This guide is designed to help you understand how your exam attempts, retakes, and certification work from the moment you purchase your exam to the day you certify. This policy applies to all CCDL1/CCDL2 candidates, whether you purchased the Exam-Only option or the Course + Exam Bundle.
Exam Attempts
Each exam purchase comes with two included exam attempts to give you flexibility and confidence.
Here’s how it works:
First Attempt: Valid for 3 months from the date of purchase.
Second Attempt: Valid for 4 months from the date of purchase, in other words, 1 month after the expiration of the first attempt.
Note: You must start your exam before the expiration date shown on your dashboard. Once started, you’ll have the full exam duration to complete it, even if the expiration date passes.
This structure gives you time to prepare, reinforce your knowledge, and try again with stronger preparation.
Retake Policy
After an unsuccessful attempt, you can retake the exam after a 14-day cool-off period.
Once you pass, no further attempts are allowed, even if unused attempts remain.
After using both included attempts, you can purchase a third and final attempt through the Certification Store.
Note: If you don’t pass the third attempt, you’ll need to re-enroll before taking the exam again.
Pass Criteria
Achieve the required passing score as outlined in the Exam Outline guide.
Upon passing, you receive an official certificate and a Credly digital badge.
Your certification is valid for 4 years from the date you pass. Review the CyberDefenders Certification Guide for more details.
Summary Table
Item | Limit | Notes |
Exam Attempts (default) | 2 | 1st: 3 months / 2nd: 4 months from purchase |
Cool-off After a Failed Attempt | 14 days | Mandatory |
Validity After Pass | 4 years |