Your Guide to AWS Certification Renewal and Recertification

Taylor Karl
/ Categories: Resources, Modern Workplace, Cloud
Your Guide to AWS Certification Renewal and Recertification 1443 0

AWS certifications validate a professional's current skills and demonstrate their dedication to keeping up with evolving cloud technologies. The renewal and recertification process inherent to AWS certifications ensures that certified individuals maintain their skills in line with the latest AWS advancements and best practices. This article aims to guide AWS-certified professionals through the renewal process, covering key aspects such as:

The Value of AWS Certification

The value of AWS certification lies primarily in its recognition as a benchmark for cloud computing skills. As Amazon Web Services is a leading provider in the cloud computing market, having an AWS certification demonstrates to employers that you possess the skills and knowledge to utilize and manage AWS services effectively. There are several key benefits of obtaining an AWS Certification:

AWS Certification Renewal

Do AWS Certifications Expire?

Most technical certifications come with an expiration date, and AWS certifications are no exception. AWS certifications come with a three-year expiration date—for example if you passed your AWS certification exam on January 1, 2024, it would expire on January 1, 2027.

The recertification requirement of your AWS certification ensures that you are keeping up-to-date with the latest AWS technologies, best practices, and industry standards as a professional. By recertifying, you demonstrate that you have maintained your AWS expertise.

What's the process for renewing an AWS certification?

If you have a Foundational or Associate-level certification, you can either take the new version of your current certification’s exam or upgrade to a Professional-level role-based exam. For instance, with an AWS Certified Solutions Architect - Associate, you can retake this exam or take the Professional level exam. Those with Professional- or Specialty-level certifications must retake their current exam version.

Continuing Education Requirements for AWS Certifications

AWS has no requirement for, nor will it accept, continuing education credits for recertification.

Can I extend my AWS certification without retesting?

You are not able to recertify without retesting.

Are there any costs associated with renewing AWS certifications?

The cost of recertifying for AWS certifications varies depending on the certification level. As an AWS-certified professional, you can access a 50% discount voucher for the recertification exam, accessible through your AWS Certification account. The breakdown of current recertification options and pricing is as follows:

Foundational: AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner

Recertification Options

Recertification Cost

Option 1: AWS Cloud Quest: Recertify Cloud Practitioner game-based training.

Option 2: Pass the latest AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam version.

Option 3: Pass any Associate-level exam.

Option 4: Pass any Professional-level exam.

Option 1: Free from November 21, 2023 – May 31, 2024

Options 2, 3, & 4: You can use your discount voucher.

Cost: $50 with discount

Associate: AWS Certified Solutions Architect; AWS Certified Data Engineer; AWS Certified Developer; AWS Certified SysOps Administrator

Recertification Options

Recertification Cost

Option 1a: Pass the latest version of the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate exam.

Option 1b: Pass the latest version of the certification you already have (AWS Certified Data Engineer, Developer, or SysOps Administrator)

Option 2a: Pass the AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional exam.

Option 2b: Pass the AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional exam (for both the AWS Certified Developer and SysOps Administrator).

Options 1 & 2: You can use your discount voucher.

Cost: $75 with discount for an Associate- level exam; $150 with discount for a Professional-level exam.

Professional: AWS Certified DevOps Engineer; AWS Certified Solutions Architect

Recertification Options

Recertification Cost

Option: Pass the latest version of the Professional-level exam corresponding to your current certification.

Option: You can use your discount voucher.

Cost: $150 with discount

Specialty: AWS Certified Advanced Networking; AWS Certified Data Analytics, AWS Certified Database; AWS Certified Machine Learning; AWS Certified Security; AWS Certified SAP on AWS

Recertification Options

Recertification Cost

Option: Pass the latest version of the Specialty-level exam corresponding to your current certification.

Option: You can use your 50% discount voucher.

Cost: $150 with 50% discount

However, it's important to note that these costs are only for the recertifying exams, not for any study materials, training courses, or other exam preparation resources you may need. Because exam prices are subject to change, it’s a good idea to check the official AWS website for the most current pricing information. Your employer may cover the cost of recertification as part of their professional development benefits.

Helpful Resources for AWS Recertification

As we delve into resources for AWS recertification, it's important to note the variety of tools available to ensure your skills and knowledge remain current:

These resources offer a comprehensive guide for effectively preparing for AWS recertification.

Summing it Up

AWS certifications are a testament to your skillset and a way of staying relevant in the ever-evolving field of cloud technology. As you pursue recertification, AWS provides plenty of resources to help you through the recertification process. Ensuring your certification stays valid requires planning, effort, and understanding AWS policies and procedures.

So, keep pushing forward and take advantage of your available resources to ensure your AWS certifications remain valid. Here's to your continued success in the world of AWS!

 

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