Introduction to the CEH Certification

The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification, issued by the EC-Council, is a globally recognized credential for professionals in the field of cybersecurity. It validates your ability to identify, exploit, and secure information systems using the same knowledge and techniques as malicious hackers—but with legal and ethical intent. The CEH is a critical certification for individuals pursuing careers as penetration testers, ethical hackers, or cybersecurity consultants.

But how exactly can one obtain this certification, and more importantly, where can you take the CEH certification exam? Here’s everything you need to know, based on official EC-Council information.

Paths to Earning the CEH Certification

There are two main ways to earn your CEH certification:

1. By enrolling in official EC-Council training
2. By applying for the exam directly through an eligibility application (without formal training)

1. Enroll in Official EC-Council Training

The EC-Council offers structured and authorized training programs through three primary delivery formats:

• iWeek (Instructor-led Live Online Training):
  This includes real-time sessions with EC-Council Certified Instructors. Candidates can interact, ask questions, and engage in hands-on labs guided by experts.
• iLearn (Self-Paced eLearning):
  This option allows you to access pre-recorded training videos, official courseware, labs, and practice tools at your own pace—ideal for self-motivated learners with a busy schedule.
• Classroom (In-Person Training):
  Delivered at Authorized Training Centers (ATCs) around the world, this format is preferred by learners who benefit from face-to-face interaction and structured environments.

All these official training formats automatically make you eligible to sit for the CEH exam, without needing to submit additional applications or proof of experience.

2. Take the Exam Without Training (Eligibility Required)

If you have at least two years of verified work experience in the Information Security field, you may opt to take the exam directly—without completing an EC-Council course. However, you will need to:

• Submit an Exam Eligibility Application
• Provide valid documentation of your work experience
• Pay a non-refundable eligibility application fee

Once your application is approved, you can proceed to schedule your exam.

This route is typically chosen by experienced professionals who have already worked extensively in the cybersecurity domain and feel confident enough to self-study for the exam.

Where Can You Take the CEH Exam?

The EC-Council offers flexible and globally accessible exam options:

1. Online with Remote Proctoring (Proctored Exams)

• This is the most convenient and popular method.
• You can take the exam from your home or office, provided your space meets the technical and privacy requirements.
• A certified remote proctor will monitor you during the exam to maintain exam integrity.
• You will be required to schedule the exam in advance and follow specific setup protocols using a webcam and secure browser.

2. In-Person at Authorized Testing Centers (ATC or Pearson VUE)

• EC-Council exams can also be taken at Pearson VUE testing centers located around the world.
• This is suitable for those who prefer a traditional exam setting.
• You can locate a nearby test center and schedule your exam on the EC-Council or Pearson VUE websites.

Both methods lead to the same globally recognized CEH credential, so it depends on your preferred exam experience.

Conclusion

The Certified Ethical Hacker (CEH) certification is flexible in both training and exam delivery, making it accessible to professionals around the world. Whether you choose to train with an EC-Council Accredited Partner, follow self-paced eLearning, or qualify for the exam based on prior experience, you’ll find a method that suits your career path.

You can take the CEH exam either online with remote proctoring or at authorized testing centers like Pearson VUE, depending on what works best for you. This accessibility, combined with its global recognition, makes CEH one of the most valuable certifications in the cybersecurity industry today.