AWS Certification Exam Cost in 2026: Complete Price List, Discounts & Renewal Fees
- CertiMaan
- 3 days ago
- 15 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
AWS Certification Exam Cost :
The AWS certification exam cost depends on the certification level you choose. As of 2026, AWS certification exams are categorized into Foundational, Associate, Professional, and Specialty levels, each with its own exam fee. The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam costs $100 USD, Associate-level certifications cost $150 USD, while Professional and Specialty certifications cost $300 USD per attempt. These exams are delivered through Pearson VUE testing centers and online proctored testing.
For candidates in India and other countries, the final amount may vary slightly due to applicable taxes, currency conversion rates, and local payment processing charges. AWS certifications remain valid for three years, and certified professionals may also be eligible for certification benefits, including discounts on future AWS certification exams.
AWS Certification Cost by Certification Level
AWS Certification Level | Exam Cost (USD) |
Foundational | $100 |
Associate | $150 |
Professional | $300 |
Specialty | $300 |
If you are starting your cloud journey, expect to pay $100 for the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner exam. Most Associate-level AWS certifications cost $150, while advanced Professional and Specialty certifications cost $300 per exam attempt.
AWS Certification Cost by Certification Level
AWS offers certifications across multiple skill levels, ranging from beginner-friendly foundational exams to advanced professional and specialty certifications. The AWS certification exam cost varies depending on the complexity of the certification and the expertise required. The table below provides a quick overview of AWS certification levels, exam fees, and the type of professionals each certification is designed for.
Certification Level | Exam Cost (USD) | Experience Level | Best For |
Foundational | $100 | Beginner | Individuals new to AWS and cloud computing |
Associate | $150 | Intermediate | Cloud practitioners, developers, and administrators |
Professional | $300 | Advanced | Experienced AWS architects and DevOps professionals |
Specialty | $300 | Advanced/Specialized | Security, networking, machine learning, and data specialists |
Foundational Certifications ($100)
Ideal for beginners looking to understand AWS Cloud concepts, services, pricing models, and security fundamentals.
Associate Certifications ($150)
Designed for professionals who have practical experience working with AWS services and cloud environments.
Professional Certifications ($300)
Targeted at experienced cloud professionals responsible for designing and managing large-scale AWS solutions.
Specialty Certifications ($300)
Focused on niche areas such as Security, Advanced Networking, Machine Learning, Data Analytics, and other specialized cloud domains.
AWS certification costs vary by certification level, ranging from $100 for Foundational exams to $300 for Professional and Specialty certifications.
AWS Certification Price List by Exam
AWS currently offers certifications across Foundational, Associate, Professional, and Specialty levels. While certification costs are based on the certification level, many candidates prefer to know the exact exam fee for a specific AWS certification. The table below provides the latest AWS certification price list, including exam codes, certification levels, exam durations, and official registration fees.
Complete AWS Certification Exam Price List ( 2026 )
Active AWS Certifications
AWS Certification | Exam Code | Level | Duration | Exam Cost (USD) |
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner | CLF-C02 | Foundational | 90 Minutes | $100 |
AWS Certified AI Practitioner | AIF-C01 | Foundational | 90 Minutes | $100 |
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate | SAA-C03 | Associate | 130 Minutes | $150 |
AWS Certified Developer – Associate | DVA-C02 | Associate | 130 Minutes | $150 |
AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate | SOA-C02 | Associate | 130 Minutes | $150 |
AWS Certified Data Engineer – Associate | DEA-C01 | Associate | 130 Minutes | $150 |
AWS Certified Machine Learning Engineer – Associate | MLA-C01 | Associate | 130 Minutes | $150 |
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional | SAP-C02 | Professional | 180 Minutes | $300 |
AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional | DOP-C02 | Professional | 180 Minutes | $300 |
AWS Certified Generative AI Developer - Professional | AIP-C01 | Professional | 180 Minutes | $300 |
AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty | ANS-C01 | Specialty | 170 Minutes | $300 |
AWS Certified Security – Specialty | SCS-C02 | Specialty | 170 Minutes | $300 |
Retired AWS Certifications
AWS Certification | Exam Code | Level | Duration | Exam Cost (USD) |
AWS Certified Machine Learning – Specialty* | MLS-C01 | Specialty | --- | $300 |
AWS Certified Data Analytics – Specialty* | DAS-C01 | Specialty | --- | $300 |
AWS Certification Cost Comparison
Certification Level | Number of Active Certifications | Cost Per Exam |
Foundational | 2 | $100 |
Associate | 5 | $150 |
Professional | 3 | $300 |
Specialty | 2 | $300 |
Most Popular AWS Certifications and Their Costs
Certification | Cost |
AWS Cloud Practitioner | $100 |
AWS Solutions Architect Associate | $150 |
AWS Developer Associate | $150 |
AWS Solutions Architect Professional | $300 |
AWS Security Specialty | $300 |
AWS certification exam fees vary by certification type, ranging from $100 for Foundational exams to $300 for Professional and Specialty certifications.
AWS Certification Exam Cost in India
AWS certification exam fees are officially published in US Dollars ( USD ). However, candidates in India often want to know the approximate cost in Indian Rupees ( INR ) before registering for an exam. The final amount payable may vary based on currency exchange rates, applicable taxes, and the payment processing policies of the exam delivery provider. The table below provides an estimated AWS certification exam cost in India based on current exchange rates.
AWS Certification Cost in India (Approximate)
Certification Level | Official Fee (USD) | Approximate Cost (INR) |
Foundational | $100 | ₹9,000 – ₹9,600 |
Associate | $150 | ₹13,500 – ₹14,400 |
Professional | $300 | ₹27,000 – ₹28,800 |
Specialty | $300 | ₹27,000 – ₹28,800 |
AWS Certification Fees in India by Popular Exams
AWS Certification | Approximate Cost (INR) |
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner | ₹9,000 – ₹9,600 |
AWS Certified AI Practitioner | ₹9,000 – ₹9,600 |
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate | ₹13,500 – ₹14,400 |
AWS Certified Developer – Associate | ₹13,500 – ₹14,400 |
AWS Certified SysOps Administrator – Associate | ₹13,500 – ₹14,400 |
AWS Certified Data Engineer – Associate | ₹13,500 – ₹14,400 |
AWS Certified Machine Learning Engineer – Associate | ₹13,500 – ₹14,400 |
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional | ₹27,000 – ₹28,800 |
AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional | ₹27,000 – ₹28,800 |
AWS Certified Generative AI Developer - Professional | ₹27,000 – ₹28,800 |
AWS Certified Security – Specialty | ₹27,000 – ₹28,800 |
AWS Certified Advanced Networking – Specialty | ₹27,000 – ₹28,800 |
Why Does AWS Certification Cost Vary in India?
Currency Exchange Rates
AWS exam fees are listed in USD. The final INR amount depends on the exchange rate at the time of payment.
Applicable Taxes
GST and other local taxes may increase the final amount charged during checkout.
Exam Delivery Provider
AWS certification exams are delivered through Pearson VUE. Pricing and taxes may differ slightly based on the registration method and payment location.
Bank Charges
Some banks may apply foreign currency conversion or international transaction charges.
How Much Does AWS Certification Cost in India?
Most AWS certifications cost between ₹9,000 and ₹28,800, depending on the certification level. Foundational exams are the most affordable, while Professional and Specialty certifications require a higher investment due to their advanced nature.
Additional Costs Before Taking AWS Certification
While the AWS certification exam fee is the primary cost most candidates consider, there may be additional expenses involved in preparing for the exam. Depending on your learning approach, you may choose to invest in training courses, hands-on labs, practice exams, study materials, or certification preparation platforms. Understanding these potential costs can help you create a realistic budget and avoid unexpected expenses during your certification journey.
Additional Costs You Should Consider Before AWS Certification
Cost Category | Mandatory or Optional | Estimated Cost |
AWS Certification Exam Fee | Mandatory | $100 – $300 |
AWS Skill Builder Subscription | Optional | $29/month or $449/year |
Official Practice Exams | Optional | Included with eligible Skill Builder subscriptions |
Training Courses | Optional | Varies by provider |
Hands-On Labs | Optional | Free to Paid |
Practice Tests & Mock Exams | Optional | Varies by platform |
Exam Retake Fee | Only if you fail | Same as original exam fee |
Currency Conversion & Taxes | Depends on location | Varies |
AWS Skill Builder currently offers an Individual subscription starting at $29 per month and an annual subscription at $449 per year, which includes enhanced certification preparation resources, hands-on labs, official practice exams, and learning paths.
AWS Skill Builder Subscription Cost
AWS provides free certification preparation resources through AWS Skill Builder, including practice question sets and exam preparation courses. Candidates who want access to official practice exams, additional labs, AWS Cloud Quest, and advanced exam preparation materials can subscribe to AWS Skill Builder.
AWS Skill Builder Pricing
Subscription Type | Cost |
Monthly Individual Plan | $29/month |
Annual Individual Plan | $449/year |
Team Subscription | $449 per seat/year |
AWS Skill Builder subscriptions unlock official practice exams, additional hands-on labs, and guided certification preparation resources.
Training and Learning Costs
Many candidates prepare using free AWS resources, while others choose instructor-led training, online courses, or certification bootcamps.
Typical Training Options
Training Method | Estimated Cost |
AWS Free Training Resources | Free |
AWS Skill Builder | $29/month |
Self-Paced Online Courses | Varies |
Instructor-Led Training | Varies |
Corporate Training Programs | Varies |
AWS confirms that certification candidates can access free exam preparation resources, including practice question sets and exam preparation courses through AWS Skill Builder.
Exam Retake Cost
If a candidate does not pass an AWS certification exam, a new registration fee must be paid for the next attempt.
Certification Level | Retake Cost |
Foundational | $100 |
Associate | $150 |
Professional | $300 |
Specialty | $300 |
In most cases, the retake fee is the same as the original exam fee.
Hidden Costs Candidates Often Forget
Many candidates focus only on the exam registration fee and overlook additional expenses such as:
Internet and system setup for online proctored exams
Practice tests and mock exams
Hands-on lab environments
Currency conversion charges
GST and local taxes
Retake fees if the first attempt is unsuccessful
Planning for these costs in advance can help avoid unexpected expenses during your certification journey.
What Is the Real Cost of AWS Certification?
The actual cost of becoming AWS certified can be higher than the exam fee alone. Depending on your preparation strategy, you may spend additional money on training, practice exams, hands-on labs, subscriptions, and retakes. Candidates who use only AWS free resources may keep costs low, while those pursuing structured preparation programs may invest significantly more.
How to Improve Your Chances of Passing the AWS Certification Exam ?
Preparing for an AWS certification exam requires more than just understanding cloud concepts. Candidates often need a structured study plan, hands-on practice, exam-focused preparation, and access to realistic practice questions. A strategic preparation approach can help reduce exam anxiety, improve confidence, and increase the likelihood of success on the first attempt.
Common Challenges AWS Certification Candidates Face
Challenge | Impact |
Large AWS syllabus | Difficult to know where to focus |
Lack of hands-on experience | Lower confidence in scenario-based questions |
Limited preparation time | Incomplete exam readiness |
Difficulty understanding exam pattern | Reduced performance during the exam |
Fear of failing and paying again | Increased certification cost |
Effective Ways to Prepare for AWS Certification
Follow a Structured Learning Path
Study the official AWS exam guide and focus on the domains that carry the highest weight.
Use Practice Questions
Practice helps identify knowledge gaps and improves time management.
Gain Hands-On Experience
Working with AWS services in real-world scenarios improves exam readiness.
Review Exam Objectives
Understanding the exam blueprint helps prioritize important topics.
Take Mock Exams
Mock exams simulate the actual testing environment and improve confidence.
AWS Certification Exam Support from CertiMaan
CertiMaan provides certification-focused preparation support for professionals pursuing AWS certifications. Whether you are preparing for AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, Solutions Architect Associate, Developer Associate, Security Specialty, or Professional-level certifications, structured preparation can help you stay focused on the most relevant exam topics.
Our AWS certification preparation support includes:
Exam-focused preparation guidance
Practice questions and mock assessments
Certification study strategies
Topic-wise revision support
Assistance in identifying weak areas
Resources designed to improve exam readiness
The goal is to help candidates prepare efficiently, reduce unnecessary study time, and approach the certification exam with greater confidence.
Ready to Prepare for Your AWS Certification ?
Get exam-focused AWS certification preparation support from CertiMaan and build a smarter strategy for your certification journey.
AWS Certification Discount Vouchers and Savings Opportunities
AWS offers several certification benefits that can help candidates reduce their overall certification expenses. One of the most valuable benefits is the AWS Certification discount voucher, which can lower the cost of future certification exams. Understanding these savings opportunities can help you plan your certification journey more efficiently and maximize your return on investment.
Does AWS Offer Certification Discount Vouchers?
Yes. AWS Certified individuals may receive a 50% discount voucher that can be applied toward a future AWS Certification exam. This benefit is available through the AWS Certification Benefits program and can significantly reduce the cost of earning additional AWS certifications.
AWS Certification Discount Voucher Benefits
Benefit | Description |
50% Exam Discount | Eligible AWS Certified individuals may receive a 50% discount on a future certification exam |
Digital Certification Badge | Share certification achievements professionally |
AWS Certified Community Access | Access certification-related resources and updates |
Exam Preparation Resources | Additional learning and preparation materials |
Career Advancement Opportunities | Showcase validated AWS cloud skills |
Example of AWS Certification Savings
Certification Level | Standard Fee | With 50% Voucher |
Foundational | $100 | $50 |
Associate | $150 | $75 |
Professional | $300 | $150 |
Specialty | $300 | $150 |
How to Get an AWS Certification Discount Voucher
Step 1: Earn an AWS Certification
Pass any active AWS certification exam.
Step 2: Access AWS Certification Benefits
Log in to your AWS Certification account.
Step 3: View Available Benefits
Navigate to the AWS Certification Benefits section.
Step 4: Redeem Your Voucher
Apply the discount code during exam registration.
Can You Use Multiple AWS Discount Vouchers?
Generally, AWS certification vouchers cannot be combined with other discount vouchers for the same exam registration. Candidates should always review the latest AWS Certification Benefits terms before booking an exam.
How Much Can You Save with an AWS Certification Voucher?
AWS certification discount vouchers can significantly reduce exam costs. Candidates who receive a 50% voucher may save up to $150 on Professional and Specialty certifications. For professionals pursuing multiple AWS certifications, these savings can substantially lower the overall certification budget.
AWS Certification Renewal Cost
AWS certifications are not lifetime credentials. To maintain certification status and demonstrate current cloud expertise, AWS certified professionals must renew their certifications periodically. Understanding the AWS certification validity period, recertification process, and renewal costs can help candidates plan their long-term certification journey and avoid unexpected expenses.
How Long Is an AWS Certification Valid?
AWS certifications remain valid for three years from the date you earn the certification.
After the validity period expires:
Your certification status becomes inactive.
Your digital badge may no longer reflect an active certification.
Employers may view the certification as expired.
You may need to recertify to maintain current AWS credentials.
Certification Level | Validity Period |
Foundational | 3 Years |
Associate | 3 Years |
Professional | 3 Years |
Specialty | 3 Years |
AWS Recertification Process
To maintain an active AWS certification, candidates typically need to pass the latest version of the certification exam before the certification expires.
AWS Certification Renewal Cost
The renewal cost is generally the same as the standard exam registration fee. However, AWS often provides certification benefits that may reduce the amount paid for future exams.
Certification Level | Standard Exam Cost | Potential Cost with 50% Voucher |
Foundational | $100 | $50 |
Associate | $150 | $75 |
Professional | $300 | $150 |
Specialty | $300 | $150 |
Can You Use an AWS Certification Voucher for Renewal?
Yes. AWS certified professionals may receive certification benefits, including a 50% discount voucher that can be applied toward eligible future certification exams.
Certification Level | Possible Savings |
Foundational | Up to $50 |
Associate | Up to $75 |
Professional | Up to $150 |
Specialty | Up to $150 |
For professionals pursuing multiple certifications or renewing advanced certifications, these savings can significantly reduce long-term certification costs.
Is AWS Certification Renewal Worth the Cost?
Renewing an AWS certification helps professionals maintain an active credential, stay aligned with the latest AWS services and best practices, and demonstrate ongoing cloud expertise to employers. While renewal requires additional investment, certification benefits such as discount vouchers can help reduce recertification costs.
Which AWS Certification Is Worth the Cost?
Choosing the right AWS certification is not just about exam fees. The best certification depends on your career goals, technical background, and the type of cloud role you want to pursue. While some certifications provide a broad cloud foundation, others focus on specialized areas such as security, DevOps, data engineering, and Generative AI.
Best AWS Certifications Based on Career Goals
Career Goal | Recommended AWS Certification | Exam Cost |
Beginner Cloud Career | $100 | |
Cloud Engineer Path | AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate | $150 |
Software Developer Path | AWS Certified Developer – Associate | $150 |
Data Engineering Career | AWS Certified Data Engineer – Associate | $150 |
AI & Machine Learning Career | AWS Certified Machine Learning Engineer – Associate | $150 |
Generative AI Developer Career | AWS Certified Generative AI Developer – Professional | $300 |
DevOps Engineer Path | AWS Certified DevOps Engineer – Professional | $300 |
Cloud Security Career | AWS Certified Security – Specialty | $300 |
Cloud Architect Career | AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional | $300 |
Best AWS Certification for Beginners
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner
Cloud Practitioner remains the most affordable AWS certification and serves as an excellent starting point for individuals new to cloud computing. It covers AWS fundamentals, cloud concepts, pricing models, and security basics.
Why It Offers Good Value
Lowest exam cost
Beginner-friendly syllabus
Strong foundation for advanced AWS certifications
Ideal for non-technical and technical professionals
Best AWS Certification for Maximum Career ROI
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate
For many professionals, Solutions Architect Associate provides the best balance between exam cost, industry recognition, and career opportunities.
Why It Delivers High ROI
Highly recognized across the cloud industry
Suitable for multiple AWS career paths
Strong demand among employers
Excellent stepping stone toward Professional certifications
Best AWS Certification for Generative AI Professionals
AWS Certified Generative AI Developer – Professional
As organizations increasingly adopt Generative AI technologies, AWS introduced the AWS Certified Generative AI Developer – Professional certification to validate advanced skills in designing, developing, and deploying Generative AI applications using AWS services.
Why It Is Worth the Cost
Focuses on one of the fastest-growing technology domains
Covers Amazon Bedrock, foundation models, prompt engineering, and AI application development
Helps demonstrate expertise in enterprise Generative AI solutions
Valuable for developers, AI engineers, solution architects, and cloud professionals working with AI workloads
Best For
Generative AI Developers
AI Application Engineers
Cloud Developers
Machine Learning Engineers
AWS Solution Architects implementing AI solutions
Highest Value AWS Certification for Experienced Professionals
AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional
Although it has a higher exam fee, this certification remains one of the most respected AWS credentials for senior cloud architects and enterprise solution designers.
Best For
Senior Cloud Architects
Enterprise Consultants
AWS Practice Leads
Cloud Transformation Specialists
Which AWS Certification Provides the Best Value for Money?
The answer depends on your career objectives:
Objective | Best Value Certification |
Lowest Cost Entry Point | AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner |
Best Overall Career ROI | AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate |
Fastest Growing Technology Area | AWS Certified Generative AI Developer – Professional |
Best Advanced Cloud Credential | AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Professional |
Best Security-Focused Certification | AWS Certified Security – Specialty |
For professionals planning a long-term cloud career, Solutions Architect Associate continues to offer exceptional value. However, candidates targeting AI-focused roles should strongly consider the AWS Certified Generative AI Developer – Professional certification due to the rapidly growing demand for Generative AI skills across industries.
Start Your AWS Certification Journey with CertiMaan
Earning an AWS certification can open doors to exciting opportunities in cloud computing, architecture, DevOps, security, data engineering, and Generative AI. However, success requires the right preparation strategy, quality practice resources, and a clear understanding of the exam objectives.
Whether you're preparing for AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner, Solutions Architect Associate, Developer Associate, DevOps Engineer Professional, Security Specialty, or AWS Certified Generative AI Developer – Professional, a structured preparation approach can help you maximize your chances of success while reducing the risk of costly retakes.
At CertiMaan, we provide certification-focused exam support designed to help professionals prepare smarter, practice effectively, and approach AWS certification exams with confidence.
Why Choose CertiMaan for AWS Certification Exam Support?
Key Benefits
✅ Exam-Focused Preparation Support
✅ Practice Questions & Mock Assessments
✅ Certification Study Strategy Guidance
✅ Topic-Wise Revision Assistance
✅ Support for Multiple AWS Certifications
✅ Resources Designed to Improve Exam Readiness
✅ Guidance for First-Attempt Success
Ready to Take the Next Step?
If you're planning to pursue an AWS certification and want expert preparation support, connect with the CertiMaan team today.
Helpful AWS Certification Resources
Before scheduling your exam, explore our certification preparation resources:
AWS Certification Exam Cost FAQs
How much does an AWS certification exam cost?
AWS certification exam costs vary by certification level. Foundational certifications typically cost $100, Associate certifications cost $150, and Professional and Specialty certifications cost $300 per exam.
What is the AWS Certification Exam Cost in India?
AWS certification fees are officially listed in USD. Depending on exchange rates, taxes, and payment charges, candidates in India can expect to pay approximately ₹8,000–₹9,000 for Foundational exams, ₹12,000–₹14,000 for Associate exams, and ₹25,000–₹28,000 for Professional and Specialty certifications.
Which AWS certification is the cheapest?
AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner and AWS Certified AI Practitioner are currently among the most affordable AWS certifications, with an exam fee of $100.
Can I get a discount on AWS certification exams?
Yes. AWS certified professionals may receive certification benefits that include a 50% discount voucher for eligible future AWS certification exams. Promotional discounts may also be available through AWS Training and Certification programs.
How much does it cost to retake an AWS certification exam?
If you do not pass an AWS certification exam, you must pay the full exam fee again for the next attempt. Retake costs are generally the same as the original registration fee.
How long is an AWS certification valid?
AWS certifications are valid for three years from the date they are earned. After the validity period, professionals may need to recertify to maintain an active certification status.
Does AWS charge a separate renewal fee?
AWS does not typically charge a separate renewal subscription fee. However, candidates usually need to pass the current version of the certification exam to renew their credential, which requires paying the applicable exam fee.
Which AWS certification provides the best value for money?
For many professionals, AWS Certified Solutions Architect – Associate offers the best balance of cost, industry recognition, career opportunities, and long-term growth. It is widely regarded as one of the most valuable AWS certifications for cloud careers.
Is AWS Certified Generative AI Developer – Professional worth the cost?
Yes. AWS Certified Generative AI Developer – Professional is one of the newest AWS certifications and is highly relevant for professionals working with Amazon Bedrock, foundation models, prompt engineering, AI application development, and enterprise Generative AI solutions. As demand for AI skills continues to grow, this certification can offer strong career value.
What additional costs should I consider beyond the AWS exam fee?
In addition to the exam fee, candidates may choose to invest in training courses, AWS Skill Builder subscriptions, practice exams, hands-on labs, study materials, and certification preparation resources. These optional costs vary depending on the preparation method.
What is the best way to prepare for an AWS certification exam?
The most effective preparation strategy typically includes studying the official exam guide, gaining hands-on AWS experience, practicing with realistic mock exams, reviewing exam objectives, and following a structured study plan.
Can CertiMaan help me prepare for AWS certification exams?
Yes. CertiMaan provides certification-focused preparation support for AWS certifications, including exam guidance, practice questions, mock assessments, revision assistance, and study strategies designed to help candidates prepare more effectively and improve their chances of success.
Where can I find AWS certification sample questions?
Candidates can use official AWS certification preparation resources as well as AWS certification sample questions and practice materials available through CertiMaan to better understand exam patterns, question formats, and key topic areas before attempting the exam.
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