The short version
CY0-001 has a maximum of 60 questions and gives you 60 minutes. You need a scaled score of 600 on a scale of 100 to 900. The questions are multiple-choice and performance-based, and the exam is offered in English and Japanese. These figures come from CompTIA’s SecAI+ page, checked on October 18, 2026.
The numbers
| Item | What CompTIA publishes |
|---|---|
| Exam code and version | CY0-001, V1 |
| Maximum number of questions | 60 |
| Time | 60 minutes |
| Passing score | 600 on a scale of 100 to 900 |
| Question types | Multiple-choice and performance-based |
| Languages | English and Japanese |
| Launch date | February 17, 2026 |
| Retirement | Estimated 3 years after launch |
Notice the wording “maximum of 60”. CompTIA does not promise exactly 60 questions, so you may see fewer. Plan for the full 60 either way.
The time works out to about one minute per question on average. That is tighter than it sounds, because scenario questions are long and performance-based questions take longer than a plain multiple-choice item.
Question types
Multiple-choice. One best answer from several options, and some items ask you to pick more than one. When a question says “choose two” or “choose three,” read that instruction twice before you click.
Performance-based. CompTIA says the exam includes these, and in general this style asks you to do a small task or work through a scenario rather than pick from a list. CompTIA does not publish how many performance-based questions there are or what they look like for this exam, so treat any specific number you read elsewhere with caution. Practice reading a scenario, spotting the one fact that decides the answer, and moving on.
Our own sample questions are all multiple-choice. They show the scenario style, but they are not a substitute for CompTIA’s description of the exam.
How scoring works
The score runs from 100 to 900, and 600 passes. This is a scaled score. A scaled score is not a percentage of correct answers, so you cannot turn 600 into “I need 66%”. CompTIA does not publish how many questions you must answer correctly, and in general scaled scoring exists so that different sets of questions can be compared fairly. The practical lesson is simple: aim well above the line in your practice rather than trying to work out the minimum.
Do not treat your practice percentage as a prediction of your real score. It tells you which topics are strong and which are weak, which is the useful part.
Delivery
CompTIA’s SecAI+ exam page does not say how the exam is delivered. CompTIA’s candidate agreement describes both testing in a test center and remote proctoring, where you use your own computer and a personal internet connection. Check your options when you book, since the booking page is where availability is confirmed.
Rules from the candidate agreement worth knowing in advance:
- Mobile phones and other materials are not allowed in the testing area.
- Making notes is prohibited except on materials you are given at a test center.
- Using AI software or applications during the exam is prohibited. Yes, even on this exam.
Our exam day guide covers the practical routine, such as what to bring and how to arrive.
Retakes
CompTIA’s candidate agreement says:
- There is no waiting period between your first and second attempt.
- Before a third or later attempt, you must wait at least 14 calendar days from your last attempt.
- You pay the exam price every time you attempt the exam.
- You may not retake an exam you have passed, with the same exam code, without CompTIA’s consent.
This is a good reason to book the first attempt when you are ready, not “to see what it’s like.”
Validity and renewal
CompTIA’s continuing education page lists 15 CEUs for SecAI+ in a three-year renewal cycle. It also lists several ways to earn them, including CompTIA’s own CertMaster CE, other certifications, and approved training. Read the CompTIA continuing education page for the current rules.
More guides for CY0-001
- CY0-001 Domains Explained
- Is CY0-001 Hard? SecAI+ Difficulty
- CY0-001 Prerequisites and Skills Check
- CY0-001 Renewal and Retakes Explained
- Is CY0-001 Worth It? An Honest Look
- CY0-001 Cheat Sheet: Key Facts to Review
- SY0-801 vs CY0-001: Which Exam First?
Next step
The study plan turns the 60-minute clock and the domain weights into a schedule. When you are ready to practice under a clock, our CY0-001 practice tests include a 60-question, 60-minute set.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on CY0-001?
CompTIA says a maximum of 60. It does not state a minimum.
Can I fail and retake straight away?
After a first failed attempt, CompTIA’s candidate agreement requires no wait before the second attempt. Before the third attempt you must wait at least 14 calendar days.
Is there a penalty for guessing?
CompTIA does not describe a guessing rule on its SecAI+ page, so the safe habit is to answer every question and flag the uncertain ones for review if time allows.