COMPTIA NETWORK+ / EXAM COST Know the exam cost.
Choose your study budget.

Current exam and planning guidance

Network+ N10-009 allows up to 90 questions in 90 minutes and requires a scaled score of 720/900. Preparation schedules, salary scenarios, and materials budgets here are planning examples, not verified market prices or guaranteed outcomes. Practice percentages are optional review targets, not official pass predictors.

No waiting period is required between the first and second attempts. Before a third or later attempt, wait at least 14 calendar days after the previous attempt. Each new attempt requires payment or an applicable prepaid retake voucher.

Provider references checked September 8, 2026: Current exam details and objectives · Retake policy · CE renewal fees.

Plan your next step

The CompTIA Network+ exam costs the current regional exam fee for the standard voucher. With study materials and potential retakes, total certification costs typically range from $400-$800 depending on your preparation approach.

Understanding the full cost of Network+ certification helps you budget effectively and avoid surprises. The exam voucher itself is just one part of the investment—study materials, practice tests, and potential retakes all factor into your total spend. This guide breaks down every cost and shows you strategies to minimize your investment while maximizing your chances of passing on the first attempt.

Facts and planning estimates

Exam Voucher

the current regional exam fee

Total Budget

$400-$800

Retake Fee

the current regional exam fee

Validity

3 Years

Training Options and Costs

Various training formats are available to suit different learning styles and budgets:

Self-Study (Lowest Cost: $100-$300) Best for: Self-motivated learners with networking background

• Study guides and books
• Free video courses
• Practice exams
• Typical timeline: 2-4 months

Online Instructor-Led Training ($500-$2,000) Best for: Those who prefer structured learning

• Live virtual classes
• Instructor interaction
• Scheduled curriculum
• Typical timeline: 4-8 weeks

In-Person Bootcamps ($2,000-$4,000) Best for: Fast-track certification seekers

• Intensive 5-day programs
• Hands-on labs included
• Often includes exam voucher
• Immediate networking opportunities

Community College Courses ($500-$1,500) Best for: Those seeking academic credit

• Semester-long courses
• College credit available
• Financial aid eligible
• Access to college labs

Employer Reimbursement

Many employers offer certification reimbursement programs:

Common Reimbursement Models:

• Full reimbursement upon passing
• Partial reimbursement regardless of outcome
• Annual professional development budget
• Certification bonuses

How to Request Reimbursement: 1. Check your employee handbook or HR portal 2. Present the business case for Network+ (relevance to role) 3. Get pre-approval before spending 4. Submit receipts and passing score proof 5. Follow up on payment timeline

Government and Contract Positions: DoD positions often require or prefer Network+ certification under DoD 8570/8140 requirements. Many government contractors have robust certification programs covering all costs.

Study tips

• Compare the current retake bundle price with a standalone voucher and check its terms before purchase.

• Compare Professor Messer videos and Boson ExSim explanations with your learning needs and current product access terms; no combination guarantees a pass.

• Always check for employer reimbursement before paying out of pocket.

• Time your purchase around Black Friday or end-of-quarter for best discounts.

• Consider the total cost of failure—proper study materials are cheaper than retakes.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Buying too many study resources instead of focusing on quality over quantity.

• Skipping practice exams to save money—they are essential for success.

• Not checking for employer reimbursement before paying out of pocket.

• Purchasing the exam voucher before being ready to schedule.

• Ignoring free resources like Professor Messer that are genuinely high quality.

Study perspective

The sweet spot for most candidates is $400-$600 total investment: exam voucher, one good study guide, and quality practice exams. Free video courses fill in the gaps. Spending more doesn't guarantee success—focused, quality preparation does.