How to Get CEH Certification?

The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is one of the most recognized credentials in the cybersecurity industry. Whether you're an IT professional looking to upskill or a beginner aspiring to enter cybersecurity, earning the CEH designation can open doors to lucrative opportunities.

In this article, we have provided a step-by-step roadmap on how to get CEH certification. Know the requirements and study tips for the Certified Ethical Hacker certification. We have also mentioned the options to get CEH certification for free or at a lower cost. 

Furthermore, if you are a cybersecurity enthusiast and looking to build a career in cybersecurity, check out our Cybersecurity Training courses that prepare you with job-ready skills.

What is a CEH Certification? 

The CEH certification, offered by EC-Council, validates your skills in identifying and mitigating security vulnerabilities using the same tools and techniques employed by malicious hackers.

It positions you as a trusted professional who can ethically protect organizations from cyber threats.

Online CEH Certification TrainingJoin the course to prepare for Certified Ethical Hacker certification.Explore course

What are the prerequisites for the CEH Exam? 

If you are trying to take the CEH certification exam, keep these things in mind:

While a degree in IT or cybersecurity is preferred, it is not mandatory. You should complete an official EC-Council-approved training course or have at least two years of professional experience in information security to be eligible for the certification exam.

Candidates qualifying through work experience need to submit an application along with a non-refundable fee for EC-Council review.

Those under 18 are not allowed to take the exam or attend official training unless they provide written consent from a parent or guardian, along with a letter of support from a nationally accredited higher education institution.

How much will the CEH Certification Cost? 

The total cost of obtaining the CEH certification depends on the candidate’s experience and preparation path. Here’s a breakdown: 

Application Fee: A non-refundable $100 application fee applies to all candidates.

Exam Voucher: After approval, candidates can purchase an exam voucher. The price of a voucher from EC-Council is $1,199, though prices may vary with authorized training partners. 

Training Courses: 

● The EC-Council’s base online instructor-led training package costs $2,199 and includes one year of access to course materials, iLabs, and the exam voucher. 

● The live training option is priced at $3,499. Availability may vary based on current conditions, such as during the pandemic. 

● Independent study resources may be purchased to complement official training. 

Why Should You Become a Certified Ethical Hacker?

Ethical hackers are in high demand as cybersecurity continues to grow. These professionals play a crucial role in protecting systems from cyberattacks.

Certified ethical hackers enjoy lucrative career opportunities, with salaries often ranging between $80,000 and $120,000 annually. Additionally, the CEH credential boosts your professional credibility, making you a preferred candidate for various cybersecurity roles.

How to Get Certified Ethical Hacker Certification?

Now, let's dive into how to become a certified ethical hacker step by step. 

Step 1: Understand CEH Certification Requirements 

Before pursuing CEH certification, it’s important to know the prerequisites: 

● Knowledge of Networking: A foundational understanding of networking concepts like IP addressing, protocols, and firewalls is essential. 

● Two Years of Work Experience: EC-Council recommends having two years of work experience in cybersecurity or IT. 

● CEH Training or Application: You must complete an EC-Council-approved training program or apply through the eligibility process, which involves documenting your work experience. 

If you lack formal work experience, you can still qualify for CEH certification by taking the EC-Council’s official training program. 

Step 2: Choose the Best CEH Training Program

There are several options for preparing for the CEH exam. EC-Council Accredited Training Centers (ATCs) provide comprehensive training through live classes, self-paced modules, or virtual learning.

Online platforms, such as Uninets, offer CEH preparation courses at a fraction of the cost. Alternatively, you can opt for self-study using the CEH exam blueprint, official study guides, and practice labs.

Step 3: Learn Key CEH Domains

The CEH exam covers key domains including ethical hacking basics, footprinting and reconnaissance, and scanning networks. It also includes enumeration, system hacking, and trojans and malware. Social engineering, web application hacking, and wireless network hacking are also part of the exam. Finally, cryptography is covered as well.

Step 4: Register for the CEH Exam 

Once you’re prepared, the next step is to register for the CEH certification exam. Here’s how: 

1. Purchase the Exam Voucher: Buy a voucher directly from EC-Council or an authorized training partner. 

2. Eligibility Application (if required): If you skipped formal training, submit the CEH Eligibility Form with proof of work experience and a $100 application fee. 

3. Schedule the Exam: Book your exam slot through the Pearson VUE platform. 

Step 5: Take the CEH Exam 

Now you can appear in the CEH certification exam. CEH exam details are given in the table below:

You can use practice tests to familiarize yourself with the format and time management. 

Bonus Step: Maintain Your CEH Certification 

The CEH certification requires renewal every three years. To maintain the credential, candidates must earn 120 Continuing Professional Education (CPE) credits during this period. Credits can be obtained through activities such as: 

● Attending cybersecurity conferences 

● Writing research papers 

● Teaching relevant courses 

● Reading materials or attending webinars related to ethical hacking 

How to Get CEH Certification for Free or at a Lower Cost 

Becoming a certified ethical hacker can be expensive, but there are ways to save money for CEH certification: 

● EC-Council and other organizations offer scholarships for cybersecurity professionals. 

● Many employers reimburse certification costs for employees. 

● Some institutions offer CEH training at a reduced price or through government-sponsored programs. 

● Platforms like Cybrary, Hack The Box, and TryHackMe offer free or affordable hands-on labs for ethical hacking. 

Tips to Pass the CEH Certification Exam 

1. Dedicate time daily to studying CEH topics. 

2. Use tools like Metasploit, Nmap, and Wireshark to gain practical experience. 

3. Engage with forums like Reddit, GitHub, or LinkedIn groups for tips and resources. 

4. Regularly practice with mock tests to build confidence.