Honolulu, HI asked in Copyright and Intellectual Property for Hawaii

Q: Am I able to write a book to teach towards an industry certification without permission of the owning organization?

The certification is owned by CompTIA. I'd like to write it explicity for the Security+ exam (completely in my own words of course).

2 Lawyer Answers
Bill Hulsey
PREMIUM
Bill Hulsey
Answered
  • Intellectual Property Lawyer
  • Austin, TX

A: Usually, yes.

Barbara Berschler
Barbara Berschler
Answered
  • Intellectual Property Lawyer
  • Rockville, MD

A: Provided you express the "idea" of studying for the test in your own words, an original expression of the idea, it should be OK. However, keep in mind the certifying organization will likely be very interested in what you are doing because of the competition you pose. Best to work with an IP/copyright attorney so that if you proceed, you do so with caution.

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