Question 1

Which Databricks certification should I start with?

Accepted Answer

Start with the Databricks Certified Data Engineer Associate ($200, 45 scored questions, 90 minutes). It validates foundational skills in using Databricks for ETL, data pipelines, and Delta Lake. Candidates should have 6+ months of hands-on Databricks experience. For data analysts, the Data Analyst Associate is also available at the same price.

Question 2

Do Databricks certifications expire?

Accepted Answer

Yes, all Databricks certifications are valid for 2 years from the pass date. Recertification requires taking the full current version of the exam. You cannot recertify through continuing education credits — you must pass the exam again.

Question 3

Does Databricks offer online proctoring?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Databricks certification exams are available both online (proctored) and at test centers. Online proctoring requires a webcam, microphone, and screen-sharing. Exams are delivered through a dedicated proctoring platform. Test center delivery is also available through Pearson VUE.

Question 4

What are the passing scores and exam formats?

Accepted Answer

Associate exams: 45 scored multiple-choice questions, 90 minutes. Professional exams: 59 scored multiple-choice questions, 120 minutes. There is no fixed passing score published, but the pass threshold is typically around 70% correct. Results are available immediately after the exam.

Question 5

How much do Databricks certification exams cost?

Accepted Answer

All Databricks certification exams cost $200 USD per attempt, whether Associate or Professional level. Self-paced training courses are typically free. Instructor-led training is paid separately. Retakes also cost $200 each.

Question 6

Do I need the Associate before the Professional?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Databricks requires an active Associate certification before you can register for the Professional exam in the same track. For the Data Engineer track, you must pass the Data Engineer Associate before attempting Data Engineer Professional. The Professional exam is significantly harder, assuming 1+ years of production Databricks experience.

Question 7

What is the retake policy for Databricks exams?

Accepted Answer

If you fail, you must wait 14 days before retaking the exam. Each retake costs the full $200 fee. There is no limit on the number of retakes, but the 14-day waiting period applies each time. Plan carefully and use the free self-paced training to prepare.

Exam	Name	Level	PDF questions	Free samples
Certified Associate Developer for Apache Spark	Certified Associate Developer for Apache Spark	Associate	164	free samples
Certified Data Analyst Associate	Certified Data Analyst Associate	Associate	45	free samples
Certified Data Engineer Associate	Certified Data Engineer Associate	Associate	134	free samples
Certified Generative AI Engineer Associate	Certified Generative AI Engineer Associate	Associate	80	free samples
Certified Machine Learning Associate	Certified Machine Learning Associate	Associate	30	free samples
Certified Data Engineer Professional	Certified Data Engineer Professional	Professional	137	free samples
Certified Machine Learning Professional	Certified Machine Learning Professional	Professional	62	free samples

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