CompTIA A+ certification demonstrates competence as an entry-level IT technician.
CompTIA A+ certification validates entry-level skills in today's essential IT domains, including computer repair, software and operating systems, network administration, information security, cloud computing, and troubleshooting desktops and mobile devices. A+ certified technicians also learn customer service and communication skills to effectively interact with technical and non-technical employees.
CompTIA A+ certification is an ideal starting point in the learning plan of a new IT professional because:
- The A+ certification exam demands no prerequisites.
- A+ certification introduces candidates to the essential IT domains.
- A+ certification is globally recognized as the mark of a skilled entry-level technician.
- A+ certification is a mandatory hiring requirement for various entry-level tech jobs.
There are numerous accredited degrees and professional certificates featuring A+ exam prep and related coursework. Research and compare A+ training programs and A+ bootcamps in the U.S. and online.
Skills Measured by CompTIA A+ Certification
Here are the key skills and knowledge areas measured by the A+ certification exam. A+ certified professionals:
- Understand the basics of computer hardware, software, networking, and security.
- Identify PC hardware, peripherals, and network components.
- Set up and support PCs, mobile devices, printers, and smart devices.
- Install and configure motherboards, CPUs, power supplies, and expansion cards.
- Compare storage devices and use common backup and recovery methods.
- Install and manage Windows, macOS, Linux, Chrome OS, iOS, and Android.
- Explain virtualization and cloud computing concepts.
- Secure workstations, mobile devices, and small office networks against malware and social engineering.
- Understand scripting basics, remote access tools, and the appropriate use and limits of AI.
- Follow safety procedures and IT best practices, including documentation and change management.
- Troubleshoot hardware, software, network, and security issues.
- Communicate professionally with users and customers.
View the CompTIA A Plus Exam Objectives below for a more thorough curriculum.
CompTIA A+ Certification Exams
You must pass two exams to become A+ certified. The current A+ exam versions are 220-1201 and 220-1202 (V15), which launched on March 25, 2025:
- A+ 220-1201 (Core 1) - View Exam Objectives
- A+ 220-1202 (Core 2) - View Exam Objectives
A+ Exam Format: Multiple choice and Performance-based questions.
A+ Exam Duration: The time limit for each A+ certification exam is 90 minutes.
# of Questions: Exams 220-1201 and 220-1202 contain a maximum of 90 questions each.
A+ Exam Cost: A+ test vouchers cost $274 per examination.
Passing Grade: 675 out of 900 for A+ Core 1 | 700 out of 900 for A+ Core 2
The life cycle of CompTIA A+ exams usually lasts around three years from launch. Here are the past and upcoming retirement dates of A+ certification exams:
- A+ Core 1 Exam (220-1201) and A+ Core 2 Exam (220-1202) | Est. retirement date: September 2028
- A+ Core 1 Exam (220-1101) and A+ Core 2 Exam (220-1102) | Retirement date: September 2025
- A+ Core 1 Exam (220-1001) and A+ Core 2 Exam (220-1002) | Retirement date: October 2022
- A+ Essentials (220-901) and A+ Practical Exam (220-902) | Retirement date: July 2019
- A+ Essentials (220-801) and A+ Practical Exam (220-802) | Retirement date: June 2016
- A+ Essentials (220-701) and A+ Practical Exam (220-702) | Retirement date: August 2013
CompTIA A+ Certification Prerequisites
- Required: No mandatory prerequisites for A+ certification exam
- Recommended: 12 months of hands-on experience in an IT support role
A+ Certification Salary
Becoming A+ certified can help pave the way to various IT careers. Here are some jobs you can pursue with A+ certification and the starting salary range for each role:
| IT Career Path | Starting Salary Range |
|---|---|
| Help Desk Technician (Tier 1) | $41,000 - $56,500 |
| Help Desk Technician (Tier 2) | $47,750 - $66,750 |
| Help Desk Technician (Tier 3) | $59,750 - $81,750 |
| Computer Technician | $43,000 - $57,750 |
| Desktop Support Analyst | $55,500 - $78,250 |
| NOC Technician | $60,500 - $92,750 |
| Systems Administrator | $80,250 - $118,000 |
| Network Administrator | $88,500 - $126,500 |
Source for salary data: Robert Half, 2026 Technology and IT Salary Guide
A+ Certification Cost
The cost of a CompTIA A+ certification exam voucher is $274. You must pass two exams to get A+ certified -- 220-1201 (Core 1) and 220-1202 (Core 2) -- so the total cost of A+ certification exams is $548.
If you need training to pass the A+ exams, that will cost more. The cost of A+ certification training can range from cheap digital courses like the Google IT Support Pro Certificate to more expensive online certificates and degrees that cover other skills and technologies besides A+ cert prep.
A+ Certification FAQs
Here, we address some frequently asked questions from prospective A+ certified professionals.
Is A+ Certification Worth It?
Yes, earning your A+ certification is definitely worth it. For a relatively low cost and time commitment, the A+ certificate covers the skills and platforms you need to begin various IT careers. A+ is recognized by employers worldwide and is an excellent stepping-off point to other marketable CompTIA certs, such as Network+ and Security+. See where those credentials can lead in our guide to the highest paying IT certifications.
What Jobs Can I Get with A+ Certification?
CompTIA’s A+ certification can help you get numerous jobs, including help desk technician, IT security specialist, network administrator, and health information technician.
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