Linux Certification Questions & Answers
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2. How much will it cost to get certified?
3. How do I decide which Linux certification to earn?
4. How long does certification last?
5. Is training necessary in order to obtain certification?
6. Where can I get training?
7. Where are the tests administered?
8. What are the tests like?
9. How Long Will it Take to Get Certified?
10. Is financial assistance available for certification training?
11. Where can I find more information on Linux certifications?
2. How much will it cost to get certified?
Last time we checked (2007) the exam prices (in $US) for these Linux certifications are:
- Linux+ $232 ($186 for CompTIA members)
- LPIC exams: $100 each
- CLP exam: $195
- CLE exam: $195
- RHCT exam: $349
- RHCE exam: $749
- RHCA exams: 5 exams at $749 each (unless purchased in a bundle)
- RHCSS exams: 3 exams at $749 each (unless purchased in a bundle)
The prices above were accurate as of this FAQ's publication date - check with the vendors for up-to-the-minute pricing. Some exams are available internationally at other prices (using the local currency).
Training costs may substantially increase the total cost of earning certification. Even if you are already a regular user of Linux, in order to pass any Linux certification exam you will probably need to brush up on certain areas that you do not use on a daily basis. You may be able to do this on your own, using free resources, such as product manuals, that you can find on the Internet. Or, you may need to attend instructor-led, classroom training, which can cost from several hundred to several thousand dollars per class. Many certification candidates choose to self study using one or more of the excellent books written to help candidates prepare. Self-study training on DVD is also very popular.
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3. How do I decide which Linux certification to earn?
If you are fairly new to Linux, look at LPIC Level 1 or Linux+. These are strong, basic credentials that will help you expand your Linux expertise and will add credibility to your resume. The exams are also more affordable than those for Red Hat certifications, and because they are available through testing networks, don't require as much travel. The Novell Linux certifications are another good option, but the testing is only through Novell Partners because they requires hands-on practicums.
For more advanced administrators, if you (or your employer) can afford it, give Red Hat's RHCE a serious look. Because it requires passing a hands-on exam, it gives the truest measure of your technical skill. Yes, it is distribution specific; however, much of what is true of Red Hat Linux is true of other version of Linux.
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4. How long does certification last?
For most Linux certifications, there is no expiration date or continuing certification requirements. Red Hat certification is version specific, but upgrading for new versions is not required in order to retain certification.
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5. Is training necessary in order to obtain certification?
Even experienced Linux administrators will probably need to prepare before taking a certification exam. That's because we tend to become experts in what we use every day, and may not be fully versed in the scope of the material covered by a particular exam. A simple review may due the trick for some certification candidates; others will need weeks or months of preparation.
While self-study is a popular and successful alternative, classroom training can provide the fast track to certification readiness. A quality instructor-led class that provides hands-on practice can be well worth the expense. In such settings students can try out various activities on a non-production system, where the potential to cause harm is low. Having an instructor means the material will get covered in a timely manner and you can ask for clarification of areas you find difficult.
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6. Where can I get training?
Classroom training
Self-study books
Self-study DVDs
Practice Tests
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