Security+ V7 or V8: which exam to take now
Security+ version 8 (SY0-801) is expected to start on or around November 17, 2026. Version 7 (SY0-701) stays open in English until June 11, 2027. If you're already studying for V7 and can test before spring 2027, take V7. If you're starting from zero now, plan for V8. The V7 voucher is $439; the V8 price isn't posted yet. Checked on Nov 10, 2026.
Show my cert and total costOr jump to which version to book.
The two exams side by side
| Detail | V7 | V8 |
|---|---|---|
| Exam code | SY0-701 | SY0-801 |
| Started | Nov 7, 2023 | Expected on or around Nov 17, 2026 |
| Retires | June 11, 2027 (English) | About 3 years after launch |
| Questions | Up to 90 | Up to 90 |
| Time | 90 minutes | 90 minutes |
| Passing score | 750 of 900 | 750 of 900 |
| Languages | English, Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish, Thai | English at launch |
| Suggested experience | Network+ and 2 years in security or systems admin | 2 years as a security admin |
| Voucher (US) | $439 | Check price on CompTIA's V8 page |
| Free Professor Messer course | Yes | None listed yet |
Which one to book
- Take V7 if you've already studied V7 material and can test by about April 2027. That leaves room for a retake before June 11.
- Take V7 if you need the exam in Japanese, Portuguese, Spanish or Thai. V8 starts in English only.
- Plan for V8 if you're starting now and will test after spring 2027. You won't race the V7 cutoff.
- Either way, you renew Security+ every three years with $150 in fees and logged training.
One thing we couldn't confirm: CompTIA's pages don't say whether a voucher bought now can be used for V8. Vouchers last 12 months. Ask CompTIA before you buy if you plan to take V8.
Still deciding whether Security+ is your first cert? Read which cert to take first, or see all cert costs.