CCIE Service Provider Exam Cost and Registration Process

The CCIE Service Provider certification is one of the most advanced credentials offered by Cisco for networking professionals who work with large-scale service provider infrastructure. Known for its rigorous exam format and expert-level requirements, the CCIE SP certification is a serious commitment—both in terms of time and money. Whether you're planning to register or just curious about the costs involved, understanding the full cost structure and registration process is essential to prepare effectively. In this blog, we’ll break down the CCIE Service Provider exam cost, guide you through the registration process, and offer practical tips to help streamline your journey in 2025.

CCIE Service Provider Exam Structure

Before diving into the fees, let’s quickly recap the two-part exam structure for CCIE SP:

1. Qualifying Written Exam (300-510 SPRI)
   • Duration: 2 hours
   • Topics: Core SP technologies including BGP, OSPF, IS-IS, MPLS, QoS, Segment Routing
   • Delivered online or at a Pearson VUE test center
2. CCIE Lab Exam
   • Duration: 8 hours
   • Modules: Design, Deploy, Operate & Optimize
   • Taken at a Cisco-certified lab center

You must pass the written exam to qualify for the lab exam.

CCIE Service Provider Exam Cost in 2025

Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect to pay:

Total estimated cost: Between $2,500 and $10,000+, depending on how you prepare and your travel requirements.

While the direct exam fees total around $2,000, the real investment often lies in lab prep, training, and travel. Many candidates attend online bootcamps, rent virtual labs, or use tools like EVE-NG or Cisco VIRL for practice.

CCIE Service Provider Registration Process

Step 1: Create a Cisco Account

Start by signing up at the Cisco Learning Network. This account will serve as your central hub for exam registration, tracking, and certification management.

Step 2: Register for the Written Exam

• Visit Pearson VUE’s Cisco Portal.
• Schedule the 300-510 SPRI exam at your preferred test center or online.
• Pay the $400 fee during checkout.
• Take and pass the exam to become eligible for the lab.

Step 3: Schedule the Lab Exam

Once you've passed the written exam:

• Go to the Cisco Certification Tracking System.
• Choose your preferred lab location and date.
• Pay the $1,600 fee to confirm your booking.
• Ensure your passport and visa (if required) are ready well in advance.

Step 4: Prepare and Show Up

Cisco does not offer online delivery for lab exams—you must appear in person at one of the official CCIE lab centers (e.g., San Jose, Brussels, Bangalore, etc.). Seats fill up quickly, so plan at least 3–6 months in advance.

Things to Keep in Mind

• Retake Costs: If you fail the lab, you must pay the full $1,600 again for each attempt.
• Exam Validity: The written exam is valid for 18 months to take your first lab attempt. After that, you must retake the written exam.
• Rescheduling: You must cancel or reschedule at least 90 days before the lab date, or forfeit the fee.

Final Thoughts

The CCIE Service Provider certification is a premium investment in your career. While the cost can be substantial—especially for the lab exam and travel—it is often justified by the career advancement, salary boosts, and credibility it provides in the networking world. By understanding the exam structure, planning your budget, and following the registration steps carefully, you can set yourself on the right path to becoming a CCIE SP-certified professional in 2025.