Frequently Asked Question
![](https://www.pcisecuritystandards.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/03/FAQs-alt.jpg)
What are the steps needed to perform a self assessment to validate compliance with PCI DSS?
Merchants and service providers that validate PCI DSS compliance using a Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) will typically complete the following steps:
-
Identify the SAQ that applies to your environment, using the Self- Assessment Questionnaire Instructions and Guidelines document (available in the PCI SSC Documents Library) for guidance. Merchants should consult with their acquirer (merchant bank) or the payment brands directly to determine if they are eligible or required to submit an SAQ, and if so, which SAQ is appropriate for their environment.
-
Confirm your environment is properly scoped and meets all the eligibility criteria for the SAQ being used.
-
Perform the self-assessment activities as described in the Expected Testing column of the SAQ, and enter a response for each requirement included in the SAQ.
-
Complete all sections of the SAQ and Attestation of Compliance (AOC). AOCs are included within each SAQ and also provided as separate, standalone documents.
-
If required as part of your compliance, complete external vulnerability scans using a PCI SSC Approved Scanning Vendor (ASV), and obtain passing scan reports from the ASV.
-
Submit the required documentation to your acquirer or payment brand, in accordance with the applicable payment brand compliance programs. Your compliance documentation may include the full SAQ, AOC, and/or ASV scan reports, as well as other documentation requested by your acquirer or payment brand.
Related
-
What is the scope of a PCI DSS assessment for service providers that can impact the security of payment account data, if the service provider does not directly store, process, or transmit payment account data?
-
Does PCI DSS apply to service providers that can impact the security of payment account data, if the service provider does not directly store, process, or transmit payment account data?
-
Can service providers use eligibility criteria from a merchant Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) to determine applicable PCI DSS requirements for the service provider’s assessment?
Featured FAQ Articles
Featured
-
Do PCI DSS requirements for keyed cryptographic hashing apply to previously hashed PANs?
-
Is the PCI DSS Attestation of Compliance intended to be shared?
-
How does an entity report the results of a PCI DSS assessment for new requirements that are noted in PCI DSS as best practices until a future date?
-
Where do I direct questions about complying with PCI standards?
-
Can SAQ eligibility criteria be used for determining applicability of PCI DSS requirements for assessments documented in a Report on Compliance?
Most Popular
-
What is the scope of a PCI DSS assessment for service providers that can impact the security of payment account data, if the service provider does not directly store, process, or transmit payment account data?
-
Does PCI DSS apply to service providers that can impact the security of payment account data, if the service provider does not directly store, process, or transmit payment account data?
-
Can service providers use eligibility criteria from a merchant Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) to determine applicable PCI DSS requirements for the service provider’s assessment?
-
What does “console access” mean for PCI DSS Requirements 8.4.1 and 8.4.2?
-
What evidence is a TPSP expected to provide to customers to demonstrate PCI DSS compliance?
Most Recently Updated
-
How do I contact the payment card brands?
-
What is the scope of a PCI DSS assessment for service providers that can impact the security of payment account data, if the service provider does not directly store, process, or transmit payment account data?
-
Does PCI DSS apply to service providers that can impact the security of payment account data, if the service provider does not directly store, process, or transmit payment account data?
-
Can service providers use eligibility criteria from a merchant Self-Assessment Questionnaire (SAQ) to determine applicable PCI DSS requirements for the service provider’s assessment?
-
Which version of the P2PE Standard should be used for a P2PE assessment?