CCSP Practice Test

Candidates must have a minimum of five years of cumulative, paid work experience in information technology, with three of those years specifically in information security and one year in one or more of the six CCSP domains. A one-year experience waiver is available if you hold the (ISC)² CISSP credential, effectively reducing the requirement to four years of IT experience, with three in security and one in a CCSP domain. The CSA CCSK certificate can also be substituted for one year of experience in a CCSP domain.

While both are advanced credentials from (ISC)², the CISSP provides a broad, deep foundation across eight domains of information security. The CCSP is a specialized certification that builds upon that foundation, focusing exclusively on the unique architectural, operational, and compliance challenges of securing cloud computing environments. The CCSP delves deeper into cloud-specific topics like cloud data lifecycle, cloud provider management, and cloud application security, making it the ideal choice for professionals whose roles are centered on cloud strategy and security.

The CCSP exam is a computer-based test consisting of 125 multiple-choice and advanced innovative questions. Candidates have 3 hours to complete it. The exam is offered in multiple languages at Pearson VUE test centers worldwide. As of the latest update, the exam fee is USD $599. The passing score is 700 out of 1000 points. (ISC)² uses a scaled scoring model to ensure consistency across different exam forms.

CCSP certification must be maintained through Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits and annual maintenance fees. You must earn and submit 90 CPE credits over each three-year certification cycle and pay an Annual Maintenance Fee (AMF). CPEs can be earned through activities like attending relevant training, publishing articles, presenting at conferences, or self-study. This ensures certified professionals stay current with the rapidly evolving cloud security landscape.

The CCSP credential is highly relevant for mid-to-senior level roles involving cloud governance, risk, architecture, and security operations. Common job titles include Cloud Security Architect, Cloud Security Consultant, Cloud Security Engineer, Information Security Manager/Director, Chief Information Security Officer (CISO), IT Risk and Compliance Manager, and Security Solutions Architect specializing in cloud platforms.