The world's most recognised cloud certification stack — 32% market share
AWS holds the largest cloud market share at 32% and AWS-certified professionals earn a median salary $35,000 higher than non-certified peers. Certifications are structured in four tiers — Foundational, Associate, Professional, and Specialty — and AWS has standardised on a 3-year validity with straightforward renewal options. The AWS Solutions Architect Associate (SAA-C03) remains the most widely sought cloud credential globally.
No cloud background
CLF-C02 first — 4 weeks, gives you the vocabulary and structure. Then go straight to SAA-C03.
Developer adding cloud skills
CLF-C02 (optional, 3 weeks) → DVA-C02. The developer path is faster if you already code on AWS.
SysAdmin moving to cloud
CLF-C02 → SOA-C02. SysOps maps closely to traditional admin skills.
Already have SAA-C03
SAP-C02 for architects, DOP-C02 for DevOps, or a Specialty cert in your domain.
No cloud experience required — 6 months general IT background helpful
1+ year AWS hands-on experience recommended
2+ years AWS experience + Associate cert recommended
Deep domain expertise — choose based on your role
Is CLF-C02 required before SAA-C03?
No — CLF-C02 is not a prerequisite. Professionals with hands-on AWS experience often skip it and go straight to SAA-C03. CLF-C02 is most valuable for people with no cloud background.
How long are AWS certifications valid?
All AWS certifications are valid for 3 years. You can recertify by passing the same exam, any higher-level exam, or accumulating AWS CE credits. AWS sends renewal reminders well in advance.
Which AWS cert pays the most?
SAP-C02 (Solutions Architect Professional) and Specialty certs (Security, ML, Networking) correlate with the highest salaries. SAA-C03 has the best ROI as a first cloud cert given its broad employer recognition.
Can I take multiple AWS Associate certs simultaneously?
Yes — there is no required ordering between Associate certs. Many professionals hold SAA-C03 and DVA-C02 simultaneously. The knowledge overlaps significantly.
Courseiva covers all Amazon Web Services certifications with full question banks, domain tracking, and detailed answer explanations. Completely free. Every cert.
Free forever · No credit card required