Pursuing a career in advanced network security often begins with earning one of the most respected credentials in the industry. Among the top-tier certifications available today, CCIE Security has consistently remained a preferred choice for professionals seeking to validate their expertise and stand out in a competitive market. Whether you’re planning long-term career growth or aiming to strengthen your hands-on skills, understanding the exam structure—including costs, registration steps, and retake rules—is essential before beginning your preparation.

The journey toward achieving CCIE Security requires careful planning, financial clarity, and an awareness of how Cisco’s testing policies work. As organizations continue to demand experts capable of defending large-scale infrastructure, the value of this certification continues to rise.

1. Breakdown of CCIE Security Exam Costs

Cisco’s CCIE Security certification consists of two components:

• The core written exam (350-701 SCOR)
  
  

• The 8-hour hands-on lab exam
  
  

Below is the standard cost breakdown:

● SCOR Written Exam: $400 USD

This written assessment evaluates your knowledge of core security technologies including network access, VPNs, secure network design, content security, and threat defense.

● CCIE Security Lab Exam: $1,600 USD

The lab is significantly more expensive because it includes hands-on simulations, advanced equipment, and complex real-world scenarios. It evaluates candidates on network configuration, troubleshooting, and implementation skills.

● Additional Expenses to Consider

Although these two fees represent the official exam charges, candidates should also factor in supplemental costs such as:

• Training material and course fees
  
  

• Equipment or virtual lab rentals
  
  

• Travel and accommodation for lab exam locations
  
  

• Retake attempts if required
  
  

The complete investment can vary widely based on training choices, learning pace, and location.

2. How to Register for the CCIE Security Written Exam

Cisco’s written exam registration is handled through Pearson VUE, the official exam partner. The process is simple and can be completed online by following these steps:

Step 1: Create or Log in to Your Cisco Account

Your Cisco profile ensures your certification records are properly aligned.

Step 2: Select the SCOR Exam (350-701)

Once logged in, choose the exam code and select an available test center or online proctored mode.

Step 3: Choose Your Exam Date and Time

Pick a schedule that allows you to prepare sufficiently without unnecessary delays.

Step 4: Complete the Payment Process

After reviewing your information, you can pay the exam fee using a credit card or other accepted method.

Passing the SCOR exam qualifies you to move forward to the lab exam.

3. How to Register for the CCIE Security Lab Exam

Registration for the lab exam is done directly through Cisco. Seats for lab exams often fill quickly, so early booking is recommended.

Steps to Register for the Lab Exam:

● Step 1: Ensure Your SCOR Exam Is Passed and Valid

You cannot book the lab without a valid written exam result.

● Step 2: Log into Cisco’s CCIE Lab Scheduling Tool

This portal allows you to browse available lab centers worldwide.

● Step 3: Select a Suitable Lab Location and Date

Cisco operates lab centers in locations such as Bangalore, Tokyo, Brussels, Dubai, and several US cities.

● Step 4: Make the Payment

Upon scheduling the exam, you will be prompted to finalize your booking by paying the exam fee.

Once confirmed, you will receive a lab exam appointment email with detailed guidelines.

4. CCIE Security Exam Retake Policies

Cisco has strict policies governing exam retakes to ensure fairness and maintain the integrity of the certification.

Retake Policy for the Written Exam (SCOR)

• You must wait 5 calendar days before retaking the exam.
  
  

• There is no limit to how many times you can reattempt, but each attempt requires paying the full exam fee.
  
  

Retake Policy for the CCIE Security Lab Exam

Cisco’s lab retake policy is structured around a waiting period system:

• 1st failed attempt: You may retake the lab after 30 days.
  
  

• 2nd failed attempt: Another 30-day wait is required.
  
  

• 3rd and subsequent failed attempts: A mandatory 90-day waiting period applies.
  
  

There is no lifetime limit on the number of attempts, but each attempt requires a new payment. Because the lab exam is costly, candidates often invest in additional training, mock labs, and rack practice between attempts to increase their chances of success.

5. Preparing Financially and Strategically for the Certification Journey

Earning CCIE Security requires strategic planning—both academically and financially. The multi-stage exam structure, cost-intensive lab testing, and high expectations create a rigorous path. That’s why many professionals adopt a structured preparation routine involving instructor-led programs, practice labs, peer study groups, and curated learning paths.

Investing in preparation tools not only increases your chances of clearing the exam on the first attempt but also minimizes the cost of retakes.

Conclusion

Understanding the full scope of CCIE Security exam costs, registration procedures, and retake rules enables candidates to make informed decisions and build a clear certification roadmap. Given the complexity and expectations of the certification journey, many professionals complement their study plan with CCIE Security Training, ensuring they are fully prepared to succeed and maximize the return on their investment.