Free, source-traceable preparation. Read the guide here; leave only for official documents and actions.Reviewed November 10, 2026

EXAM PROCESS

CompTIA A+: from plan to exam

This page separates durable study guidance from details that can change. Use the workflow here, but verify live administrative facts with CompTIA before acting.

01

Confirm the series

Use only resources labeled 220-1201 or 220-1202. Older 1100-series material can leave coverage gaps.

Safe next action: Check the linked authority page whenever this step affects eligibility, scheduling, identity, fees, or professional status.
02

Download both objective PDFs

Turn each bullet into a checklist item and label it learn, practice, or verify.

Safe next action: Check the linked authority page whenever this step affects eligibility, scheduling, identity, fees, or professional status.
03

Build a safe lab

Use a spare machine or virtual machines for operating-system, command-line and troubleshooting practice.

Safe next action: Check the linked authority page whenever this step affects eligibility, scheduling, identity, fees, or professional status.
04

Schedule by readiness

CompTIA A+ requires both current-series exams; sequence them based on your stronger domain, not on a promised calendar.

Safe next action: Check the linked authority page whenever this step affects eligibility, scheduling, identity, fees, or professional status.

What should always be rechecked

Eligibility

Education, experience, age, jurisdiction, application and authorization rules.

Scheduling

Testing windows, vendors, locations, remote delivery, deadlines and rescheduling.

Money and identity

Fees, refunds, acceptable identification and accommodation procedures.

Version

Exam code, effective date, tax or law cutoff, test plan and retired materials.

Official action links

Use these sources for the original instructions and latest notices. Credential Atlas intentionally does not imitate an application or scheduling flow.

NEXT GUIDE

Build a realistic preparation sequence

Turn the official outline into focused phases and evidence-based readiness checks.

Continue to study plan →