CEH CERTIFICATION

Certified Ethical Hacker - Master the Tools and Techniques of Cybersecurity

Think like a hacker to defend like a pro

Exam Details Check Eligibility

CEH Exam Details

Complete Exam Information

Exam Duration

4 hours to complete the exam

125 multiple-choice questions

Practical exam: 6 hours (CEH Practical)

Exam Dates

Year-round testing at authorized centers

Available at ECC Exam Centers and Pearson VUE

Next testing period: Available monthly

Question Format

125 multiple-choice questions

Scenario-based questions

Single best answer format

Exam Mode

Computer-based testing

Available at ECC exam centers and Pearson VUE

Online proctored option available (iClass)

Scoring & Passing

Score range: 0-100%

Passing score: 60-85% (varies by exam version)

Immediate preliminary score report

Registration & Fees

Exam Fee: $1,199 USD

ECC Exam Center: $950 USD

Training + Exam packages available

CEH Exam Modules

The CEH exam covers comprehensive ethical hacking modules that teach you to think and work like a hacker (but ethically) to better defend organizations.

🌐

Reconnaissance

Footprinting and information gathering techniques

🔍

Scanning

Network and vulnerability scanning methodologies

🚪

Gaining Access

System hacking and exploitation techniques

🔒

Maintaining Access

Backdoors, trojans, and persistence mechanisms

🧹

Covering Tracks

Steganography and clearing logs

☁️

Cloud Security

Cloud computing threats and countermeasures

📱

Mobile Platforms

Android and iOS security assessment

🕵️

Social Engineering

Human element exploitation techniques

📊

Cryptography

Encryption algorithms and cryptanalysis

🛡️

Pen Testing

Comprehensive penetration testing methodology

Eligibility Requirements

Direct Eligibility

  • Minimum 2 years of information security-related experience
  • Submit a valid application form
  • Pay the applicable exam fee
  • Attend official EC-Council training (optional but recommended)

Through Training

  • Attend official EC-Council training
  • No prior experience required if attending official training
  • Complete the 5-day CEH training program
  • Receive course completion certificate

For Freshers & Students

  • Freshers CAN take CEH through official training path
  • CEH Practical available for hands-on validation
  • Academic edition available for students
  • Special pricing for academic institutions

CEH Exam Versions

CEH ANSI

Standard Certification

  • 125 multiple-choice questions
  • 4-hour duration
  • Theoretical knowledge assessment
  • Globally recognized certification
  • Valid for 3 years

CEH Practical

Hands-on Assessment

  • 6-hour practical exam
  • 20 real-world scenarios
  • Hands-on skills validation
  • Prove practical capabilities
  • Standalone certification

CEH Master

Elite Certification

  • Combine CEH + CEH Practical
  • Demonstrate comprehensive skills
  • Highest level of CEH certification
  • Proven theoretical and practical mastery
  • Industry recognition as expert

CEH Salary Potential

Entry Level

$75K

Average starting salary

Mid Career

$105K

With 3-5 years experience

Senior Level

$135K

With 5+ years experience

Top Earners

$180K+

Management positions

Frequently Asked Questions

Can freshers take the CEH exam without experience? +

Yes, freshers can take the CEH exam by attending the official EC-Council training program. The 2-year experience requirement is waived if you complete the authorized training course. This makes CEH accessible to newcomers in cybersecurity.

How difficult is the CEH exam? +

The CEH exam is considered moderately difficult. It requires comprehensive knowledge of hacking tools, techniques, and methodologies. The passing score typically ranges between 60-85% depending on the exam version. Hands-on practice is essential for success.

What is the difference between CEH and CEH Practical? +

CEH (ANSI) tests theoretical knowledge through multiple-choice questions, while CEH Practical is a 6-hour hands-on exam where you demonstrate actual hacking skills in a lab environment. CEH Practical validates your ability to apply knowledge in real-world scenarios.

How to prepare for the CEH exam? +

Recommended preparation includes:

  • Official CEH training course (5 days)
  • CEH study guide and official curriculum
  • Hands-on practice with hacking tools
  • Practice exams and mock tests
  • Join cybersecurity communities and forums
  • Set up a home lab for practical experience

What is the job market for CEH certified professionals? +

CEH certification opens doors to various cybersecurity roles:

  • Ethical Hacker/Penetration Tester
  • Security Analyst
  • Security Consultant
  • Network Security Engineer
  • Cybersecurity Specialist
  • Vulnerability Assessor
The demand for ethical hackers continues to grow rapidly across all industries.

What is the exam retake policy? +

EC-Council's retake policy:

  • First retake: Wait 14 days
  • Subsequent retakes: Wait 14 days each
  • No limit on number of attempts
  • Full exam fee applies for each attempt
  • Retake voucher available at discounted price