CEH exam eligibility: Application process & requirements guide

If you're pursuing a career in ethical hacking, earning the CEH certification can demonstrate your ability to identify vulnerabilities and protect systems from cyberattacks. The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) credential helps you stay current with emerging attack techniques while proving to employers you have the skills needed in today's cybersecurity landscape.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about CEH exam eligibility, including application process requirements, scheduling procedures, preparation strategies and answers to common questions like "how long is the CEH exam" and "how much does the CEH certification cost."

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CEH certification eligibility requirements

Before applying for the CEH exam, you must verify your eligibility according to EC-Council standards. There are two distinct pathways to meet the CEH requirements for certification, both requiring approval before you can register for the exam.

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Option 1: Official training pathway

Complete an official training course accredited by EC-Council, like the Infosec Institute Ethical Hacking Boot Camp. This is often the preferred method for meeting CEH exam eligibility criteria because:

• Training programs are specifically designed to cover all exam domains
• Many courses include CEH study resources and an exam voucher
• Some programs offer comprehensive preparation for multiple certifications

Option 2: Experience-based application process

If you prefer self-study, the CEH application process requires meeting these specific criteria:

• Two years of verifiable work experience in any of these domains:
  • Information Security and Ethical Hacking Overview
  • Reconnaissance Techniques
  • System Hacking Phases and Attack Techniques
  • Network and Perimeter Hacking
  • Web Application Hacking
  • Wireless Network Hacking
  • Mobile Platform, IoT, and OT Hacking
  • Cloud Computing
  • Cryptography
• $100 non-refundable eligibility application fee (waived if you hold a CEH certification from versions 1 to 7)

For instructors who teach ethical hacking courses or individuals with a Ph.D. in a relevant field, EC-Council waives the experience requirements. However, you must still submit the eligibility application form.

After submitting your application, EC-Council typically responds within five to 10 business days. Approved applications remain valid for three months, during which you must purchase an exam voucher. All exam vouchers are valid for one year from the purchase date.

How to apply for CEH exam registration

Once you've been approved for the CEH certification exam, EC-Council provides a voucher code that enables you to schedule your test. Here's how the CEH exam registration process works:

1. Receive your EC-Council voucher code upon approval
2. Alternatively, purchase a voucher directly through Pearson VUE
3. Schedule your exam at either:
   • EC-Council exam centers (located at various universities and community colleges)
   • Pearson VUE testing centers (available in almost every state)
   • Via virtual proctoring by EC-Council

The flexibility in testing locations makes the certification accessible regardless of your geographic location, though availability may vary by region.

CEH v13 eligibility and latest updates

The current version, CEH v13, uses Exam Blueprint v5, updated in September 2024. While the domain structure remains similar to previous versions, CEH v13 updates introduce significant AI integration into the certification framework.

CEH v13 eligibility requirements remain the same as previous versions, but the exam content now requires candidates to demonstrate proficiency in AI-driven cybersecurity. The certification equips professionals with several advanced capabilities:

• Adapting to evolving threats through AI-driven learning methodologies
• Increasing productivity and efficiency using artificial intelligence tools
• Making informed security decisions with AI-enhanced analysis techniques
• Detecting sophisticated threats that traditional methods might miss

These updates reflect EC-Council's commitment to keeping the ethical hacking certification relevant as security technologies evolve.

How much is the CEH exam?

The CEH exam cost varies depending on your chosen pathway:

• Official training pathway: Exam voucher typically included in course fee (ranging from $2,500-$4,500)
• Self-study pathway: $1,199 USD for the exam voucher purchased directly from EC-Council
• Additional costs: $100 eligibility application fee (if taking the experience-based route)
• Retake fees: Discounted vouchers available for subsequent attempts

Many candidates find that how much the CEH certification costs depends on their preparation method. Comprehensive training programs often provide better value by including exam vouchers and additional resources.

Understanding how much the CEH certification process costs helps you budget appropriately for both the application fee and exam voucher expenses.

How long is the CEH exam? Complete timing guide

The CEH exam is 4 hours long, giving candidates sufficient time to work through all 125 multiple-choice questions comfortably. Understanding the CEH exam length and time management strategies is crucial for success.

CEH exam duration breakdown

With 4 hours to complete 125 questions, you have approximately 1.9 minutes per question. This timing allows for:

• Initial review: Quickly read through each question
• Analysis time: Consider multiple-choice options carefully
• Final review: Return to flagged questions if time permits

Time management tips for the 4-hour CEH exam

To maximize your performance during the CEH exam's 4-hour timeframe:

• Pace yourself: Aim to complete roughly 31 questions per hour.
• Flag difficult questions: Mark challenging items to revisit later.
• Stay focused: The 4-hour duration can be mentally demanding.
• Use your time wisely: Don't spend too long on any single question.

Many successful candidates report that the 4-hour CEH exam length provides adequate time to demonstrate their ethical hacking knowledge without feeling rushed.

CEH exam format and testing rules

Understanding the CEH examination procedures can reduce test anxiety and help prevent accidental rule violations. Here's what to expect on exam day:

• Exam duration: Four hours
• Question count: 125 multiple-choice questions
• Delivery method: Digital application
• Break policy: No breaks unless specified by the proctor
• Passing score: Varies, but roughly 60%–85%
• Refreshments: Beverages allowed in any container; food prohibited

Be aware that certain actions can invalidate your CEH exam attempt, resulting in automatic failure:

• Talking or mumbling repeatedly after receiving a warning
• Viewing another test taker's screen
• Photographing any portion of the exam
• Violating the non-disclosure agreement signed before testing
• Leaving the testing area outside of authorized breaks

Following the CEH exam tips from our experienced instructors can help you avoid these pitfalls while maximizing your chances of success during the 4-hour testing period.

Retakes and appeals process

If you don't pass the ethical hacking certification exam on your first attempt, EC-Council allows retakes according to these guidelines:

• First retake: No waiting period required
• Subsequent retakes: 14-day cooling period between attempts
• Maximum attempts: Five retakes within a 12-month period
• Retake vouchers: Available at discounted rates through EC-Council

Many training providers, including Infosec, offer an Exam Pass Guarantee that includes a free second attempt if you don't pass initially.

EC-Council also maintains an appeals process for candidates who believe their exam was scored incorrectly. To appeal, you must:

1. Complete the official appeal form
2. Email the form with supporting evidence and exam transcript to certmanager@eccouncil.org
3. Submit your appeal within seven days of the exam date

Appeals are reviewed by up to three governing bodies depending on how far the candidate pursues the process: The EC-Council, the Scheme Committee and the Honorary Council.

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Is the CEH exam difficult?

While EC-Council doesn't publish official pass rates for the CEH certification exam, many candidates successfully earn their credentials on the first attempt. Professionals who have obtained the certification often credit their success to comprehensive preparation, including:

• Enrolling in EC-Council-approved CEH online courses
• Utilizing a diverse range of study materials
• Practicing with hands-on labs and scenarios
• Following a structured study plan
• Preparing for the 4-hour exam duration through timed practice tests

The 4-hour CEH exam requires both technical knowledge and stamina, making proper preparation essential for success. When considering how much to invest in CEH preparation, remember that comprehensive training often leads to first-attempt success, maximizing the value of your certification investment.

For optimal preparation, consider Infosec's specialized training options designed to align with the ethical hacking qualification process and security professional verification standards required by EC-Council.

Ready to start your CEH certification journey? Explore our comprehensive self-paced and boot camp training resources designed to help you meet CEH certification eligibility requirements and succeed in your cybersecurity career.