Starting March 8th, we're renaming CCD to CCDL2. The rename is part of a bigger set of changes we're making to the certification, and this article walks through each one so you know exactly what to expect.
What's Changing on March 8th
The name is changing from CCD to CCDL2
With the launch of CCDL1 as our associate-level certification, we're renaming CCD to CCDL2 to create a clear path between the two. CCDL1 is built for people earlier in their careers, CCDL2 is the advanced certification for experienced analysts.
The rename helps make it obvious where each certification sits and who it's built for. CCDL2 is still the same rigorous credential. The level is there to clarify where it fits in the pathway.
New pricing and exam-only option
The course + exam bundle moves from $800 to $1,199. We're also introducing an exam-only option at $849 for people who feel ready to test without studying the course material. The current pricing is available until March 8th.
With CCDL2 now positioned as the advanced certification, the pricing reflects that repositioning, along with what it costs to build and maintain the infrastructure behind it: proctoring, multi-region servers, and ongoing content updates.
If you were already planning to enroll, purchasing before March 8th locks in the current price.
Badge validity will be 4 years for new enrollments
For new enrollments after Mar 8th, CCDL2 badges will be valid for 4 years.
Cybersecurity moves quickly, and we want the credential to keep signaling current, job-relevant skills. This helps make sure the certification stays meaningful as the field evolves. This is consistent with how many established certifying bodies handle it.
The important detail: yes, this adds a renewal requirement, but it does not add a renewal fee. Renewal is done through CPE credits from any relevant training, conferences, or work you're already doing, or by retaking the exam if you choose to. You don't need to repurchase anything from us. Full details on accepted CPE activities will be announced before any badges reach expiration.
Coming Soon: Proctored Exam
In the coming months, CCDL2 will move to a proctored exam. We're not locking down the exact setup in this announcement because implementation details are still in progress, and community feedback is actively shaping what the final experience looks like.
As the community has grown and the credential has become more visible, cheating becomes a bigger threat to everyone who earned it legitimately. Proctoring is one of the most direct ways to protect the value of the certification for those who earned it legitimately.
If proctoring makes you uneasy, you're not alone. The "how" is still being worked through with care, and we'll share specifics as decisions are finalized.
If you already have CCD, or you enrolled before March 8th
If you already earned CCD, your certification remains lifetime. No expiry, no new requirements, nothing you need to do. The one visible change is naming: your Credly badge will automatically update from CCD to CCDL2.
If you enrolled before March 8th but haven't passed yet, you're locked into the original terms. You keep lifetime validity no matter when you pass, and any pending resits are honored.
Frequently Asked Questions
I already have a CCD. Does this change my certification?
No. Your lifetime badge remains valid. The only change is that your Credly badge will update from CCD to CCDL2 to reflect the new name.
Why put a limit on the badge validity period?
Cybersecurity evolves fast. The 4-year validity ensures CCDL2 holders reflect current, up-to-date skills. This is standard across the industry for the same reason.
Is there a renewal fee?
No. There is no fee to renew or maintain your badge.
How does the renewal process work?
You can renew by retaking the exam or by earning CPE credits from any relevant training, conferences, or work you're already doing. You don't need to repurchase anything from us. Full details on accepted CPE activities will be announced before any badges reach expiration.
I purchased before March 8th. Does the 4-year badge validity apply to me?
No. If you purchased CCD before March 8th, your badge has lifetime validity, regardless of when you complete the exam. This includes pending resits. The 4-year validity only applies to new enrollments after March 8th.
Why change the name of the certification?
We kept hearing the same question: "Where do I start?" Without levels, it wasn't clear which certification was right for which experience level. CCDL1 covers the associate level, CCDL2 is the next step.
Can I keep my CCD badge instead of CCDL2?
Unfortunately, no. Maintaining two separate badge names for the same certification isn't feasible. CCDL2 represents the same rigorous credential you earned. The "Level 2" indicates where it sits in the pathway, not a ceiling on your skills or experience.
Why introduce proctoring?
As the certification has grown, cheating has become a real concern. Proctoring protects the value of every legitimate holder's badge. We're designing the process with community feedback in mind to maintain integrity without being unnecessarily invasive.