AWS Certification can boost your cloud career and skills.
It shows employers you know your stuff when it comes to AWS services. To sign up for AWS Certification, you need to create an AWS Certification account and pick the exam you want to take.
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Getting certified isn’t just about passing a test.
It’s about proving you can handle real-world cloud challenges.
AWS offers different levels of certifications, from beginner to expert.
You can choose the one that fits your experience and career goals.
Once you’ve signed up, you’ll need to study and practice.
AWS provides lots of free resources to help you get ready.
You can take practice exams, watch training videos, and read white papers. When you feel ready, you can schedule your exam at a testing center or take it online from home.
Key Takeaways
- AWS Certification validates cloud skills and can enhance career prospects
- Candidates must create an account and choose an exam that matches their expertise
- AWS offers various study materials and practice tests to help prepare for the exam
Getting Started with AWS Certification
AWS Certification helps you prove your cloud skills and boost your career.
There are different types of certifications to match your goals and experience level.
Understanding AWS Certifications
AWS offers different certification levels to fit various career paths.
The Cloud Practitioner cert is great for beginners.
It covers AWS basics and is a good starting point.
For those with more experience, there are role-based certs.
These include Architect, Developer, and Operations.
They focus on specific job skills.
AWS also has specialty certs.
These are for pros who want to show deep knowledge in areas like security or machine learning.
All AWS exams use a scoring scale from 100 to 1,000.
You need to score at least 750 to pass.
Most of the time, you’ll know if you passed right after the test.
Choosing Your AWS Certification Path
Picking the right AWS cert depends on your career goals and current skills.
If you’re new to cloud tech, start with Cloud Practitioner.
It gives a solid foundation.
For IT pros, role-based certs are a good next step.
These align with common job roles:
- Solutions Architect
- Developer
- SysOps Administrator
Each role has different levels: Associate and Professional.
Start with Associate if you’re newer to AWS.
AWS training courses can help you prepare.
They offer online classes, labs, and practice exams.
These resources make it easier to learn AWS and get ready for your cert exam.
Registering and Preparing for Your Exam
Signing up for an AWS Certification exam involves a few key steps.
These include creating an account, scheduling your test, and using study resources.
Let’s look at each part of the process.
Creating an AWS Certification Account
To start your AWS Certification journey, you’ll need to set up an account.
Go to the AWS Certification website and click “Create an AWS Certification Account.” Fill in your details and pick a username and password.
Make sure to use an email you check often.
AWS will send important info about your exam to this address.
Once your account is ready, you can view available exams.
Pick the one you want to take.
Some popular choices are:
- AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
- AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
- AWS Certified Developer – Associate
Scheduling with Pearson VUE
AWS partners with Pearson VUE for exam delivery.
After choosing your exam, you’ll be sent to their site to schedule.
Pick a date and time that works for you.
Exams are often available 24/7.
You can take the test at a test center or online from home.
For online exams, you’ll need:
- A quiet room
- A computer with a webcam
- Good internet
Test centers provide computers and a quiet space.
Choose what feels most comfortable for you.
Utilizing Exam Guides and Training
AWS offers many resources to help you prepare.
Start with the exam guide for your chosen test.
It lists all the topics you need to know.
Free training options include:
- AWS Skill Builder
- AWS Free Tier hands-on practice
- Exam readiness courses
Paid options are also available if you want more in-depth study.
These include instructor-led classes and practice exams.
Set a study schedule.
Give yourself enough time to feel ready.
Most people study for several weeks or months before their exam.
Frequently Asked Questions
Folks often have questions about AWS certification.
Let’s clear up some common ones about getting started, scheduling, costs, requirements, exam locations, and certification paths.
What’s the first step to getting AWS certified?
The first step is to pick a certification that fits your goals.
Check out the AWS Certification website to see the options.
Once you’ve chosen, start studying the exam guide and recommended materials.
Can you walk me through scheduling an AWS exam?
Scheduling an AWS exam is pretty straightforward.
Head to the AWS Certification portal and create an account.
Pick your exam and preferred testing method – online or in-person.
Choose a date and time that works for you.
Most exams are available 24/7.
Online proctoring is an option for all AWS Certification exams.
How much cash do I have to shell out for an AWS certification?
The cost of AWS certifications varies.
Foundation-level exams are usually cheaper than professional-level ones.
Prices can range from about $100 to $300, depending on the certification level.
It’s a good idea to check the AWS Certification website for the most up-to-date pricing info.
Do I need to meet any specific criteria to take an AWS cert exam?
For most AWS certification exams, there are no strict prerequisites.
Anyone can take them.
But AWS does recommend having some hands-on experience with their services before diving in.
Some higher-level certifications might suggest holding a lower-level cert first.
It’s always smart to review the exam guide for any recommended experience.
Where can I find an AWS exam center close to me?
AWS partners with testing centers worldwide.
To find one nearby, visit the AWS Certification portal when scheduling your exam.
Enter your location, and it’ll show you available test centers.
Remember, online proctoring is also an option if you prefer to take the exam from home.
What’s the deal with the different AWS certification paths?
AWS offers various certification paths to suit different roles and skill levels.
They have paths for cloud practitioners, architects, developers, and operations pros.
Each path has different levels – Foundational, Associate, Professional, and Specialty.
You can start with a general certification and then specialize based on your interests and career goals.