How to Renew Your CompTIA Linux+ Certification (XK0-005)
CompTIA Linux+ (XK0-005) certifies your ability to manage, troubleshoot, and configure Linux systems – a valuable skill in DevOps, cybersecurity, and IT administration roles. Like all CompTIA certifications, Linux+ is valid for 3 years, and must be renewed to remain active.
In this guide, you’ll discover the official methods to renew your Linux+ certification before it expires.
✅ Option 1: Earn a Higher-Level Certification
One of the easiest ways to renew your Linux+ is by passing a higher-level CompTIA certification during the 3-year period. These include:
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CompTIA CySA+ (CS0-003)
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CompTIA PenTest+ (PT0-002)
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CompTIA CASP+ (CAS-004)
🎯 When you earn a higher-level certification, your Linux+ is automatically extended for another 3 years from the new exam date.
✅ Option 2: Submit 50 CEUs (Continuing Education Units)
Another way to renew your Linux+ is by earning 50 CEUs within the 3-year cycle. You can earn CEUs by:
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Attending live or virtual tech conferences
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Completing IT courses or training programs
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Earning other certifications (e.g., Red Hat, LPIC, AWS)
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Publishing blog articles or tech white papers
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Teaching or mentoring Linux/IT content
📝 All CEUs must be submitted through your CompTIA certification account before the certificate expires.
✅ Option 3: Complete CertMaster CE for Linux+
This is the fastest, most convenient renewal method – no exam needed.
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It’s a self-paced online course developed by CompTIA
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Takes approximately 4–6 hours to complete
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Designed for professionals who already hold Linux+
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Upon completion, it instantly renews your certification for 3 more years
Start here:
👉 https://www.comptia.org/renew
📌 Tips for a Smooth Renewal
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Don’t wait until the final months – start planning renewal by year 2
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Track CEUs as you earn them
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Combine renewal with career advancement (e.g., earn CySA+ or Red Hat)
📅 Real Example:
If you passed CompTIA Linux+ in July 2023, and then completed CertMaster CE in April 2025, your Linux+ is now valid through April 2028.
🎓 Final Thoughts
Staying certified shows employers that you're committed to staying current in open-source and Linux-based technologies. Whether you prefer to earn CEUs, advance to a higher-level cert, or complete CertMaster CE, CompTIA provides flexible renewal paths that match your learning style and goals.
🌐 Ready to renew? Start now at: comptia.org/renew