify which topics gave you trouble, and study those areas more deeply before your next attempt.

Is A+ worth getting if I already have a job in IT?

It depends on your role and employer. If you're in a help desk or support role, it often leads to higher pay or better job titles. If you're already in a specialized role like network administration or development, it may matter less. Check job postings in your area to see how often employers list it as a requirement.

Can I study for A+ while working full-time?

Yes, most people do. Four to six months of studying 5 to 10 hours per week is manageable alongside a full-time job. Some people study in the evenings or on weekends. Others take a week or two off work right before their exam date to do final review.

What's the difference between A+ and other entry-level IT certifications?

A+ is vendor-neutral and covers hardware, software, and basic networking. Microsoft Certified Fundamentals is more software-focused. Cisco's CCENT is more networking-focused. A+ is the broadest entry-level option and is recognized across industries, making it a good first step if you're not sure which IT specialty you want to pursue.