Employers rarely ask for it
In r/CompTIA threads, people say they have not seen job postings that ask for Tech+ and advise going straight to A+ if your goal is a job.
CompTIA Tech+ (FC0-U71 (no expiration) or FC0-U71-CE (renewable, 5 years))
Validates foundational IT knowledge across computing basics, hardware, software, programming concepts, databases and security.
Summary
CompTIA Tech+ is CompTIA's introductory IT certification for people with no technical background. It checks that you understand computing basics, hardware, software, programming concepts, databases and security, and is a broad first step before choosing an IT career path.
Good fit if
- You are new to IT and want a low-cost start
- You want a first certification before A+
- Your school or training program uses Tech+
Look elsewhere if
- You work in IT or want help desk jobs: A+
- You want a guided course with projects: Google IT Support
Prerequisites
Cost
What holders say
A first step for complete beginners
Career changers use Tech+ to learn the vocabulary and see how CompTIA exams feel before spending more on A+. People with existing IT experience are told to skip it.
Renewal
Tech+ does not expire when you take the FC0-U71 exam.
- Validity
- No expiry
If you register for the FC0-U71-CE series instead, Tech+ is valid for 5 years and renews by passing the latest Tech+ exam, with no CE fee.
CompTIA Tech+ ↗Alternatives
FAQ
Is CompTIA Tech+ worth it?
It is worth it if you have no IT background and want a structured, low-cost start. If you already know computers well or want a job soon, take A+ instead.
Is Tech+ the same as ITF+?
Tech+ (FC0-U71) replaced IT Fundamentals+ (FC0-U61) in July 2024. ITF+ has retired, so Tech+ is the only version.
How hard is the Tech+ exam?
It is CompTIA's most basic exam. It has up to 70 multiple-choice questions in 60 minutes and needs 650 out of 900 to pass. CompTIA says no prior experience is necessary.
Does Tech+ expire?
Not if you take the FC0-U71 exam. If you register for FC0-U71-CE instead, it is valid for 5 years.
Should I take Tech+ before A+?
Only if you are new to computers. Tech+ is not required for A+, and A+ covers the same basics in more depth.
Last updated October 2026