AWS offers certifications at several levels, and choosing the right order saves time and money. This guide explains the AWS certification path and recommends a sequence based on your role and experience.
The four levels of AWS certification
- Foundational: Cloud Practitioner and AI Practitioner — for beginners and non-technical roles
- Associate: Solutions Architect, Developer, SysOps/CloudOps Administrator, Data Engineer and Machine Learning Engineer — for practitioners with hands-on experience
- Professional: Solutions Architect – Professional and DevOps Engineer – Professional — for experienced engineers and architects
- Specialty: focused credentials such as Security and Advanced Networking
AWS periodically adds, renames and retires exams, so check the official AWS certification page for the current lineup.
Path 1: Cloud architect
- Cloud Practitioner (optional for experienced IT professionals)
- Solutions Architect – Associate
- Solutions Architect – Professional
- A specialty such as Security or Advanced Networking
Pair this path with real design work — see how to become a cloud architect.
Path 2: DevOps and platform engineering
- Solutions Architect – Associate (broad foundation)
- Developer – Associate or SysOps/CloudOps Administrator – Associate
- DevOps Engineer – Professional
Add Terraform Associate and CKA for tooling skills. See how to become a DevOps engineer.
Path 3: Software developer
- Cloud Practitioner (optional)
- Developer – Associate
- Solutions Architect – Associate
- DevOps Engineer – Professional
Path 4: Data engineering and analytics
- Cloud Practitioner (optional)
- Data Engineer – Associate
- Solutions Architect – Associate for broader design skills
See how to become a data engineer.
Path 5: AI and machine learning
- AI Practitioner
- Machine Learning Engineer – Associate
- Solutions Architect – Associate for architecture fundamentals
See how to become a machine learning engineer.
Path 6: Security
- Solutions Architect – Associate
- Security – Specialty
- Combine with vendor-neutral certifications like Security+ or CISSP
Tips for getting certified efficiently
- Start with Solutions Architect – Associate if you have some IT experience; it is the most valuable single AWS certification for many roles
- Build while you study — a project for each certification strengthens your resume
- Use official practice questions and AWS Skill Builder
- Track recertification dates — most AWS certifications are valid for three years
- List exact certification names on your resume so applicant tracking systems find them
Are AWS certifications worth it?
They help you pass resume filters, structure your learning and signal commitment. They are most valuable combined with hands-on experience. Compare with Azure and Google Cloud in best cloud certifications.
Frequently asked questions
Which AWS certification should I get first?
Beginners often start with Cloud Practitioner. If you have IT experience, Solutions Architect – Associate is usually the best first choice.
Can I skip Cloud Practitioner?
Yes. It is not a prerequisite for associate-level exams.
How long are AWS certifications valid?
Most AWS certifications are valid for three years.
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