OSCP
Offensive Security Certified Professional
Certification Overview
Highly respected hands-on penetration testing certification. The grueling 24-hour exam requires exploiting live machines and writing a professional report. Includes PEN-200 course with 90 days lab access. Requires 70/100 points to pass.
The Offensive Security Certified Professional (OSCP) is a globally recognized benchmark designed for professionals aiming to prove their expertise in security. In today's competitive landscape, this certification acts as a critical signal to employers regarding your technical proficiency and commitment to the field.
Primary Impact
- Higher salary ceiling in Security roles
- Validated expertise at the enterprise level
Market Signal
Ranked as a Top Security Credential for 2026, holding the OSCP significantly reduces the time-to-hire for senior positions.
Market Outlook
We monitor job market volume in real-time to provide the most accurate demand forecasting for your career.
Market Sentiment
There are currently 45 open roles in the US requiring this specific certification.
Tracking period: 13 weeks
Job data provided by Adzuna
Market Insights
With 45 active US job postings, OSCP ranks #120 of 155 certifications we track by current hiring demand, and #36 of 42 in Security. Postings are down 93% over the past 13 weeks.
Is OSCP right for you?
Don't make a blind decision. Compare OSCP against similar certifications to find the best ROI for your specific career path.
OSCP vs CEH
See a side-by-side breakdown of salary potential, exam difficulty, and hiring volume for both credentials.
Want more insights?
Use our full analytics suite to calculate your personal ROI, effort-to-value ratio, and 5-year career projections.
Maintenance & Recognition
Renewal Requirements
Industry Recognition
Proctoring Options
Path to Excellence
Everything you need to successfully navigate the OSCP certification journey.
01Entry Requirements
Pentesting Interest
Strong knowledge of TCP/IP, Linux, and bash scripting.
02The Process
PEN-200 Training
Complete the OffSec Penetration Testing with Kali Linux course.
Lab Practice
Exploit at least 50+ lab machines to build hands-on muscle memory.
24-Hour Exam
Pass the grueling 24-hour hands-on hacking exam.
OSCP Complete Study Guide
Strategic study plan, exam breakdown, and career acceleration tactics — everything you need to pass.
OSCP Certification: Frequently Asked Questions
What is the OSCP certification?+
Highly respected hands-on penetration testing certification. The grueling 24-hour exam requires exploiting live machines and writing a professional report. Includes PEN-200 course with 90 days lab access. Requires 70/100 points to pass.
What are the requirements for OSCP certification in 2026?+
To earn the OSCP certification, candidates typically need: Strong knowledge of TCP/IP, Linux, and bash scripting. Candidates must also pass the official certification exam and adhere to a professional code of ethics.
How much does the OSCP certification exam cost in 2026?+
The OSCP certification exam costs $1,749. This includes the official proctored examination fee. Renewal costs approximately Renewal or Qualifying Cert.
What is the OSCP certification salary in 2026?+
Professionals holding the OSCP certification typically earn a starting salary of $125,000 or more per year. Salaries vary based on experience, location, and specific job role, with senior positions commanding significantly higher compensation.
How many jobs require OSCP certification?+
As of 2026, there are 45 active job postings requiring or preferring OSCP certification. The job market for this certification is currently stable.
What is the OSCP exam pass rate?+
The OSCP certification exam has an estimated pass rate of N/A. Most successful candidates study for 200-400 hours before attempting the exam.
How long does it take to prepare for OSCP certification?+
Most candidates need 200-400 hours of study time to prepare for the OSCP certification exam. The exam itself is 24 hours long.
What is the OSCP exam format?+
The OSCP exam is 24 hours exam with Hands-on Exploitation questions. A passing score of 70/100 points is required. Remote proctoring is available.
How do I renew my OSCP certification?+
The OSCP certification must be renewed every 3 years (OSCP+). You need to earn 120 CPEs over 3 years to maintain your certification. Renewal costs approximately Renewal or Qualifying Cert.
Ready to Get Certified?
Start your OSCP certification journey today and open doors to new opportunities in security.