CCSPCertified Cloud Security Professional
The premier cloud security credential from ISC2
Details last reviewed October 2026. Fees and exam formats change — always confirm on the official page.
About this certification
The CCSP is a senior-level cloud security certification from ISC2 covering architecture, design, operations, and compliance of cloud environments. It demonstrates deep expertise in securing multi-cloud infrastructure and is widely recognized alongside CISSP as a senior security credential. Requires 5 years of IT experience with 3 years in cloud security.
MyCertPath verdict
The (ISC)² certification for cloud security — required-or-preferred reading for security architects working in AWS, Azure, or GCP environments. CCSP holders typically have or are pursuing CISSP; the two pair naturally. Recognized globally and particularly strong in regulated and government contexts.
What it actually tests
125 questions in three hours across six domains. Vendor-neutral but expects working familiarity with cloud architecture across the major providers. Heavy on data security, legal and compliance, and risk — lighter on hands-on cloud configuration.
Common traps
Things candidates underestimate or get wrong on this exam.
- Approaching it as a hands-on cloud exam. CCSP is policy- and architecture-focused, not configuration-focused.
- Not budgeting study time for the legal and compliance domains.
- Assuming CISSP prep covers CCSP. The overlap is meaningful but partial — the cloud-specific material needs its own pass.
What you'll validate
- ✓Cloud concepts, architecture and design
- ✓Cloud data security
- ✓Cloud platform and infrastructure security
- ✓Cloud application security
- ✓Cloud security operations
- ✓Legal, risk, and compliance
- ✓Encryption and key management in cloud
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Gold-standard cloud security credential
- +Recognized alongside CISSP globally
- +Covers all major cloud providers
- +Significant salary premium in cloud security roles
Disadvantages
- −Steep experience requirements (5 years)
- −Expensive exam and ongoing maintenance fees
- −Broad scope requires substantial study time
Who it's for
Best for
- →Senior security professionals moving into cloud
- →Cloud architects adding security depth
- →Security managers overseeing cloud environments
Not ideal for
- ×Entry/mid-level practitioners without 5 years experience
- ×Those seeking a purely hands-on/technical credential
Career paths this unlocks
CCSP: quick answers
- How much does the CCSP exam cost?
- The listed exam fee is $599 (USD). Price may vary by region; ISC2 membership required for maintenance Fees vary by region and change over time — confirm on the official page before you buy.
- How long does it take to prepare for CCSP?
- We estimate roughly 130 hours of study for most candidates; your time depends on prior experience.
- How long is the CCSP exam?
- The exam is 180 minutes with about 150 questions.
- How long is the CCSP credential valid?
- 3 years. 90 CPE credits required every 3 years; annual maintenance fee
Study Resources
Contains affiliate linksTop picks for CCSP
Register for the exam
Official registration only — no third-party resellers. (ISC)² offers candidate discounts for members.
More places to study
Self-paced video courses from independent instructors
Courses and certificates from universities and companies
Practice tests and hands-on labs for IT certifications
Printed and Kindle exam guides
Subscription video courses
Links marked “Affiliate” may earn MyCertPath a commission if you buy, at no extra cost to you. Other links are unpaid. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. Prices and ratings change often, so we don't list them — check the provider's page. Disclosure
Jobs for CCSP holders
Pay depends on role, location, and experience more than on any single credential. Check current postings below for real ranges in your market.
LinkedIn Jobs
Posted in the last 7 days
Indeed
Dice (tech roles)
Tech-focused job board
CyberSeek (cyber only)
NIST-backed supply/demand tool
Job links open external sites. Search results are live and not curated by MyCertPath.
Quick Facts
- Exam Cost
- $599 (Price may vary by region; ISC2 membership required for maintenance)
- Exam Duration
- 180 minutes
- Questions
- ~150
- Passing Score
- 700 out of 1000 (scaled)
- Exam Format
- Multiple Choice
- Study Time
- ~130 hours
- Validity
- 3 years
- Salary Impact
- Strong (editorial rating)
- Last Reviewed
- October 2026
Prerequisites
- !5 years of paid IT experience, including 3 years in information security
- !1 year in one or more of the 6 CCSP domains (or CCSK as substitute)
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