HTB CPTS (Hack The Box) Certification Preparation Bootcamp
Hack The Box's Certified Penetration Testing Specialist (CPTS) validates your ability to run a full penetration test and document it. The exam is fully hands-on, runs over ten days and ends with a professional-grade report. This five-day bootcamp structures your progress through the Penetration Tester path, strengthens your methodology and trains you to write the report.
Apply a structured penetration testing methodology, from scoping to reporting
Carry out enumeration and vulnerability assessment of a scope
Test web application security against common risk categories
Assess the security of an Active Directory environment
Organise notes and evidence during a long engagement
Write a penetration test report a client can act on
Program
Methodology and scoping
Penetration test process and rules of engagement
Note-taking and evidence handling
Reconnaissance and enumeration
Information gathering
Service enumeration and vulnerability assessment
Web applications
Common web vulnerability categories
Using an intercepting proxy
Systems and Active Directory
Windows and Linux privilege escalation
Active Directory security assessment
Reporting and simulation
Structure of a commercial report
Engagement simulation and report review
Prerequisites
Solid TCP/IP networking basics
Command-line practice on Linux and Windows
Web security fundamentals
Enough technical English to write a report
Target audience
Junior penetration testers who want to validate their skills
Administrators and SOC analysts moving into offensive security
Candidates choosing between OSCP+ and CPTS
The exam
To access the exam, Hack The Box requires 100% completion of the HTB Academy Penetration Tester path and a voucher, valid for one year from purchase. The exam is hands-on and lasts ten days: you must reach a points threshold and submit a professional report in English. Each voucher includes two attempts; the second is only available if you submitted a report for the first. Results can take up to 20 business days.
Preparation tips
Finish the Penetration Tester path before booking the exam
Write notes as you go: the report matters as much as the technique
Plan your ten exam days like a real client engagement
Frequently asked questions (FAQ)
What are the prerequisites for CPTS?
Hack The Box requires 100% completion of the HTB Academy Penetration Tester path and a valid exam voucher.
How many attempts are included?
Two attempts per voucher. The second must be started within 14 days of feedback on the first, provided a report was submitted.
CPTS or OSCP+?
Both are hands-on exams. CPTS lasts ten days with a strong focus on the report; OSCP+ lasts close to 24 hours. We also offer OSCP+ preparation.
Which language is the exam in?
The report must be written in English. Our preparation sessions can be delivered in French or English.