Complete Guide to PCI DSS Certification Process

PCI DSS is for payment card data. It is seen as the gold standard for protecting sensitive authentication data and with PCI DSS 4.0 in effect the requirements have only become more stringent.

The newer and stronger version was built after much input from the PCI Community, including 6,000+ comments from 200 companies and many different surveys. The thorough update requires a lot of familiarization and implementation effort.

So here’s your complete guide on PCI DSS certification including the steps to get certified, the costs involved, and more.

Bonus: Download the PCI DSS requirements aligned with PCI DSS 4.0

What is a PCI DSS certification?

PCI DSS certification is an audited assurance of adherence to the PCI DSS standard that aims to protect sensitive cardholder information. The Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard requires companies that collect, store, or transmit credit card data to maintain a secure environment and minimize fraud and breaches. 

PCI certification is achieved once you meet the PCI requirements established by the PCI Security Standards Council (PCI SSC), which comprises six major payment brands: American Express, Discover, JCB, MasterCard, and Visa Inc. The 12 major requirements include installing firewalls, encrypting data, and more.

Why is PCI DSS certification required? 

PCI DSS certification is required to protect sensitive cardholder and authentication data, whether stored, transmitted, or processed. This applies whether you are a global enterprise or a start-up. 

Your business must always be compliant, and if you accept credit card brands like American Express, JCB International, VISA, and more, you should validate your compliance annually.

PCI DSS compliance burden applies to all companies that collect, process, and transmit credit card data. If you accept or process credit card payments as a service provider, you must comply with PCI DSS requirements based on the security policy.

11 Steps to get PCI DSS Certification

Getting PCI DSS certified from external Qualified Security Assessors (QSAs) by following the process from 12 certification requirements until continuous monitoring, and it typically takes companies one day to a few weeks to get PCI certified, depending on payment complexity and current information security status.

If you’re keen on achieving PCI compliance, Here is the 11 step process to get PCI DSS compliance certification:

1. Get familiar with 12 PCI DSS requirements

PCI DSS certification process requires you to adhere to twelve PCI DSS requirements, which are distributed among six goals necessary for any company to comply with PCI compliance requirements.

Look at the video for the twelve PCI DSS requirements based on their control objectives.

Hence, the first step is to check if you adhere to all these requirements and compliance assessments and if you need to take the next steps to implement them.

With PCI DSS 4.0 in effect, learn everything that has changed:

2. Identify your PCI level (based on transactions) 

Now that you’re sufficiently familiar with the twelve PCI DSS requirements, the next step in getting PCI DSS certification is to identify the PCI compliance requirements relevant to you.

The PCI Council has classified 4 PCI levels, each with different requirements. The level of PCI compliance that needs to be adhered to mostly depends on the range of online transactions your cloud environment processes annually.

Here are the 4 PCI compliance levels you need to know for your next step in the PCI DSS compliance certification process:

• Compliance Level 1: Transactions per year > 6 million
• Compliance Level 2: Transactions per year – 1 million to 6 million
• Compliance Level 3: Transactions per year – 20,000 to 1 million
• Compliance Level 4 – Transactions per year < 20,000

Suppose your cloud-hosted company falls under compliance level 1. In that case, you need to hire a PCI-qualified security assessor (QSA) to conduct an audit that identifies your company’s meeting of the required PCI data security standard. As part of your business processes, you also need to submit an annual compliance report (ROC).

On the other hand, if your company falls under compliance levels 2 & 3, you must fill out a Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) to attest that your company has implemented all security measures required by the PCI Data Security Standard.

For any organization that falls under compliance level 4, it is still recommended that you fill out SAQ.

3. Understand and document payment card data flow

To safeguard sensitive credit card information, you must first understand where your payment card data resides and how it moves. This is where you need to start creating a data flow that outlines the security systems, physical access to network resources, and applications interacting with credit card data in your company. To improve this, collaborate with your IT and security dedicated teams.Identify every customer-facing aspect of your business connected to payment transactions.

This might include online shopping carts or phone orders. Figure out the various pathways cardholder data takes within your system. It is good to pinpoint where you store the data and who has access to it to get PCI certified.To fully understand the CDE environment, you’ll need diagrams related to data flow, networks, and business processes.

4. Perform a Risk Assessment Of Payment Environment

All cloud-hosted companies must perform a detailed risk assessment in their payment environment to discover threats and vulnerabilities and eliminate the risk of credit card data breaches.

To perform a risk assessment:

• Identify threats and vulnerabilities to sensitive authentication data such as unpatched software, misconfigured firewalls, etc.
• Consider the risk involved such as data loss or theft and the likelihood and impact 
• Check the already existing controls in place and decide on the risk severity considering all factors

Or you can simply leverage integrated risk assessments from a GRC automation platform like  Sprinto. The comprehensive risk library helps you pinpoint risks unique to your business, and the platform automatically scores risks based on likelihood and impact.

5. Conduct a gap analysis of the controls 

Now, you have to review the PCI DSS requirements and the missing controls to discover potential compliance gaps and formulate a remediation plan to close them immediately.

For this step, you can consider hiring a PCI QSA to ensure a proper gap analysis is conducted and reviewed to eliminate errors. Typically, a PCI gap analysis is done by an expert who examines your critical data processes and tech setup to determine your necessary PCI controls. It usually takes 5-7 days.

If you integrate your tech stack with Sprinto, the automation-led approach can help you scope out gaps in 1-2 sessions.

6. Implement the right security controls

Next, examine your security controls and protocols. Once you’ve identified where credit card data could be accessed in your company and what are the risks and gaps, collaborate with your IT and security teams to identify the right controls. The goal is to establish the correct security settings and protocols such as Transport Layer Security (TLS) for secure data transmission.

Sprinto’s guided implementation sessions can help in prioritization of the control list based on the cardholder data environment and fast-track the process.

7. Conduct quarterly scans of your posture

PCI DSS requires internal and external vulnerability scans of network components and servers to identify any vulnerabilities. For this requirement, you need to work with an approved scanning vendor (ASV) to ensure your scans are reliable and meet PCI guidelines.

These vendors conduct external audits using approved security tools to spot any risks or vulnerabilities in your system. Once you spot weaknesses, fix them to reduce the chances of hackers getting in. Doing these scans every business quarter, or roughly every 90 days, keeps your systems secure.

You can leverage Sprinto’s vetted network of QSAs, VAPT partners and ASVs to expedite the process.

8. Ensure continuous compliance for peace of mind

Remember, PCI compliance isn’t a one-time thing. It’s an ongoing process to keep your business compliant as things change. Some payment card brands might need you to send reports regularly, especially if you process a lot of payment card transactions. 

For this, you’ll need a continuous monitoring mechanism to ensure airtight controls. Here is where Sprinto comes in. It has built-in continuous control monitoring and runs automated checks to ensure compliance never falls through the cracks. You can use the dashboard to get a real-time snapshot of control status at any given time and evaluate how you are faring against the requirements.

9. Complete PCI Self Assessment Questionnaire and Attest It

The next step is to finish your PCI Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) and get it reviewed and attested. Bigger companies often get a qualified security assessor (QSA) to assist in accurately assessing their compliance.You can find SAQ for PCI DSS 4.0 in the document library of PCI Security Standards Council.

10. Conduct internal PCI DSS audit

Before you move towards a formal audit, conduct an internal PCI DSS audit. This audit helps you check if you’re following PCI DSS rules.

You can have your own experts do it or hire a third-party auditor. Look at how well your security measures are working, review your documents, and find any places you do not follow the rules.

Fastrack Internal audits with Sprinto

With Sprinto, you can streamline your internal audit process by setting an audit window and fast-tracking your PCI DSS 1 compliance readiness. Our platform can help you achieve over 90% readiness in a matter of weeks rather than months. If the audit finds problems, make sure to fix them before you proceed to the next step.

See how we helped one of our customers get compliant.

11. Get Audited For PCI DSS Certification

Getting PCI DSS certification is important, but only external Qualified Security Assessors (QSAs) can do official audits. QSAs are data security experts certified by the PCI DSS Council. After you’ve chosen your QSA and defined what they’ll evaluate, they’ll investigate various parts of your organization.

They’ll examine how you’ve set up security controls to meet the 12 PCI DSS-applicable requirements.  Their main job is to check for potential cardholder data vulnerabilities, not punish your organization. 

The QSA will test your cardholder data environment, including devices, public networks, and applications that handle cardholder info. They’ll also review your overall security requirements, including policies and procedures.

Once they are thorough, they’ll create and submit a detailed annual Report. Sprinto can help you simplify your external audit with automated evidence collection. All you need to do is integrate your cloud stack with Sprinto and upload evidence in the form of screenshots. If anything is missing the system will immediately send alerts to the admin.

On the day of the audit, you can simply show the audit dashboard where all the evidence is available in one place instead of going back and forth.

Benefits of getting PCI DSS certification

PCI DSS, of course, provides a baseline security for the burden of customer data you hold. But apart from that, here are some of the benefits you’ll receive directly or indirectly when you become PCI-compliant.

1. Prevents data breaches

Data breaches happen a lot nowadays, both for big and small companies. Preventing data breaches is the main goal of PCI-DSS. Its requirements ensure you have everything in place to stop a big breach from happening.

2. Increases customer trust

Would you support a business if you thought your credit card data might get stolen? Most people wouldn’t. Even though customers might still need to grasp the details of compliance fully, they’re becoming more aware of the issue due to public breaches in the news.

Customers view PCI compliance as a sign that your business follows best practices. Customer confidence has a big impact on your brand and profits. People who don’t trust you to protect their data are less likely to spend money. 

In fact, two-thirds of US adults wouldn’t return to a business after a data breach.

3. Avoid paying penalties 

Unlike GDPR, where fines are one-time, PCI DSS penalties accumulate monthly until you’re compliant. These monthly penalties can add up fast or push you into hasty compliance.

The entire process is expensive and can run you out of business. 

4. Improves your business trajectory

Cybercriminals see third-party corporate networks as potential entry points, so companies are checking the security of their vendors and partners. They often demand strong security measures before partnering with an organization.

Being PCI compliant is a big plus. It can boost your chances of forming business relationships tenfold. Many businesses require PCI compliance as one of the conditions for partnership.

How long does PCI DSS certification take?

Becoming PCI DSS certified can take anywhere from one day to two weeks. It all depends on how long it takes to complete the self-assessment questionnaire and pass the PCI scan. 

Once you’ve passed both, the results are sent to your merchant bank, which then shares them with the Payment processing card industry to confirm compliance.

However, this is the time taken once you are certification-ready. If you take the manual approach, the time taken to implement controls and build readiness can be months. You can use the Compliance effort calculator to understand this better

You need automated tools to expedite the process. Sprinto can help you get PCI audit ready in weeks with streamlined workflows, in-built automated checks and more.

How much does PCI DSS certification cost?

The PCI DSS certification cost for a small organization could be between $5,000 and $20,000, whereas for a large organization, it could be anywhere between $50,000 and $200,000. 

The cost of PCI DSS certification depends on several factors, from business size to recertification requirements you must face every year. If you want to find out the actual cost of PCI DSS compliance, we have a free resource from Sprinto for you.

Sprinto’s cost calculator is designed to help you budget for the compliance cost well in advance before the actual audit. This way, you can set aside the required budget and resources before starting the compliance process.

Check our cost calculator here.

Factors impacting the Cost of PCI DSS certification

Business size	Larger businesses typically have more complex systems and processes, which can result in higher certification costs
Scope of compliance	The more systems, networks, and processes that need to be assessed for compliance, the higher the certification costs
Level of compliance	Achieving higher levels of compliance may require additional internal resources and investment, leading to higher certification costs
External assistance	Some businesses may need to hire external consultants or auditors to help with the certification process, which can add to the overall cost
Remediation efforts	If gaps in compliance need to be addressed, the cost of remediation efforts can increase the overall certification cost
Recertification	Certification needs to be renewed regularly, so businesses should factor in ongoing costs for recertification

How do you demonstrate PCI DSS certification to your customers?

Once you’ve got your PCI-DSS certification, it’s important to let your customers know. The Attestation of Compliance (AOC) and the Report on Compliance (ROC) are proof that you’re certified, so make sure to share that info with them.

For example, Sprinto offers a trust center feature. You can use it to demonstrate your commitment to top-notch security standards so your customers can feel confident about trusting you with their data.

Just sign up on Sprinto, build your security profile and configure access settings to make it a public or private profile. Share only relevant information about your security practices and customize your profile accordingly.

Check out this video to learn how you can share your live compliance status and security posture with your clients:

Get PCI DSS Certification ready with Sprinto

Protecting customer cardholder data is a universal challenge for businesses handling credit cards. Starting with PCI standards is a smart move. Avoiding or half-heartedly pursuing PCI DSS can lead to problems.

PCI DSS is the best path to secure your data and is more cost-effective than risking a data breach. That’s where Sprinto comes in, offering innovative features to swiftly make your business compliant.

In addition to evidence collection and continuous monitoring, Sprinto aids in risk management and efficient internal audits. If you want to learn more, connect with our experts for a 1:1 call.

FAQs

Why do we need to give PCI DSS policies more importance?

Policies form the basis of any organization’s Information Security Management system. In simple terms, they’re written statements of what you intend to do. Sharing policies with your staff is essential to set expectations and achieve your goals. These policies are also shared with customers and prospects to demonstrate your commitment to doing the right things, which builds trust.

How often is PCI certification required?

PCI compliance certification is an annual requirement. Whether you’re a small startup or a big global company, PCI DSS is a must if you handle cardholder data. Your business must maintain continuous compliance, and you’ll need to get it validated yearly.

Does Sprinto support PCI DSS certification of the new version?

Yes, Sprinto supports the PCI-DSS 4.0 version. You don’t need to worry about any hiccups along the way when you’re trying to get certified. The experts at Sprinto will help you be compliant in no time with minimal manual effort.

What happens if you lose PCI certification?

By chance, if you lose PCI certification, you will be hit with the mountain of paying fines and penalties if there is a data breach. It will also affect your business relationships.

Losing PCI certification can lead to problems with your bank, the credit card companies you work with, and other sensitive payment processors. They usually don’t want to do business with a company that isn’t PCI compliant for even a single transaction.

How to get PCI DSS certification in India ?

Obtaining PCI DSS certification in India requires the expertise of external Qualified Security Assessors (QSAs), accredited by the PCI DSS Council. Once you’ve selected your QSA, they’ll thoroughly examine different facets of your organization’s security protocols. After the assessment, the QSA will provide a comprehensive report detailing any areas that need improvement to meet PCI DSS standards. The cost of PCI DSS certification in India starts at Rs 1,50,000 and can exceed Rs 10,00,000. The security measures can cost extra ranging from Rs 5,00,000 to Rs 1,00,00,000.

To streamline this external audit process, Sprinto offers a solution with automated evidence collection. By integrating your cloud infrastructure with Sprinto, you can easily upload evidence in the form of screenshots during the certification procedure, making compliance simpler and more efficient.