As an IT beginner with no prior tech experience, I was excited to start my journey with the CompTIA Tech+ certification, but I needed clarity on: What is the current exam code for CompTIA Tech+? After passing the exam with a 720 and landing a help desk interview, I can confirm the exam code and share details on what to expect, plus how I prepared using SkillTestPro’s practice tests. Here’s everything you need to know about the CompTIA Tech+ exam code and how to succeed.
Current Exam Code for CompTIA Tech+
The current exam code for the CompTIA Tech+ certification, also known as IT Fundamentals+, is FC0-U71. This code identifies the latest version of the exam, which was active as of July 2025.
- Exam Details:
- Format: Up to 75 multiple-choice questions, including scenario-based questions (e.g., troubleshooting a printer).
- Duration: 60 minutes.
- Passing Score: 650 out of 900.
- Cost: $138 USD (possible student discounts, ~$109 for U.S. students with a .edu email).
- Domains Covered:
- IT Concepts and Terminology (17%): Basic computing, data, and troubleshooting.
- Infrastructure (22%): Hardware, networking, and peripherals.
- Applications and Software (18%): Operating systems and software management.
- Software Development and Databases (12%): File management and basic database tasks.
- Security (20%): Phishing, passwords, and basic security measures.
- Delivery: Online via Pearson VUE’s OnVUE platform or in-person at a Pearson VUE testing center.
I took the FC0-U71 exam online, and knowing the exam code helped me register correctly and find the right study materials.
Why the Exam Code Matters
The exam code (FC0-U71) is critical for:
- Registration: You need it to schedule your exam with Pearson VUE, ensuring you book the correct test.
- Study Materials: It helps you find resources tailored to the current exam version, as older codes (e.g., FC0-U61) cover outdated content.
- Employer Verification: Employers may check the code to confirm you passed the latest version.
For me, using FC0-U71 ensured I studied relevant topics like Wi-Fi troubleshooting and phishing detection, which were key to passing and impressing interviewers.
How I Prepared for the FC0-U71 Exam
I studied for 6 weeks, 1 hour daily, to pass the FC0-U71 exam with a 720. Here’s what worked:
- Watched Tech Wolf Videos: Tech Wolf’s YouTube channel explained FC0-U71 topics like hardware (e.g., CPUs), networking (e.g., IP addresses), and security (e.g., phishing) in beginner-friendly terms. I watched daily to cover all domains.
- Used SkillTestPro: SkillTestPro’s CompTIA Tech+ practice tests were essential. They mirrored the FC0-U71’s 75-question format, including scenarios like fixing a slow PC. I took one test weekly, aiming for 80% to ensure I’d hit 650. Explanations helped me master networking, my weakest area.
- Got Hands-On: I practiced skills on my laptop, exploring:
- Device Manager: For hardware components like RAM.
- Network Settings: For Wi-Fi setup and troubleshooting.
- Security Settings: Enabled firewalls and created strong passwords.
- Used free tools like VirtualBox (virtualization) and SQLite (databases) to apply concepts.
- Reviewed Weak Areas: Networking (e.g., subnets) was tough. I drilled SkillTestPro tests and rewatched Tech Wolf videos before test day.
- Mistake: Early on, I memorized terms like “router” without understanding their function. SkillTestPro’s scenarios taught me to apply knowledge, like troubleshooting network issues.
I took the exam online via Pearson VUE’s OnVUE platform, finishing with 8 minutes to spare, thanks to practice.
Tips for Passing the FC0-U71 Exam
Based on my experience, here’s how to succeed with the CompTIA Tech+ FC0-U71 exam:
- Confirm the Exam Code: Use FC0-U71 when registering with Pearson VUE to ensure you’re taking the current version.
- Use SkillTestPro: SkillTestPro’s practice tests are affordable (~$20–$50) and mimic FC0-U71’s format. Take 3–4 tests, aiming for 80%, to pass confidently.
- Watch Tech Wolf: Their YouTube videos cover FC0-U71 topics like hardware, networking, and security clearly. Perfect for beginners.
- Study 4–8 Weeks: Study 1–2 hours daily, covering one domain per week (e.g., infrastructure, then security). Focus on practical skills like troubleshooting.
- Get Hands-On: Practice on your computer (e.g., Network settings) or use free tools like VirtualBox to make FC0-U71 concepts real.
- Prepare for Scenarios: FC0-U71 includes scenario questions (e.g., “What’s the first step if a printer fails?”). SkillTestPro’s tests prep you for these.
How Tech+ Helps Beginners
The FC0-U71 exam is ideal for beginners because:
- No Prerequisites: No IT experience needed, perfect for career changers like me.
- Affordable: $138 exam fee, no renewal costs (lifelong validity).
- Job Opportunities: Opens doors to help desk ($40,000–$55,000 U.S.), IT support assistant ($35,000–$50,000), or tech-adjacent roles like customer service.
- Foundation for A+: Preps you for A+ (exam codes 220-1201 and 220-1202), which I’m studying for to boost my IT career.
My Tech+ certification landed me a help desk interview by proving I could handle basics like Wi-Fi setup and phishing detection.
Final Thoughts
The current exam code for CompTIA Tech+ is FC0-U71, covering foundational IT skills for beginners. At $138, it’s an affordable, non-expiring certification that opens doors to entry-level IT roles and preps you for advanced certifications like A+. I passed with a 720 after 6 weeks of study using SkillTestPro’s practice tests and Tech Wolf’s YouTube videos, plus hands-on practice with my laptop and free tools. Use the FC0-U71 code to register, prep smart, and kickstart your IT career. Ready to begin? Buy your voucher and start studying today!
Sources:
- CompTIA Tech+ Exam Prep, skilltestpro.com
- IT Fundamentals Exam Guide, skilltestpro.com
- CompTIA Tech+ FC0-U71 Certification, www.comptia.org