How long does SOC 2 take?
Short answer, from published sources: about 3–6 months for a first Type 1 and about 6–15 months for a first Type 2. Here's how those numbers break down.
| Phase | Type 1 | Type 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Readiness / preparation | 1–3 months (Drata) | Same as Type 1; depends on control gaps [source] |
| Observation period | None | 3–12 months (Drata); commonly 3, 6 or 12 (soc2auditors.org) [source] |
| Auditor fieldwork | 2–5 weeks (Drata) | 2–5 weeks (Drata) [source] |
| Report drafting & delivery | 2–6 weeks (Drata); about 3–5 weeks after fieldwork (soc2auditors.org) | Same [source] |
| Total, first report | 3–6 months (Drata, Scrut, soc2auditors.org) | 6–15 months (Drata); 6–12 months (Scrut); 6–12+ months (soc2auditors.org) [source] |
What moves the date
- How many control gaps you need to fix before the audit
- Whether each control has a named owner
- Manual vs automated evidence collection
- Scope creep (systems or Trust Services Criteria added mid-way)
- How soon your auditor can start. Engage one during preparation, not after.
Sources: Drata, soc2auditors.org.
Related: SOC 2 Type 1 vs Type 2 · SOC 2 cost guide · Find an auditor · SOC 2 software for early-stage startups
Frequently asked questions
How long does SOC 2 take?
Published planning ranges are 3–6 months for a first Type 1 and roughly 6–12 months (Scrut, soc2auditors.org) to 6–15 months (Drata) for a first Type 2. The Type 2 observation period is the largest variable.
How long does the audit itself take once you are ready?
soc2auditors.org states a SOC 2 audit usually takes about 2–3 months once scope, controls and evidence are ready.
Can software make SOC 2 faster?
Automation can reduce evidence-collection time during preparation, but it cannot shorten a Type 2 observation period, which is calendar time.
What delays SOC 2 most?
Sources cite unclear scope, lack of dedicated owners, manual evidence collection, incomplete policies and auditor availability.
Last verified 2026-10-16. Planning ranges, not guarantees.