Penetration Testing Agreement Template: Scope and Rules

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Penetration Testing Agreement Template

This Penetration Testing Agreement (“Agreement”) is entered into on [Date], by and between:

Client:

Name: __________________________

Address: __________________________

Email: __________________________

Phone: __________________________

Service Provider:

Name: __________________________

Address: __________________________

Email: __________________________

Phone: __________________________

Collectively referred to as the “Parties.”

1. Purpose

The purpose of this Agreement is to authorize and govern penetration testing services to identify and mitigate potential vulnerabilities in the Client’s systems and infrastructure.

2. Scope of Work

The testing will cover the following:

Networks: [Specify IP ranges, servers, routers, etc.]
Applications: [Specify web apps, APIs, mobile apps, etc.]
Physical security (if applicable).
Social engineering attempts (if applicable).

Networks: [Specify IP ranges, servers, routers, etc.]

Applications: [Specify web apps, APIs, mobile apps, etc.]

Physical security (if applicable).

Social engineering attempts (if applicable).

Specific exclusions: [e.g., production databases, critical systems not to be tested].

A detailed scope of work is attached as Exhibit A.

3. Testing Schedule

Start date: [Date]
End date: [Date]

Testing will occur during the following hours to minimize operational disruptions: [Timeframe].

Start date: [Date]

End date: [Date]

Testing will occur during the following hours to minimize operational disruptions: [Timeframe].

4. Methodology

The Service Provider shall conduct testing using recognized ethical hacking techniques and frameworks such as OWASP, NIST, or ISO standards.

No destructive or disruptive actions shall be taken without prior written consent.

5. Reporting

A preliminary report will be provided within [X days] of test completion.
A final comprehensive report, including vulnerabilities and remediation recommendations, will be delivered within [X days].
Reports shall be treated as confidential information.

A preliminary report will be provided within [X days] of test completion.

A final comprehensive report, including vulnerabilities and remediation recommendations, will be delivered within [X days].

Reports shall be treated as confidential information.

6. Confidentiality

Both Parties agree to maintain strict confidentiality regarding all information accessed or disclosed during the engagement, including vulnerabilities, system data, and results.

Confidential information shall not be shared with third parties without prior written consent.

7. Legal Authorization

The Client grants explicit legal authorization to the Service Provider to conduct penetration testing as defined in this Agreement.

The Client assumes responsibility for securing any necessary third-party consents (e.g., from hosting providers).

8. Liability Limitations

The Service Provider’s liability is limited to the total fees paid under this Agreement.
The Client agrees to indemnify the Service Provider against claims arising from the Client’s misuse of findings or failure to implement remediation steps.

The Service Provider’s liability is limited to the total fees paid under this Agreement.

The Client agrees to indemnify the Service Provider against claims arising from the Client’s misuse of findings or failure to implement remediation steps.

9. Fees and Payment

Total fee: $[Amount]
Payment terms: [X]% due upon signing, [X]% upon delivery of final report.

Late payments are subject to [X]% interest per month.

Total fee: $[Amount]

Payment terms: [X]% due upon signing, [X]% upon delivery of final report.

Late payments are subject to [X]% interest per month.

10. Termination

Either Party may terminate this Agreement with [X days] written notice.

Upon termination, the Client shall pay for all work completed up to the termination date.

11. Governing Law

This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of [State/Country].

12. Entire Agreement

This document constitutes the entire agreement between the Parties and supersedes all prior negotiations and agreements.

Signatures

Client Signature: ____________________________ Date: _________

Printed Name & Title: _________________________________________

Service Provider Signature: ____________________________ Date: _________

Printed Name & Title: _________________________________________

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Penetration Testing Agreement Template: Scope and Rules

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Reviewed July 2026 Free download, PDF & DOCX

What is a Penetration Testing Agreement?

A Penetration Testing Agreement is a formal contract between a client and a cybersecurity provider that authorizes security testing on networks, systems, or applications. It defines what is tested, how it is tested, and ensures the activity is legal and safe.

Why is a Penetration Testing Agreement important?

It protects both parties by preventing misunderstandings, unauthorized access, and potential legal issues. It also ensures the test follows ethical hacking standards and complies with laws and regulations.

When should you use a Penetration Testing Agreement?

Use this agreement before conducting any penetration testing to verify system vulnerabilities, whether for internal audits, compliance assessments, or third-party evaluations.

What should a Penetration Testing Agreement include?

It should include the scope of testing, timelines, methods, confidentiality terms, reporting procedures, liability limitations, and termination clauses.