Okay, so you want to get Azure certified. Smart move! But here's the problem - Microsoft has like 20 different Azure certifications, and trying to figure out which ones to get and in what order? It's overwhelming. I've been there.
Here's the good news: I'm going to lay out exactly which certifications to pursue, in what order, and what each one actually gets you in terms of career growth and salary. No fluff, just the path forward.
Let's cut through the confusion.
Understanding Azure Certification Levels
Three Certification Tiers
Fundamentals 🌱
- Entry-level, no prerequisites
- Validates foundational cloud knowledge
- Ideal for beginners and non-technical roles
- Does not expire
Associate 🚀
- Intermediate-level, role-based
- Requires hands-on Azure experience
- Career-advancing credentials
- Valid for 1 year (annual renewal required)
Expert 🏆
- Advanced-level, specialized
- Requires Associate-level prerequisite
- Demonstrates deep expertise
- Valid for 1 year (annual renewal required)
Specialty Certifications ⭐
- Focused on specific technologies
- No strict prerequisites
- Validates specialized skills
- Valid for 2 years
Fundamentals Track: Your Starting Point
Azure Fundamentals (AZ-900)
Alright, this is where everyone should start. And before you ask - yes, even if you have IT experience. Here's why:
Perfect For:
- You're brand new to cloud (no shame in that!)
- You work in sales/business and need to talk intelligently about Azure
- You're exploring whether cloud is for you before diving deep
What You'll Actually Learn:
- Cloud basics (without the confusing jargon)
- What Azure actually offers and when to use what
- Pricing models (so you don't accidentally rack up a $10K bill)
- Security 101 and compliance stuff
The Real Deal: 2-4 weeks if you're focused. $99. Never expires (which is nice).
👉 Start with AZ-900 ← seriously, start here
AI Fundamentals (AI-900)
Perfect For:
- Those interested in AI/ML
- Data professionals exploring AI
- Business analysts understanding AI capabilities
What You'll Learn:
- AI and machine learning concepts
- Azure AI services (Computer Vision, NLP, Speech)
- Responsible AI principles
- AI workload considerations
Study Time: 2-4 weeks Cost: $99 USD
Data Fundamentals (DP-900)
Perfect For:
- Aspiring data professionals
- Business intelligence analysts
- Database administrators transitioning to cloud
What You'll Learn:
- Core data concepts
- Relational vs non-relational data
- Analytics workloads
- Azure data services
Study Time: 2-3 weeks Cost: $99 USD
Security, Compliance, and Identity Fundamentals (SC-900)
Perfect For:
- Security professionals new to cloud
- Compliance officers
- Identity and access management roles
What You'll Learn:
- Security concepts and methodologies
- Microsoft identity and access solutions
- Security capabilities across Microsoft 365
- Compliance management
Study Time: 2-3 weeks Cost: $99 USD
Associate Track: Career Advancement
Administrator Path
Azure Administrator Associate (AZ-104)
The most popular Azure certification for IT professionals.
Prerequisites:
- 6+ months Azure administration experience (recommended)
- AZ-900 (recommended but not required)
What You'll Learn:
- Manage Azure identities and governance
- Implement and manage storage
- Deploy and manage compute resources
- Configure and manage virtual networking
- Monitor and back up Azure resources
Exam Details:
- Duration: 120 minutes
- Questions: 40-60
- Passing Score: 700/1000
- Cost: $165 USD
Career Roles:
- Azure Administrator
- Cloud Administrator
- Infrastructure Engineer
Salary Range: $75K-$115K
Developer Path
Azure Developer Associate (AZ-204)
For developers building cloud applications.
Prerequisites:
- 1-2 years development experience
- Proficiency in Azure-supported language (C#, Python, JavaScript)
What You'll Learn:
- Develop Azure compute solutions
- Develop for Azure storage
- Implement Azure security
- Monitor, troubleshoot, and optimize solutions
- Connect to and consume Azure services
Exam Details:
- Duration: 120 minutes
- Questions: 40-60
- Passing Score: 700/1000
- Cost: $165 USD
Career Roles:
- Cloud Developer
- Azure Solutions Developer
- Full-Stack Developer (Azure focus)
Salary Range: $85K-$130K
AI Engineer Path
Azure AI Engineer Associate (AI-102)
This is where things get really interesting (and lucrative). If you're into AI/ML, this cert is pure gold right now.
Prerequisites:
- Know Python or C# (pick your poison)
- Basic Azure knowledge helps a ton
- AI-900 recommended (gives you the foundations)
What You'll Master:
- Building actual AI solutions (not just theory)
- Computer vision implementations
- Natural language processing with Azure OpenAI 🔥
- Knowledge mining and document processing
- NEW: Generative AI solutions (this is the hot stuff in 2025)
The Numbers:
- 120 minutes, 40-60 questions
- Pass at 700/1000
- $165 USD
Real Talk About Careers:
- AI Engineer: $95K-$150K (and climbing fast)
- Machine Learning Engineer: Similar range
- AI Solutions Architect: $120K-$170K
This is probably the fastest-growing salary range in tech right now. Companies are desperate for people who can actually implement AI solutions.
Data Engineer Path
Azure Data Engineer Associate (DP-203)
For professionals who integrate, transform, and consolidate data.
Prerequisites:
- Data processing experience
- Understanding of data storage technologies
- DP-900 (recommended)
What You'll Learn:
- Design and implement data storage
- Design and develop data processing
- Design and implement data security
- Monitor and optimize data solutions
Exam Details:
- Duration: 120 minutes
- Questions: 40-60
- Passing Score: 700/1000
- Cost: $165 USD
Career Roles:
- Data Engineer
- Data Platform Engineer
- Analytics Engineer
Salary Range: $90K-$140K
Security Engineer Path
Azure Security Engineer Associate (AZ-500)
Implements security controls and threat protection.
Prerequisites:
- Understanding of Azure administration (AZ-104 recommended)
- Experience with security best practices
- SC-900 (recommended)
What You'll Learn:
- Manage identity and access
- Implement platform protection
- Manage security operations
- Secure data and applications
Exam Details:
- Duration: 120 minutes
- Questions: 40-60
- Passing Score: 700/1000
- Cost: $165 USD
Career Roles:
- Security Engineer
- Cloud Security Specialist
- Security Architect
Salary Range: $95K-$145K
Network Engineer Path
Azure Network Engineer Associate (AZ-700)
Focuses on Azure networking solutions.
Prerequisites:
- Networking fundamentals
- Azure administration basics
- AZ-104 (recommended)
What You'll Learn:
- Design and implement core networking infrastructure
- Design and implement routing
- Secure and monitor networks
- Design and implement Private Access to Azure Services
Exam Details:
- Duration: 120 minutes
- Questions: 40-60
- Passing Score: 700/1000
- Cost: $165 USD
Career Roles:
- Network Engineer
- Cloud Network Architect
- Infrastructure Engineer
Salary Range: $85K-$135K
Expert Track: Mastering Azure
Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305)
The pinnacle of Azure architecture credentials.
Prerequisites:
- Required: AZ-104 (Azure Administrator Associate)
- Recommended: 2+ years of Azure architecture experience
What You'll Learn:
- Design identity, governance, and monitoring solutions
- Design data storage solutions
- Design business continuity solutions
- Design infrastructure solutions
Exam Details:
- Duration: 120 minutes
- Questions: 40-60
- Passing Score: 700/1000
- Cost: $165 USD
Career Roles:
- Solutions Architect
- Cloud Architect
- Technical Architect
Salary Range: $120K-$180K+
Azure DevOps Engineer Expert (AZ-400)
Combines development and operations expertise.
Prerequisites:
- Required: AZ-104 OR AZ-204
- DevOps practices experience
What You'll Learn:
- Design and implement processes and communications
- Design and implement source control
- Design and implement build and release pipelines
- Develop security and compliance plan
- Implement instrumentation strategy
Exam Details:
- Duration: 180 minutes
- Questions: 40-60
- Passing Score: 700/1000
- Cost: $165 USD
Career Roles:
- DevOps Engineer
- Site Reliability Engineer (SRE)
- Release Manager
Salary Range: $110K-$165K
Specialty Certifications
Azure Cosmos DB Developer Specialty (DP-420)
Focus: Building applications using Azure Cosmos DB
Prerequisites:
- Development experience
- Understanding of Cosmos DB concepts
Study Time: 4-6 weeks Cost: $165 USD
Azure for SAP Workloads Specialty (AZ-120)
Focus: Migrating and operating SAP solutions on Azure
Prerequisites:
- SAP experience
- Azure infrastructure knowledge
Study Time: 6-8 weeks Cost: $165 USD
Your Path Forward (Let's Get Real)
Path 1: Infrastructure Professional
The Classic Route: Beginner → Professional → Expert
This is the path I took, and honestly, it worked perfectly:
- AZ-900 (1 month) - Learn to walk
- AZ-104 (2-3 months) - Learn to run
- AZ-700 OR AZ-500 (2-3 months) - Pick your specialty: networking or security
- AZ-305 (3-4 months) - Become the architect
Total Time Investment: 8-12 months of focused study Career Outcome: You'll be a legit Azure Solutions Architect Salary Target: $120K-$180K+ (yes, really)
This path makes you incredibly versatile. You understand Azure inside-out, can design complex solutions, and have deep knowledge in either networking or security.
Path 2: Developer to Architect
- AZ-900 (Azure Fundamentals) - 1 month
- AZ-204 (Azure Developer) - 2-3 months
- AZ-400 (DevOps Engineer) - 2-3 months
- AZ-104 (Azure Administrator) - 2 months
- AZ-305 (Solutions Architect) - 3 months
Total Timeline: 10-12 months Career Outcome: Cloud Solutions Architect with DevOps expertise Salary Target: $130K-$190K+
Path 3: AI/ML Specialist
- AZ-900 (Azure Fundamentals) - 1 month
- AI-900 (AI Fundamentals) - 1 month
- DP-900 (Data Fundamentals) - 1 month
- AI-102 (AI Engineer) - 3-4 months
- DP-203 (Data Engineer) - 3-4 months
Total Timeline: 9-12 months Career Outcome: Azure AI/ML Engineer Salary Target: $110K-$170K+
Path 4: Security Specialist
- AZ-900 (Azure Fundamentals) - 1 month
- SC-900 (Security Fundamentals) - 1 month
- AZ-104 (Azure Administrator) - 2-3 months
- AZ-500 (Security Engineer) - 2-3 months
- SC-100 (Cybersecurity Architect) - 3 months
Total Timeline: 9-11 months Career Outcome: Azure Security Architect Salary Target: $125K-$185K+
Study Strategy for Success
General Preparation Timeline
Associate-Level Certifications:
- With experience: 6-8 weeks (10-15 hours/week)
- Career changers: 10-12 weeks (15-20 hours/week)
Expert-Level Certifications:
- With prerequisite: 8-12 weeks (15-20 hours/week)
Essential Study Resources
Microsoft Official:
- Microsoft Learn (free, comprehensive learning paths)
- Microsoft Documentation
- Microsoft Hands-on Labs
Our Resources:
- Free practice questions for each certification
- Flashcards and study notes
- Exam tips and strategies
Community Resources:
- Azure Friday videos
- John Savill's Technical Training
- A Cloud Guru / Pluralsight courses
Hands-On Practice
Critical for Success:
- Create free Azure account ($200 credit)
- Build projects that mirror exam scenarios
- Practice in Azure Portal, PowerShell, and CLI
- Use Azure Sandbox environments
Certification Renewal
Important Changes in 2025
Renewal Requirements:
- Associate and Expert certifications: Renew annually
- Complete free renewal assessment 6 months before expiration
- Stay current with Azure features and updates
Fundamentals:
- Do not expire
- No renewal required
Save Some Cash (Trust Me On These)
How to Not Break the Bank
Look, these certifications add up fast. Here's how to be smart about it:
- Microsoft ESI Bundle - $165 gets you the exam, a free retake (lifesaver!), AND a practice test. Way better deal than paying $165 twice if you fail.
- Learning Partner Deals - Check Microsoft's partner sites for bundle discounts. Sometimes you can stack savings.
- Virtual Training Days - Here's a secret: Attend Microsoft's free training days, get a FREE exam voucher. Literally free cert if you pass. Check their events page regularly.
- Student Discount - Got a .edu email? Use it. Significant discounts available.
Resources That Cost Zero Dollars
- Microsoft Learn - Their entire training platform. Free. Comprehensive. Use it.
- Azure Free Tier - $200 in credits, 12 months of services. Build real stuff without spending real money.
- YouTube - Tons of quality cert prep content (though our practice questions are better 😉)
- Our Study Materials - Practice questions, notes, flashcards. All free. Because we're cool like that.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which Azure certification should I start with? A: Start with AZ-900 if you're new to cloud, then progress to AZ-104 for administration or AZ-204 for development based on your career goals.
Q: Do I need to renew my Azure certifications? A: Yes, Associate and Expert certifications must be renewed annually through free assessments. Fundamentals don't expire.
Q: Can I skip fundamentals and go straight to Associate? A: Yes, there are no strict prerequisites, but fundamentals provide solid foundation and boost confidence.
Q: How long does it take to become an Azure Solutions Architect? A: Following the recommended path (AZ-900 → AZ-104 → AZ-305), expect 8-12 months with consistent study.
Q: Are Azure certifications worth it in 2025? A: Absolutely. Azure skills are in high demand, and certifications significantly improve job prospects and earning potential.
The Bottom Line
Here's what I wish someone had told me when I started: Azure certifications are an investment that actually pays off. Like, tangibly, in-your-paycheck pays off.
Yes, it takes time - anywhere from 8 months to a year to get from zero to Solutions Architect. Yes, the exams are challenging. And yes, you'll need to renew most of them annually (which is honestly not that bad - free online assessments).
But here's the thing: Azure skills are in ridiculous demand. Every company is moving to cloud. Every company needs people who know Azure. And certifications are still the fastest way to prove you know your stuff.
Pick your path based on what actually interests you. Don't chase the highest salary if you hate security work. Don't force yourself into AI if data makes you want to cry. Pick what excites you, and the money will follow.
Ready to start? Check out our complete study materials - practice questions that mirror real exams, study guides that don't waste your time, and a community of people on the same journey:
You've got this. Thousands of people pass these exams every year. Many started exactly where you are now. Let's get you certified! 🚀
Last Updated: November 15, 2025 Real advice from real experience Certification info current as of November 2025
