2026 Requirements
PCI DSS
Pentest
Data last verified: January 2026
Penetration Testing for PCI DSS
Required annually (Requirement 11.3) plus after significant changes We align deliverables to Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard evidence needs and auditor expectations.
$5K-$150K
Typical investment for Pentest
1-4 weeksPenalties: Fines up to $500,000/month, loss of card processing ability
Pricing verified Q1 202645+ vendor interviews127+ data sourcesUpdated monthly
Evidence to Satisfy Auditors
Scope coverage matched to PCI DSS controls
Reporting mapped to Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard evidence checklist
Retest to validate remediation before audit deadlines
Decision factors
Scope: External, internal, web app, API, cloud
Testing approach: Black box vs gray box vs white box
Compliance mapping: Reports formatted for specific frameworks
Retest inclusion: Verification of remediation
Timeline: Typical 1-4 weeks for completion
FAQs
Is Penetration Testing required for PCI DSS?
Required annually (Requirement 11.3) plus after significant changes
How often should Pentest be done for PCI DSS?
Annual penetration test, quarterly vulnerability scans
What happens if we skip Pentest for PCI DSS?
Fines up to $500,000/month, loss of card processing ability
Stay compliant with PCI DSS
Get quotes from vetted Pentest providers who deliver auditor-ready evidence.