A+ Certification Guide

Title: A+ Certification Guide Category: Training Author: Ron "Cage" Griffith Date: December 20, 2000

Introduction

I've been considering picking up my A+ certification and I finally got around to looking for information about what I needed to do. I was surprised by how difficult it was to get basic information about the cost and process, so I decided to whip up a short FAQ that hopefully will help others who are interested in getting their A+ Certification.

First a bit of a warning. You will likely find a number of places on the web and locally that tout their A+ certification programs. Don't be fooled. While these places might offer A+ training and study review, the actual test is only offered and paid through one place - Prometric. If you already havd a good grasp of the topics covered in the A+ exam don't waste $500-$1000 on a A+ course. Just grab a good current A+ book and take the test. The actual test is designed by CompTIA.

Another thing I should point out is that the A+ exam is changing very soon. That's a good thing, since the current exam contains some very dated material. The new exam will become available after January 31, 2001. The new price for the exam goes into effect January 1, 2001.

Ok, on to the good stuff.

Short FAQ

1. The testing registration is done through Prometric - http://www.prometric.com/.
2. You have to set up an account to pre-register. Best to do it now, it takes a day or so to verify your information. You are not required to enter any credit card info, and entering your SS# is optional to pre-register. Web site addy is: http://www.2test.com/index.jsp
3. The phone number for Prometric is: 1-800-776-4276.
4. The test comes in two parts. The cost for both tests now is $256.00. That price will go up with the introduction of the new test on January 1, 2001 to $264.
5. Even though the price goes up, the new testing material does not get implemented until January 31, 2001. It seems to me like you would want to test with the new test.
6. The testing fee is paid directly to Prometric. You do not pay the testing center.
7. There are no additional fees besides the testing fee.
8. New Horizons in Bakersfield told me that they download the new A+ cert. test everyday. You register through Prometric, and then you can take the test the next day if you like.
9. (For those who live in Bakersfield, CA) - New Horizon's web site is: http://www.newhorizons.com/BakersfieldCA/courses.cfm. Phone is:661-397-3606.
10. The cost for the A+ Network certification is another $190.00.