Cisco Recertification Policy
Cisco Certifications are active for three years from the date certification is achieved, the only exceptions to this are the new entry-level Cisco Certified Support Technician (CCST) which are valid for a lifetime and do not have an expiration date.
Recertification is required within the three year validity period. Each time the recertification requirements are met the certification active/expiration status is extended for another 3 years.
It is important to remember that:
- Recertification can occur at any time during the active period by advancing to the next level of certifications, earning continuing education credits, or a combination of both.
- Recertification requirements must be met prior to the certification expiration date.
- Failure to recertify within the 3 year active period means that Individuals with expired certification(s) must complete the full examination process again to earn an active status.
HOW RECERTIFY
To recertify certification holders have the following options:
- Pass the appropriate Cisco recertification exam(s)
- Gain a higher level certification, which automatically renews existing certifications.
- Obtain the required number of Continuing Education (CE) Credits within the three year period.
Continuing education credits can be gained by:
- Completing an ILT Training Course.
- Completing an online Training Course.
- Attending Cisco Live Training Sessions.
- Authoring of Exam Items.
- A mix of passing exams and completing Continuing Education activities.
Further details on the Continuing Education Program can be found here.
