CompTIA A+ in New Hampshire
To become a CompTIA A+ certified in New Hampshire, follow a precise series of steps involving self-study, exam registration, and certification verification. The process typically costs between $800 and $2,500 and can be completed in as little as 4-6 weeks. Key steps include meeting prerequisites, selecting study materials, passing the two required exams, and verifying certification.
In New Hampshire, the CompTIA A+ certification opens doors to a stable career in an industry where the median salary is $62,160 per year. Despite a projected national decline of 3.7% in job growth by 2034, the skill set provided by this certification remains a critical asset in the state's job market. This certification equips individuals with foundational IT skills that are applicable across various sectors, making it a sound career choice despite broader employment trends.
New Hampshire offers a unique environment for CompTIA A+ certified professionals. The state does not impose specific regulations that significantly differ from federal requirements, which simplifies the certification process. The healthcare sector, among others, shows a consistent demand for IT support roles, reflecting the need for skilled technicians capable of managing and maintaining technology systems. Major employers in New Hampshire, including tech firms and public sector agencies, value this certification highly when considering candidates for IT support positions.
This guide provides a detailed roadmap for obtaining CompTIA A+ certification in New Hampshire, outlining the necessary steps from preparation to certification. Readers will gain insights into specific training resources available within the state, average costs associated with obtaining the certification, and realistic salary expectations post-certification. The guide also offers an overview of the job market for CompTIA A+ certified professionals in New Hampshire, helping prospective candidates understand where opportunities are most likely to be found and the types of roles they might expect to fill.
Licensing Authority
CompTIA
New Hampshire does not have specific licensing requirements for CompTIA A+ certification as it is a vendor-neutral IT certification recognized globally, not regulated by state laws.
Official Resources
New Hampshire Requirements
Training Requirements
- Education
- High school diploma or equivalent recommended but not required
- Total Training Hours
- 0 hours
- Classroom Hours
- 0 hours
- Clinical Hours
- 0 hours
- Minimum Age
- 18 years old
Additional Requirements
Certification Exam
- Exam
- CompTIA A+
- Components
- Multiple choice questions, Performance-based
- Fee
- 232 USD per exam
How to Become a CompTIA A+ in New Hampshire
Study materials $200-$500, Exam fees $232, Additional resources $100-$300, Optional training courses $300-$1,500
Fastest Path
4-6 weeks
Typical Timeline
8-12 weeks
Estimated Cost
$800–$2,500
Verify Eligibility for CompTIA A+ Certification
Ensure you meet the basic requirements for CompTIA A+ certification. You must have a high school diploma or equivalent. No prior professional IT experience is required, but basic understanding of computer and networking concepts is beneficial. This step involves checking your educational credentials and ensuring you have a valid ID for exam registration.
Tip
Ensure your ID is valid and has not expired to avoid issues on the exam day.
Select Study Materials
Choose study materials for the CompTIA A+ exam. Options include textbooks, online courses, and practice tests. Make sure your resources cover the latest exam objectives for exams 220-1001 and 220-1002. Consider purchasing the CompTIA A+ study guide and subscribing to online platforms that offer practice exams and video tutorials.
Tip
Check for bundle deals on study materials that include both textbooks and access to online resources.
Register for the CompTIA A+ Exams
Register for both the 220-1001 (Core 1) and 220-1002 (Core 2) exams through Pearson VUE, the official testing provider. You'll need to create an account, select a testing center in New Hampshire, and choose your exam dates. Each exam costs $116. Be prepared to provide personal information and your payment details during registration.
Tip
Choose a testing center close to your location to minimize travel time and stress on the exam day.
Prepare for the Exams
Dedicate time to study for the CompTIA A+ exams using the materials you've selected. Focus on understanding hardware, networking, mobile devices, operating systems, security, and troubleshooting. Utilize practice exams to assess your readiness. Aim to study consistently over a period of 4-6 weeks, depending on your familiarity with the material.
Tip
Schedule regular study sessions and take breaks to avoid burnout.
Take the CompTIA A+ Exams
On the scheduled exam dates, arrive at the testing center with two forms of ID. Each exam is 90 minutes long and consists of multiple-choice and performance-based questions. If you pass both exams, you will receive an email confirming your certification. If you fail, you can retake the exam after a 14-day waiting period, with a fee for each retake.
Tip
Arrive at the testing center at least 30 minutes early to complete the necessary pre-exam procedures.
Verify Your Certification and Update Resume
After passing the exams, verify your CompTIA A+ certification through the CompTIA certification database. Update your resume to include your new certification. This credential validates your foundational IT skills, making you a competitive candidate for entry-level IT positions.
Tip
Include the certification logo on your resume and LinkedIn profile to highlight your qualification.
Begin Your Job Search
Start your job search by looking for entry-level IT positions such as help desk technician, support specialist, or field service technician. Utilize job search platforms like Indeed, LinkedIn, and Glassdoor. Tailor your resume to each application, emphasizing your CompTIA A+ certification and any relevant experience.
Tip
Use filters on job search platforms to find roles that specifically mention 'CompTIA A+ required' or 'preferred'.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- •Attending a training program not on the CompTIA approved list. You will complete the program but be unable to sit for the state competency exam, wasting both your time and tuition money.
What to Expect on Exam Day
CompTIA A+ Certification Exam administered by Pearson VUE
Written Test
Questions: 90
Time Limit: 90 minutes
Format: Multiple choice and performance-based
Passing Score: 675 on a scale of 100-900 for 220-1001; 700 on a scale of 100-900 for 220-1002
- • Hardware: 20%
- • Networking: 20%
- • Mobile Devices: 14%
- • Hardware and Network Troubleshooting: 27%
- • Operating Systems: 27%
- • Security: 24%
- • Software Troubleshooting: 26%
- • Operational Procedures: 23%
Skills Test
Skills Tested: 0
Time Per Skill: N/A
N/A
What to Bring
- ✓ Two forms of identification, one of which must be a government-issued photo ID
- ✓ CompTIA Admission Ticket
- ✓ Confirmation number of the exam appointment
Do Not Bring
- ✗ Personal electronic devices (smartphones, smartwatches, calculators)
- ✗ Food and drinks
- ✗ Hats and bulky outerwear
- ✗ Personal notes or study materials
Day-of Timeline
Arrive 30 minutes early. Check-in takes approximately 15 minutes. Written test is 1.5 hours. No formal break is scheduled.
Getting Your Results
Results are immediate for the written test, provided on-screen at the test center. Official results and certification are mailed within 2 to 3 weeks.
If You Don't Pass
You can retake the exam after a 14-day waiting period. The cost of retake is the same as the initial exam. No limit on the number of attempts in New Hampshire.
Exam Strategies
- 1. Focus on time management, ensuring each question is addressed within a minute to cover all questions within the time limit.
- 2. Flag complex performance-based questions for review and complete them after addressing the multiple-choice queries to optimize time usage.
- 3. Use elimination methods in multiple-choice questions to narrow down the most likely correct answer.
- 4. Review CompTIA's exam objectives thoroughly to ensure familiarity with all potential topics.
Document Checklist
Every document you need from start to finish
1Before Training
High School Diploma or Equivalent
From your high school or the GED Testing Service website · Free to obtain a copy, though some schools may charge a small fee · 1-2 weeks
Required to enroll in most CompTIA A+ training programs
Government-Issued Photo ID
State DMV or other government body · Varies (typically $10-$50 for state IDs and driver licenses) · Immediate to 2 weeks
Needed for exam registration and entry into testing centers
2During Training
Training Course Enrollment Confirmation
From the training provider upon registration · Included in course fees · Immediate upon enrollment
Keep this document as proof of enrollment
Receipt of Training Material Purchase
From bookstores or online retailers · Varies depending on materials · Immediate upon purchase
Retain receipts for potential reimbursements or tax deductions
3For the Exam
Exam Voucher
Directly from CompTIA or authorized sellers · Approximately $232 per exam
Required to register for the CompTIA A+ exams
Second Form of ID
Typically a credit card, social security card, or birth certificate · No additional cost if already owned
Needed as a backup identification for exam admission
Exam Appointment Confirmation
From the testing center or online through the Pearson VUE website · Included in the exam voucher
Confirm the date, time, and location of your exam
4For Certification
CompTIA A+ Certification
Received digitally from CompTIA upon passing the exams · Included in the exam fee
Store this document securely and consider printing a copy for your records
Continuing Education Units (CEUs) Tracking
Maintained through the CompTIA certification account · No cost for tracking, but CEUs activities may have associated costs
Keep track of any continuing education to maintain certification
After You're Certified: What's Next
After passing the CompTIA A+, verify your certification status on the CompTIA website. Download and print your certificate. Update your LinkedIn profile and other professional social media to reflect your new certification.
Finding Your First Job
Where to Look
- • Indeed, Glassdoor, and LinkedIn for job postings. Local tech groups on Facebook or Meetup for networking opportunities. New Hampshire state and local government job boards might also have relevant openings.
Best Employers for New Grads
- • Small to medium-sized IT services companies often hire entry-level technicians and offer hands-on experience. Retailers with tech departments like Best Buy or Staples also hire CompTIA A+ certified technicians. Public sector jobs, such as school districts and libraries, provide stable positions with benefits.
Resume Tip: Highlight any hands-on experience, even from personal projects or volunteer work. List your CompTIA A+ certification prominently. Include soft skills like problem-solving and customer service, which are crucial for IT roles.
Interview Tip: Prepare to discuss basic troubleshooting processes, your understanding of operating systems, and any relevant experience. Expect questions on how to handle difficult customer service scenarios.
Expected First-Year Salary
In New Hampshire, entry-level IT positions such as Help Desk Technician or Computer Technician typically offer salaries ranging from $35,000 to $45,000 annually.
Career Advancement Path
Network+ or Security+ certifications
Study for and pass the certification exams, which may require several months of preparation.
Challenges to Prepare For
- • Entry-level positions may involve repetitive tasks and require patience with routine troubleshooting. Managing customer expectations and maintaining up-to-date technical knowledge are ongoing challenges.
CompTIA A+ Salary in New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, CompTIA A+ certified professionals earn a median annual salary of $62,160, which is higher than the national median. This state offers competitive wages for IT technicians, reflecting a strong market for technology skills.
Entry Level
$37,690
0-1 years experience
Median Salary
$62,160
$29.88/hr · Bureau of Labor Statistics
Experienced
$88,000
5+ years experience
Compared to National Median
$59,240 national · ++4.9% in New Hampshire
Salary by Metro Area
Slightly above state median
Salary by Employer Type
The salary in New Hampshire generally aligns with the state's cost of living, which is moderate compared to major tech hubs.
Benefits & Compensation
Common benefits include health insurance, retirement plans, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.
Salary Growth Outlook
Salary growth for CompTIA A+ certified professionals in New Hampshire is expected to track closely with national trends, increasing as experience and skill levels rise.
Salary Negotiation Tips
- •Research average salaries for your role in the area
- •Highlight specific skills and certifications that add value to your employer
Job Market in New Hampshire
In New Hampshire, the CompTIA A+ job market is facing a decline similar to the national trend of -3.7% expected between 2024 and 2034. Factors such as a smaller technology sector relative to major hubs and limited industrial diversity affect demand for IT professionals. However, localized growth in tech startups and educational institutions may counter some of the downward pressure.
Top Hiring Areas
Tech startups influence demand
Presence of tech-oriented firms
Top Hiring Industries
Best time to apply: Early fall and late spring
Opportunities
- Niche roles in emerging tech startups
- Positions in expanding educational institutions
Challenges
- Small local market limits opportunities
- Competition from more established tech hubs
Training Programs in New Hampshire
New Hampshire offers several CompTIA A+ training programs through community colleges, vocational schools, and employer-sponsored initiatives. These programs prepare students for IT support roles by covering essential hardware and software management skills.
Program Types Comparison
| Type | Duration | Cost | Format | Pros / Cons |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Community College | 6 to 12 months | $1,000 to $5,000 | In-person/Hybrid/Online |
|
| Vocational/Trade School | 3 to 6 months | $2,000 to $6,000 | In-person/Hybrid |
|
| Employer-Sponsored | Varies | Free/Paid training | On-the-job |
|
Top Programs
Manchester, New Hampshire
Offers flexible scheduling with evening and weekend classes
Online & Hybrid Options
Several institutions offer fully online or hybrid CompTIA A+ training, accommodating students who require flexibility.
How to Choose a Program
- •Verify the program's accreditation status to ensure quality education.
- •Consider the program duration and format based on personal scheduling needs.
Financial Aid & Free Training
Get free CompTIA A+ program info for New Hampshire
Renewal Requirements
Renewal Period
Every 3 years
Renewal Fee
Annual CE fee of 50 USD
CE Hours
20 hours
Work requirement: None
CE Topics: IT technology updates, New hardware and software technologies
Out-of-State Reciprocity
As CompTIA A+ is an internationally recognized certification, it is valid across states and countries without the need for state-specific reciprocity agreements.
State Agreements
Not applicable
Additional Exams
None
Application Process
Not applicable
Fees
None
Processing Time: Immediate recognition
Licensing Tips
Prepare thoroughly for the exams using the latest study materials and practice tests available on the CompTIA website.
Stay current with technology trends to ensure success in continuing education and recertification.
Recommended Resources
CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One Exam Guide, Tenth Edition (Exams 220-1001 & 220-1002)
This guide includes practice questions and online test engine with customizable practice exams.
CompTIA A+ Practice Tests: Exam 220-1001 and Exam 220-1002
Contains over 1,200 questions covering all CompTIA A+ 220-1001 and 220-1002 exam objectives.
CompTIA A+ Certification All-in-One For Dummies
Provides comprehensive study material and step-by-step guidance for the CompTIA A+ exams.
CompTIA A+ Complete Study Guide: Exams 220-1001 and 220-1002
Offers full coverage of all exam objectives, real-world scenarios, and hands-on exercises.
PC Repair Toolkit
Essential for hands-on practice with computer hardware assembly, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
Virtualization Software (e.g., VMware or VirtualBox)
Needed to create virtual environments to safely practice software installation and configuration.
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Sources
- Bureau of Labor StatisticsAccessed 2026-02-13
- New Hampshire Licensing BoardAccessed 2026-02-13
- CareerOneStopAccessed 2026-02-13