Grandfathering

Candidates who have a relevant and verifiable background in federal IT security standards and practices can "grandfather" into the program.  Those who apply must have five years in direct support of a federal agency or department as federal civilian, military and/or contractor staff in an IT security role.  Candidates can substitute a number of years experience with either college work or existing certifications.  (See FITSP requirements under FITSP Overview).

Candidates must pay a $395 fee and meet the ongoing requirements to maintain their FITSP certification as any other FITSP candidates.  Candidates can grandfather in up to two roles but must pay a separate $395 fee for each role-based certification.  CPEs have to be earned separately for each role.

The grandfathering program is now closed.