CompTIA A+ Certification Cost: What You'll Pay—and How You May Be Able to Earn It for Free
If you're considering a career in information technology (IT), you've probably come across the CompTIA A+ certification. As one of the industry's most recognized entry-level IT certifications, CompTIA A+ can open doors to careers in technical support, help desk, desktop support, and IT operations.
But before you begin your certification journey, one of the first questions you'll likely ask is: How much does the CompTIA A+ certification cost? The answer may surprise you—and there may be a way to earn your certification without paying hundreds of dollars out of pocket, such as through TechWorks , a live virtual CompTIA A+ program with tuition-free opportunities.
How Much Does the CompTIA A+ Certification Cost?
Unlike many professional certifications, CompTIA A+ requires candidates to pass two separate exams: Core 1 and Core 2. Each exam requires its own voucher, meaning you'll pay for two testing attempts to earn the full certification.
As of July 2026, the standard U.S. retail price is approximately $274 per exam voucher, bringing the total exam cost to about $548 before taxes or any additional study materials. Prices can vary slightly by country and are subject to change. CompTIA may also offer bundles and other packages that include different price points.
These costs also do not factor in retakes — in other words, another voucher should you fail the exam.
The total cost of earning a CompTIA A+ certification can easily exceed $700 to $1,000.
The Hidden Costs of CompTIA A+ Certification
The exam vouchers are only part of the investment. Many students also purchase:
Online training courses
Practice exams
Study guides
Virtual labs
Retake vouchers (if needed)
By the time these expenses are added, the total cost of earning a CompTIA A+ certification can easily exceed $700 to $1,000, depending on your learning path and whether you need to retake an exam.
For many aspiring IT professionals, cost becomes the biggest barrier—not motivation.
Why CompTIA A+ Is Worth the Investment
Despite the expense, CompTIA A+ remains one of the most valuable certifications for individuals entering the technology workforce. Employers across industries recognize CompTIA A+ as proof that candidates possess foundational skills in:
Computer hardware
Operating systems
Networking
Mobile devices
Cybersecurity fundamentals
Technical troubleshooting
Customer support
Whether you're changing careers, entering the workforce for the first time, or looking to build a long-term IT career, CompTIA A+ is often the first step toward higher-paying technology roles.
CompTIA A+ remains one of the most valuable certifications for individuals entering the technology
A Smarter Way to Earn Your CompTIA A+ Certification
What if you didn't have to shoulder those costs on your own?
Through TechWorks, JobWorks, Inc. offers eligible participants the opportunity to prepare for the CompTIA A+ certification through instructor-led virtual training, simulated hands-on learning, career coaching, tutoring, certification preparation, and employer connections.
Even better, many participants qualify to attend at no cost through grant-funded workforce partnerships, making TechWorks a free pathway into one of today's fastest-growing industries.
Rather than piecing together study materials and paying for expensive tuition bills, students receive structured instruction and personalized support designed to help them succeed on both the certification exams and in the workplace.
Launch Your IT Career Without the Financial Burden
The cost of earning a CompTIA A+ certification can add up quickly, but it doesn't have to stand in the way of your future.
If you're ready to build an IT career, TechWorks can help you gain the skills, confidence, and certification preparation you need—while potentially saving hundreds of dollars in training costs. JobWorks, Inc. is a 501c3 nonprofit organization and authorized Academic Partner of CompTIA.
Explore TechWorks today to learn whether you qualify for free training and take the first step toward earning your CompTIA A+ certification and launching a rewarding career in technology.