For those wishing to attempt CFCE Certification without attendance at the BCFE training, we offer the CFCE External Certification process. The External CFCE process is starts twice per year in March and September. The external process provides you the same testing experience as BCFE attendants.
The registration for External CFCE will open for purchase on or about June 1st (for the September cycle) and December 1st (for the March cycle) of each year.
NOTE: As of 2024, External CFCE candidates are not provided with the BCFE training manual. They will receive a comprehensive study guide.
Additional Details
CFCE External Prerequisites
Candidates must show proof of 72 hours of computer forensics training equivalent to the CFCE core competencies. Candidates may be required to show proof in the form of a training certificate.
When is CFCE Recertification Offered?
The option to purchase the External CFCE will only be available during open periods:
- On or about June 1st for the September cycle
- On or about December 1st for the March cycle of each year
When an External CFCE cycle is open, you can register on our Purchase Certification page.
CFCE Recertification Confidentiality and Ethics
DO NOT POST TEST CONTENT QUESTIONS TO THE LISTSERV!
CFCE Recertification Requirements
All requirements must be met at the time of application to recertify.
- One proficiency exercise must be successfully completed in the third year following initial certification or recertification. The exercise only counts when taken in the final year of certification period.
- Previous three years dues paid (if IACIS member), Recertification Fee* paid (if non-Member or delinquent in any previous dues year).
- Forty (40) hours of continuing education in the field of computer/digital forensics.
- Only classes where attendance is documented and certificates issued will be accepted. No webinars or other undocumented training can be submitted. Certificants must provide copies of completed courses, training certificates, or other documentation to the Recertification Subcommittee when the application for recertification is submitted.
- Certificants who teach related topics in computer/digital forensics, information technology, or investigations may apply formal classroom hours to this requirement. The Recertification Committee reserves the right to verify training documented by a certificant.
- Certificants must demonstrate that they are working in the field of computer/digital forensics accomplishing one of the following:
- Completing at least three (3) computer/digital forensic examinations.
- Supervising or managing a related function
- Completing three (3) IACIS proficiency tests within three years.
- Certificants must read and agree to uphold the current IACIS Ethical Code of Conduct.
If you have not been a dues-paying member at any time during your three year certification period, a fee of $150 must be paid to recertify. A requirement of CFCE Recertification is having paid dues for the three years your CFCE was valid. Non-Members may continue to recertify but must pay a fee of $150.
CFCE Certification F.A.Q.
What if I fail the Recertification Proficiency Exam?
Members will be allowed one retest should they fail to successfully complete their first attempt at the Recertification Exercise. Members may only attempt two re-certification exercises in a calendar year. Should a member fail to complete the re-certification requirements and successfully pass the re-certification exercise by the second attempt or 2359 GMT December 31st their CFCE will expire.
