Certification maintenance

Cisco Continuing Education Credits by Certification Level

Cisco’s current CE targets increase by certification level, from Practitioner through Associate, Specialist, Professional, and Expert.

Reviewed 19 August 20261 primary/official source linked

Cisco currently lists CE-only recertification targets that increase by certification level: Practitioner 15, Associate 30, Specialist 40, Professional 80, and Expert (CCIE/CCDE) 120 CE credits.

Certification lifetime

Cisco says most certifications are active for three years. CCST entry-level certifications have a different five-year cycle for newer certifications, with special rules for older CCST credentials.

CE is not the only possible path

Cisco also allows qualifying exam-based and advancement pathways. Choose the path that applies to the exact certification and complete it before the certification expiration date.

Do not wait until after expiration

Cisco states that an expired certification requires completing the full exam process again to regain active status, and Cisco does not provide ordinary recertification extensions.

Sources and verification

Source checked August 19, 2026Cisco — Recertification Policy

Cisco recertification and Continuing Education requirements by certification level.

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