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Training and Certification Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
General FAQs
Q: Why are you changing the Cisco certification portfolio?
A: This initiative is built on technology transition that Cisco has driven in the networking industry.
“Unleashing the full capabilities of the new network” means that there are entirely new
capabilities in the network, and this fundamentally changes “how networking is done”. To fully
leverage the capabilities of the new network, networking and software skills are key.
The new Cisco Certification program introduces CCNA, CCNP, and CCIE certifications that
maintain the high-quality standards known to the industry yet have been streamlined based on
market demands and learner preferences. The program is designed for agility, value, and
leadership. It lets people choose the skills they want to develop and encourages lifelong
learning.
New DevNet Associate and DevNet Professional Certifications provide software skills for network
engineers and software developers who work with Cisco technologies.
This allows us to combine the strengths of our Cisco certified community, Networking Academy
community, and DevNet community, and build the workforce for the next generation of
businesses built on Cisco technologies.
Q: What is changing exactly?
A: We’re enhancing the certification program to bring you:
• Streamlined and updated certification paths, such as
o Consolidated and updated associate level training and certification for networking
engineers - one course, one exam covers the fundamental topics for all network
technologies.
o Specialist certifications validate your skills in line with your job role and interests.
o Your choice of concentration exams at the professional level that allows you to tailor
your certification to your preferences.
o CCIE achievement validates core knowledge on end-to-end practical skills through
the entire network lifecycle of designing, deploying, operating and optimizing
complex network scenarios.
• New DevNet certifications at the associate, specialist and professional levels, to validate
your software development skills.
• The ability to start where you want - no prerequisites to start earning your associate,
specialist, professional or expert level certification.
• Continuing education credits for recertification and ongoing development are available
for CCNA, Cisco Certified Specialist, CCNP and CCIE.
• New Emeritus lifetime tenure for CCIE certifications maintained continuously for 20 years.
• Badging for completing training courses.
• No more continuing education administrative fee, as of February 24, 2020.
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Q: What’s staying the same?
A: The best features of our program have not changed. We will still be offering:
• Multiple levels of certification, at associate (CCNA), specialist, professional (CCNP) and
expert (CCIE) levels.
• Learning on your schedule, in your preferred way – online or in-person.
• Core technology concentrations at professional and expert levels, in Enterprise, Security,
Service Provider, Collaboration, Data Center and more.
• Recertification exams available at all levels.
Q: What is the anticipated launch date of the new training and certification portfolio?
A: The new training and certification portfolio will be announced on June 10, 2019. New and
updated training courses will be rolled out over time beginning in June 2019, representing a
breadth and depth of critical skills in key technology areas. New certification exams, including
those for CCNA, CCNP, CCIE, Cisco Certified DevNet Associate, Cisco Certified DevNet
Professional and Specialist certifications will be available February 24, 2020. Continuing
education will be available for CCNA, Cisco Certified Specialist and CCNP beginning February
24, 2020. You’ll be able to start earning training badges for courses completed after February
24, 2020.
Q: When will exam topics for the new certification portfolio be available?
A: Final exam topics will be available for all new exams, beginning June 10, 2019.
Q: What certifications will be removed and what certifications will be added?
A: Certification technology tracks for CCNP and CCIE are being consolidated to Enterprise,
Security, Service Provider, Collaboration and Data Center, which now include relevant topics
from retired programs. You will see the topics from retired certifications reflected in new
concentration exams. New DevNet certifications will include Cisco Certified DevNet Associate,
Cisco Certified DevNet Specialist and Cisco Certified DevNet Professional.
Q: How do I qualify for a training badge or a certification in the new portfolio structure?
A:
For:
You get:
Successfully completing training
Training badge
Passing the CCNA exam
Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA)
Passing the Cisco Certified DevNet
Associate exam
Cisco Certified DevNet Associate
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Passing any written, proctored exam, with
exception of the CCNA exam
Cisco Certified Specialist
Passing any DevNet written, proctored
exam, with exception of the Cisco Certified
DevNet Associate exam
Cisco Certified DevNet Specialist
Passing one core exam and one
concentration exam in the same technology
Cisco Certified Network Professional
(CCNP)
Passing one DevNet core and one DevNet
concentration exam
Cisco Certified DevNet Professional
Passing one core exam and the
corresponding lab in the same technology
Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)
Q: With fewer technology tracks, how can I get certified in a technology that relates to my work?
A: We designed the new training and certification program to be customizable. For example,
CCNP includes more options than ever before, with a concentration exam of your choice. And
you can earn training badges for completing training and Specialist certifications for passing
written, proctored exams in technologies and skills that relate directly to your job, interests, and
aspirations.
Q: How will the portfolio updates change the number of exams a user will take for certifications?
A: It will depend on each learner’s path. Our goal is to make it more convenient for learners to
become certified and enable them to customize learning to best meet their needs. At the
associate level, users will take a single, comprehensive exam. At the professional level, users will
need to take a core exam and their choice of concentration exam in the same technology track.
At the expert level, users will need to take a core exam the corresponding lab exam. Specialist
certifications will be awarded for passing any written, proctored exam, with the exception of
associate level exams.
Q: What will happen to the CCDE and CCAr curriculum and certification?
A: At this time, the CCDE and CCAr certifications will remain as they are today.
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Q: How is Cisco protecting the integrity and rigor of the certifications under the new structure?
A: As we enhance our program, our intent is to maintain and strengthen the integrity and rigor
that Cisco certifications have today. At the CCNA level, we’ve broadened the topics within the
exam to cover the range of skills required to manage digital networks. We’ve also embedded
knowledge from across technologies into our associate level exam, making it more
comprehensive than ever. At the CCNP and CCIE levels, we’ve increased the rigor of exams.
The new core exams will cover essential knowledge for job roles within the network domain. And
by offering concentration exams that cover depth of knowledge in specific topics, we’re
validating your specific skills even more rigorously than in the past. Finally, CCIE exams will cover
the entire network lifecycle of designing, deploying, operating and optimizing complex network
scenarios.
Q: Why were certain certifications removed from the portfolio? Does that mean my certification is
no longer valid anymore? (examples CCNA Wireless, CCNA Security)
A: We’ve consolidated the CCNA program into one, comprehensive exam that covers entry level
networking skills across technologies, such as basic IP fundamentals, network access, IP
connectivity, and basics of automation and network programmability, and security fundamental
skills, because a breadth of skills is needed when first entering networking. We’ve refocused our
CCNP and CCIE program to align with the five principal technologies, including Enterprise,
Security, Service Provider, Collaboration and Data Center. Retired programs have been
consolidated into these technology tracks.
For example, we’ve consolidated Wireless into the Enterprise track, as wireless skills are critical
in any enterprise deployment. Where subject matter fit into more than one potential track, as was
the case with Automation and Programming, the subject matter became a concentration exam in
multiple CCNP technology tracks. Where this is the case, the same content will be leveraged
across tracks. Your current certification is still valid and will be active until it’s expiration date.
Q: How is Cisco working to protect the value of the certification that I currently hold today?
A: Cisco certifications are among the most valued in the industry. All our certification exams are
designed and monitored by experts. They’re developed using a standardized, industry-accepted
methodology, which generates valid, credible, valuable, and legally- defensible certifications.
We are also constantly validating the integrity of the exams through test site monitoring,
enforcement of candidate requirements, exam security practices, data analytics and
investigations tied to the security tip line.
Q: How does this change impact Cisco Networking Academy?
A: We are expanding the Networking Academy to train students for the new CCNA certification
and for the new DevNet Associate certification, which extends the program beyond developing
networking professionals to also include developing software professionals for Cisco’s partners
and customers.
Q: I have a question about my NetAcad course. Who should I reach out to?
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A: Cisco Networking Academy is happy to answer your question. Simply post your question to
their Facebook page, and they’ll respond: https://www.facebook.com/cisconetworkingacademy/
Q: What will happen to my existing certification when the new program goes into effect February
24, 2020?
A: For CCNA, Specialist and CCNP: Your current certification is still valid and will be active until
its expiration date. When the new program goes into effect February 24, 2020, your current
certification will be transitioned to an equivalent in the new program.
For CCIE: If you are an active CCIE, your suspended year will be converted to an active year. For
example, if your active CCIE would have been suspended beginning April 21, 2020, you will
sustain active status until April 21, 2021.
CCNA
Q: How is the new CCNA different from the previous CCNAs that Cisco offered?
A: We’ve consolidated and updated CCNA training and certification into one course, one comprehensive
exam that covers entry-level networking skills across technologies, such as basic IP fundamentals,
network access, IP connectivity, and basics of automation and network programmability, and security
fundamental skills.
Q: Will the CCNA certification still be required as a prerequisite for professional certifications?
A: The CCNA certification will no longer be required as a prerequisite for professional certifications,
giving learners the ability to start where they choose in their learning journey.
Q: What is happening with the CCNA CyberOps certification?
A: At this time, there are no changes to the CCNA CyberOps certification. Cisco continues to evaluate
our training and certifications, including CCNA CyberOps, to ensure we are providing professionals with
the most up-to-date skills needed to succeed in today's marketplace. Cybersecurity skills are critical and
will continue to be an important area for Cisco. Please look for future updates at Cisco.com/nextlevel
CCNP
Q: What is a technology core exam?
A: A technology core exam is one of the two exams required for CCNP, CCIE, and Cisco Certified
DevNet Professional certifications. For CCNP and CCIE, there are five technology core exams available,
focused on Enterprise, Security, Service Provider, Collaboration and Data Center. Technology core
exams cover the foundational and common concepts that are required for a candidate to be proficient in
a technology architecture. For Cisco Certified DevNet Professional, there is one DevNet core exam.
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Q: What is a concentration exam?
A: A concentration exam is one of the two exams required for professional-level certification (CCNP).
Concentration exams take a deeper dive into a relevant and related technology to the core, allowing the
candidate to choose a topic that is either of interest or related to his or her chosen technology area of
focus. For CCNP, there are concentration exams for all five technology tracks, Enterprise, Security,
Service Provider, Collaboration and Data Center. There are also multiple concentration exams available
for Cisco Certified DevNet Professional.
Q: What are the options for concentration exams?
A: Options for concentration exams can be found at the corresponding CCNP pages, listed below:
• CCNP Enterprise
• CCNP Security
• CCNP Service Provider
• CCNP Collaboration
• CCNP Data Center
• Cisco Certified DevNet Professional
Q: Am I required to pass the technology core exam before I can take a concentration exam within the
same track?
A: No, you may take the exams in any order you choose.
Q: I passed my technology core exam. How long is it valid for and how much time do I have to pass the
concentration exam or lab exam?
A: Beginning February 24, 2020, when you pass the technology core exam in a given technology track,
you have three years from that pass date to pass a concentration or lab exam within that same
technology track to complete your professional or expert-level certification.
Q: I passed my technology core exam. Can I take and pass a concentration exam AND a lab exam to
achieve my professional and expert-level certifications?
A: Yes, beginning February 24, 2020, you can take and pass both a concentration exam and a lab exam
within three years of passing the core exam to achieve your professional and expert-level certifications.
CCIE
Q: Is the technology core exam the same for both CCNP and CCIE exams?
A: Yes, the same written exam will serve as the core exam for CCNP certification and CCIE certification.
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Q: What are the options for CCIE lab exams in the new portfolio structure?
A: Learners will be able to choose between wireless and infrastructure lab exams within the Enterprise
track. All other CCIE lab exams will be standardized to the technology track, including Security, Service
Provider, Collaboration and Data Center.
Q: Am I required to pass the technology core exam before I can take a lab exam within the same track?
A: Yes, you are required to pass the technology core exam before you take the lab exam.
Q: Why is the CCIE lab exam format changing?
A: The CCIE lab exam is being updated in order to assess candidates’ skills through the entire adoption
lifecycle of designing, deploying, operating and optimizing complex network scenarios. The lab format will
change to assess these skills end-to-end.
Q: How is the CCIE lab exam format changing?
A: The CCIE lab format is changing to assess candidates’ skills through the entire adoption lifecycle of
designing, deploying, operating and optimizing complex network scenarios. The lab exam will consist of
2 modules that are fixed in time and will be delivered in a fixed sequence:
• Module 1: Design (3 hours)
• Module 2: Deploy, Operate and Optimize (5 hours)
Automation and Network Programmability skills are an integral part of both modules.
Q: What are the details of the CCIE Lifetime Emeritus benefit?
A: A CCIE or CCIE Emeritus that maintains their active or Emeritus status for 20 years will have the
option to choose a lifetime Emeritus status with no fee. For more information on the CCIE Lifetime
Emeritus Benefit, please visit https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/training-events/training-
certifications/certifications/expert/ccie-program/emeritus.html.
Q: If I’m an active CCIE today, when will my current certification expire?
A: If you are an active CCIE, your suspended year will be converted to an active year. For example, if
your active CCIE would have been suspended beginning April 21, 2020, you will sustain active status
until April 21, 2021.
Q: I have an active CCNP or I have passed exams that will be made equivalent to a technology core
exam after migration. Will I be able to take the CCIE lab without taking any additional written exams?
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A: Yes. If you currently have an active CCNP, you will have three years from the date you obtained that
CCNP or the date you last recertified (whichever is more recent) to take the CCIE lab within that same
technology track. If you have obtained the equivalent of a technology core in a specific track, you will
have three years from the date you last passed a technology core equivalent exam to take the CCIE lab
in that same track. After the three years has lapsed, you must pass the technology core exam again in a
given track to be able to take the CCIE lab in that track. CCIE lab exams for current CCNPs or those with
technology core equivalency can begin to be scheduled on February 24, 2020.
For example, an individual with an active CCNP Routing & Switching certification who last recertified their
CCNP on September 23, 2019 will be able to take the CCIE Enterprise lab up until September 24, 2022.
An individual who obtained their CCNP Routing & Switching certification on February 25, 2017 will have
until February 26, 2020 to take their CCIE Enterprise lab.
An individual that has passed both ROUTE (300-101)E and SWITCH (300-115) exams and passed
SWITCH on September 23, 2019 will have up until September 24, 2022 to take the CCIE Enterprise lab
DevNet Certifications
Q: What is DevNet?
A: Cisco DevNet is Cisco’s developer program to help developers and IT professionals who want to write
applications and develop integrations with Cisco products, platforms, and APIs. Cisco DevNet includes
Cisco’s products in software-defined networking, security, cloud, data center, mobility, internet of things,
collaboration, services and open-source software development. The developer.cisco.com site also
provides learning and sandbox environments as well as video series for those trying to learn coding and
testing apps.
The industry comes to DevNet to find Cisco Community resources like Code Exchange which includes
code repositories related to Cisco technologies, Ecosystem Exchange to connect with the Global Cisco
Partner Ecosystem and find solutions, and now DevNet Automation Exchange which is the industry
leading code repository of network automation use cases.
Q: Why is Cisco now offering DevNet certifications?
A: Cisco is announcing new DevNet certifications focused on validating the skill sets of software
developers, DevOps engineers, automation specialists, and other software professionals.
The new offering will help unleash the full capabilities of the new network by educating network
infrastructure engineers and software developers in application development, automation, DevOps,
Cloud, and IoT.
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Q: How are DevNet certifications different than Cisco’s traditional certifications?
A: Cisco certifications are already known worldwide as some of the most prestigious networking
credentials in the industry. DevNet certifications are a subset of Cisco certifications, intended to validate
software skills, such as programming, application development, DevOps and automation.
While Cisco certifications are unique and distinct in their subject matter, they are very much
complementary. Together, these certifications provide a comprehensive catalog that validates skill sets in
both networking hardware and software. As Cisco has blended hardware and software to reflect the
demands of the industry, so, too, are these certification programs aligned, making it easy for learners to
fluidly move between technologies, solutions and programmability.
Q: When will DevNet certification exams be available?
A: Exams for the Cisco Certified DevNet Associate, Cisco Certified DevNet Specialist and Cisco Certified
DevNet Professional will be available February 24, 2020.
Q: When will DevNet training courses be available to start preparing?
A: Simply visit https://developer.cisco.com/certification to learn the first steps needed to prepare for
certifications. There you will find learning labs to get you started. Formal training courses will be available
before the exams are released, and we will continue to provide updates on courses on our website as
they become available.
Q: How will I recertify my DevNet certification?
A: Details are forthcoming and more will be shared by February 24, 2020.
Q: Can I just take a DevNet concentration exam alone?
A: Yes, you will earn a Cisco Certified DevNet Specialist if you successfully pass any professional-level
DevNet exam.
Q: Can I take more than one DevNet concentration exam?
A: Yes, you can take as many of the concentration exams as you’d like.
Q: Can I get Continuing Education Credits for DevNet content?
A: Currently all DEVWKS workshops at Cisco Live events count toward a Continuing Education Credit.
Further details are forthcoming and more will be shared by February 24, 2020
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Q: How many continuing education credits will be required to recertify as a Cisco Certified DevNet
Specialist, Cisco Certified DevNet Associate and Cisco Certified DevNet Professional?
A: Details are forthcoming and more will be shared by February 24, 2020.
Q: Does Cisco plan to offer a DevNet Certified Expert certification in the future?
A: Yes, Cisco plans to offer a Cisco Certified DevNet Expert certification. Stay tuned at
developer.cisco.com/certification to learn more.
Q: What is the DevNet Automation Exchange?
A: Cisco DevNet Automation Exchange is an industry leading code repository with over 50 code
repositories and use cases for network automation. This resource provides multi-domain network
automation solutions to provide step-by-step guidelines with code repositories across your entire
automation lifecycle. The Exchange use cases will solve our customers biggest problems and includes
automation at scale, self-serve network operations, telemetry and insights, a holistic approach to
monitoring your network and cross-domain automation of applications.
Utilize the Exchange to build more advanced and more capable networks with intent-based networking,
multi-domain solutions, and APIs and programmability. You can share your code with the community and
use code that has been created by the community. The Exchange is created by the community and
curated by Cisco DevNet.
Specialist Certifications
Q: What is a Specialist certification and how do I achieve it?
A: A Specialist certification covers a specific technology topic. You can earn a Specialist certification by
passing any written, proctored exam in the certification portfolio, with the exception of associate-level
exams.
Q: Can you share a comprehensive list of exams that qualify me for a Specialist certification?
A: The complete list of exams that qualify for a Specialist certification can be found at
https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/training-events/training-certifications/certifications/specialist.html.
Q: How will my current Specialist certification be impacted by these changes?
A: We are always evaluating our portfolio and will continue to make changes as needed. At this time,
your current Specialist certification will remain as it is today.
Q: How does NPDESI and NPDEV fit into the new portfolio structure?
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A: We are always evaluating our portfolio and will continue to make changes as needed. At this time,
NPDESI and NPDEV will remain as they are today.
Training & Training Badges
Q: Will training courses be changing in response to the changes in our certification program?
A: Yes, this change represents a change to both our training and certification program. New training
courses will align to the new certification structure.
Q: When will training for the new exams be available?
A: Training for the new exams will be available beginning June 2019 and new training courses will
continue to roll out over time.
Q: When will new Cisco Press books be available?
A: The schedule for updates to Cisco Press books can be found here: http://cs.co/9005EoAeT
Q: What is happening to Cisco Expert Level Training (formerly CCIE 360)?
A: Cisco Expert Level Training will no longer be sold after August 2019.
Q: Why will you stop selling Cisco Expert Level Training? What new training resources will be available
for CCIEs?
A: Our new program will include training for the technology core exam, the new written exam required to
become a CCIE. We will continue to assess training needs of CCIEs as we roll out the new portfolio.
Q: How do I earn a training badge?
A: More details will be released when training badges are available February 24, 2020.
Q: What do you mean by level 100, 200, 300 and 400 training courses?
A: More details will be released when training badges are available February 24, 2020.
Q: When will I be able to start earning training badges?
A: You may start earning training badges beginning February 24, 2020.
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Q: Where do I track completed training courses and how do I obtain my badges? NOTE: This should be
used as a responsive statement only.
A: More details will be released by February 24, 2020.
Pricing
Q: Will there be any price differences between the current certification exams and the new ones?
A: The total cost to achieve certification has been reduced. When the new exams are released, you can
find pricing for each at the Pearson VUE webpage for Cisco exams
http://www.pearsonvue.com/vouchers/pricelist/cisco.asp
Recertification
Q: How do I recertify as of February 24, 2020?
A: As of February 24, 2020, certified individuals, including CCNA, Cisco Certified Specialist, CCNP and
CCIE, will be able to recertify by either taking exams, earning Continuing Education credits or a mix of
both. Continuing education activities include things like attending Cisco Live training sessions, authoring
content, completing online training courses, completing instructor-led training courses and more.
Q: How many continuing education credits do I need in order to recertify?
A: To recertify as CCNA, you’ll need to complete 30 continuing education credits.
To recertify as Cisco Certified Specialist, you’ll need to complete 40 continuing education credits.
To recertify as CCNP, you’ll need to complete 80 continuing education credits.
To recertify as CCIE, you’ll need to complete 120 continuing education credits.
Q: Can I recertify my CCNA, CCNP, CCIE or Specialist certification by successfully getting a DevNet
certification?
A: Any exam, including DevNet certification exams, that you pass will count towards recertifying your
CCNA, CCNP and CCIE or Specialist certifications, beginning February 24, 2020.
Q: If my certification is being retired, how long do I have before my current certification expires?
A: Your current certification will be active until it’s current expiration date. If your certification is retired,
any time remaining in your current certification lifecycle will remain unchanged.
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Q: How will the recertification cycle be changing under the new portfolio structure?
A: Beginning February 24, 2020, certified individuals will be required to recertify every 3 years.
Candidates will be able to recertify by either taking exams, earning Continuing Education credits or a mix
of both. Continuing education activities include things like attending Cisco Live training sessions,
completing online training courses and more. Also, any active CCIE or CCIE Emeritus that maintains their
CCIE Active or Emeritus status for 20 consecutive years will have the option to become a CCIE Lifetime
Emeritus and will not have to pay additional Emeritus renewal fees.
Q: How will these changes impact the continuing education administrative fee?
A: As of February 24, 2020, the continuing education administrative fee will be retired. Candidates will no
longer be required to pay the administrative fee.
Q: Is my 3-year certification cycle based on my original certification date or based on the date that I
most recently recertified?
A: Your certification status will be active for three years from when you earn your certification. Each time
you complete recertification requirements, your certification status will be extended for an additional
three years from the date you recertify. This marks a change for CCIE certified individuals, as previously
CCIE certification was active for 2 years, and each recertification event extended certification status for
an additional two years from the original certification date. For reference, here’s an example of how the
new recertification cycle will work:
• Certified: Feb 1, 2019 → expiration: Feb 1, 2022
• Recertify: Nov 1, 2019 → expiration: Nov 1, 2022
• Recertify: Aug 1, 2020 → expiration: Aug 1, 2023
Q: Why did you increase the number of CCIE recertification credits required?
A: In the past, the CCIE recertification cycle was a two-year cycle. Now, the CCIE recertification cycle is
three years. Due to this increase in the recertification cycle, we correspondingly increased the number of
continuing education credits required for recertification to maintain the rigor of the program and ensure
skills are continually refreshed.
Q: When will the new recertification policy go into effect?
A: The new recertification policy will go into effect beginning February 24, 2020.
Q: If I’ve accumulated a certain amount of recertification credits, will I lose my credits when the new
recertification policy goes into effect February 24, 2020?
A: No, you won’t lose your credits. They will be applied towards your recertification under the new policy.
Q: What will happen to the CCIE suspended status?
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A: The CCIE suspended status will be retired as of February 24, 2020. If you’re in a suspended status as
of February 24, 2020, your certification will be considered active for the remainder of the suspended
term. To remain active beyond the suspended term, CCIEs must meet new recertification requirements.
For example, if your suspended status ends in April 10, 2020, your CCIE will become active February 24,
2020 and will expire April 10, 2020 unless new recertification requirements are met.
Q: Does continuing education apply to DevNet certifications too?
A: Details will be forthcoming for these new certifications when they are available February 24, 2020.
Transition
Q: What will happen to the people who are studying for their CCNA, Specialist certification, CCNP or
CCIE right now?
A: Cisco will be there to help those in transition every step of the way. We have a plan to get them from
where they are to where they want to be. There is an eight-month lead time to enable learners to
complete certifications under the existing program OR plan to train and certify under the enhanced
program. New and updated training courses will be rolled out beginning in June 2019, representing a
breadth and depth of critical skills in key technology areas. New certification tests will be available
February 24, 2020. Dedicated tools and resources will help you navigate the transition. For specific
information on how your certification will transition, please visit the specific certification track page.
Q: How long do I have to complete my CCNA, Specialist certification, CCNP or CCIE before the current
exams expire?
A: There is an eight-month lead time to enable learners to complete certifications under the existing
program OR plan to train and certify under the enhanced program. New and updated training courses
will be rolled out beginning in June 2019, representing a breadth and depth of critical skills in key
technology areas. New certification tests will be available February 24, 2020. Dedicated tools and
resources will help you navigate the transition. For specific information on how your certification will
transition, please visit the specific certification track page.
Q: I’m in the middle of studying for an exam or just completed the first of two exams towards CCNA,
CCNP or CCIE. What’s my transition plan?
A: Cisco will be there to help those in transition every step of the way. We have a plan to get you from
where you are to where you want to be. There is an eight-month lead time to enable learners to
complete certifications under the existing program OR plan to train and certify under the enhanced
program. New and updated training courses will be rolled out beginning in June 2019, representing a
breadth and depth of critical skills in key technology areas. New certification tests will be available
February 24, 2020. Dedicated tools and resources will help you navigate the transition. For specific
information on how your certification will transition, please visit the specific certification track page.
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Q: If my current Cisco certification transitions to a different certification in February 2020, will I receive a
new certificate for my certification?
A: Yes, if you hold an active certification on February 24, 2020, you will be granted the corresponding
updated certification. For example, if you have an active CCNA Routing and Switching on February 24,
2020, you will be granted the CCNA certification. Please note that when you are granted the updated
certification(s), your recertification deadline will remain unchanged.
Q: My CCNA Wireless certification required that I get a CCENT or a CCNA Routing & Switching as a
prerequisite. Why are all CCNA Wireless holders being migrated into the new CCNA if their skills were
not initially validated with the same rigor as mine? This statement is to be used in response to direct
questions ONLY.
A: We are retooling our program based on learner preferences and market demands. Those call for a
faster path to certification. Fewer prerequisites are designed, not make it easier, but instead to make it
more quickly attainable to get where you want to be, based on where you are today.
Q: In the case where a single retiring exam doesn’t map to a new exam, what can I do?
A: There are certain situations in which two specific retiring exams will map to a single exam in the new
framework. To get credit for the exam you’ve already taken, we encourage you to complete the second
retiring exam within the eight-month transition window. For example, if you’re a CCENT today, you’ll
have eight months to complete your second exam and become a CCNA in the process.
Q: I have passed exams that will be made equivalent to a technology core exam after migration. Will I be
able to take the CCIE lab without taking any additional written exams?
A: Yes. If, after migration, you have the equivalent of a technology core in any technology track you will
be entitled to take the CCIE lab in that same technology track within three years of the most recently
passed core exam equivalent. Please note that you will not be able to schedule your CCIE lab exam until
after the transition has occurred February 24, 2020.
Q: I currently have an active CCNP that was acquired by passing retired certification exams. How will my
certification transition February 24, 2020?
A: After February 24, 2020, you will be granted the new applicable CCNP. Please note that not all retired
exams will transition. Visit the CCNP migration tool to learn which exams will transition:
https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/training-events/training-certifications/certifications/professional/ccnp-
migration-tools.html
Q: Will I get a new digital certificate if I am granted a new certification on February 24, 2020?
A: Yes, you will receive a new digital certificate if you’re granted a new certification on February 24,
2020.
FAQ - External
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Q: If I pass the ROUTE, SWITCH, and TSHOOT exams before February 23, 2020 but do not have a valid
CCNA Routing & Switching certification, will I be granted the CCNP Enterprise February 24, 2020?
NOTE: This should be used as a responsive statement only.
A: Yes, you will be awarded the CCNP Enterprise February 24, 2020 if you pass the ROUTE, SWITCH
and TSHOOT exams before February 23, 2020.