Best Drupal Developer Certifications
Acquia Certified Developer
Certification Provider
Acquia
Best for
This certification is best for Drupal Developers who want to validate their comprehensive knowledge of Drupal and demonstrate their expertise to employers. It is suitable for both entry-level and experienced developers. Those looking to advance their careers or work with top Drupal agencies will benefit most.
Description
The Acquia Certified Developer certification is designed to validate the skills and knowledge of professionals working with Drupal. It covers essential areas such as site building, front-end and back-end development, and fundamental web concepts. The exam tests a candidate’s ability to develop and maintain Drupal-based solutions. It is recognized globally and is often required by employers seeking skilled Drupal professionals. This certification demonstrates a solid understanding of Drupal best practices and coding standards.
Acquia Certified Back End Specialist
Certification Provider
Acquia
Best for
Best for Drupal Developers who focus on back-end development and want to showcase their expertise in custom module creation and site architecture. It is ideal for those seeking senior or specialized roles. Developers aiming to lead technical projects will find this certification valuable.
Description
This certification focuses on the back-end aspects of Drupal development, including module development, site architecture, and performance optimization. It is intended for developers who specialize in creating custom modules and integrating third-party services. The exam covers advanced PHP, database management, and security best practices. Earning this certification shows a deep understanding of Drupal’s back-end systems. It is highly regarded among technical teams and employers.
Acquia Certified Front End Specialist
Certification Provider
Acquia
Best for
Best for Drupal Developers who focus on front-end development, theming, and user interface design. It is suitable for those who want to prove their skills in creating engaging and accessible Drupal websites. Front-end specialists and those working closely with designers will benefit most.
Description
This certification is tailored for developers who specialize in the front-end aspects of Drupal, such as theming, site building, and user experience. It tests knowledge of HTML, CSS, JavaScript, and Drupal’s theming layer. The exam also covers accessibility and responsive design principles. Achieving this certification demonstrates proficiency in creating visually appealing and user-friendly Drupal sites. It is recognized by employers looking for skilled front-end Drupal talent.
Acquia Certified Site Builder
Certification Provider
Acquia
Best for
Best for Drupal Developers or site administrators who focus on configuring and managing Drupal sites rather than custom development. It is suitable for beginners or those transitioning from content management roles. Site builders and project managers will find this certification especially useful.
Description
The Acquia Certified Site Builder certification is designed for professionals who build Drupal sites using core and contributed modules without extensive custom coding. It covers site configuration, content modeling, and user management. The exam tests practical knowledge of Drupal’s administrative interface and best practices for site building. This certification is ideal for those who manage content and site structure. It is a great entry point for those new to Drupal development.
Drupal Grand Master Certification
Certification Provider
Acquia
Best for
Best for experienced Drupal Developers who want to demonstrate their all-around expertise and leadership in the Drupal ecosystem. It is ideal for those seeking senior, lead, or architect roles. Developers aiming to stand out in the job market or lead large projects will benefit most.
Description
The Drupal Grand Master Certification is an advanced credential awarded to professionals who have passed all three Acquia Drupal certification exams: Developer, Back End Specialist, and Front End Specialist. It recognizes a high level of expertise and commitment to the Drupal platform. This certification is highly respected in the Drupal community and among employers. It demonstrates mastery across all major areas of Drupal development. Achieving Grand Master status sets a developer apart as a top-tier expert.
Pantheon WebOps Certification for Drupal
Certification Provider
Pantheon
Best for
Best for Drupal Developers and site administrators who manage Drupal sites on Pantheon and want to validate their operational skills. It is suitable for those involved in DevOps, site maintenance, and performance optimization. Developers working in agencies or enterprise environments will benefit most.
Description
Pantheon’s WebOps Certification for Drupal focuses on the operational aspects of managing Drupal sites on the Pantheon platform. It covers workflows, deployment, performance optimization, and site security. The certification is designed for developers and site administrators who use Pantheon’s tools and services. It demonstrates proficiency in modern web operations and DevOps practices. This certification is valuable for those working in environments that leverage Pantheon for Drupal hosting.
Drupal 8/9 Developer Certification (Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, etc.)
Certification Provider
Udemy, LinkedIn Learning, and other online platforms
Best for
Best for entry-level Drupal Developers or those transitioning from other web development backgrounds. It is suitable for individuals seeking to learn Drupal at their own pace. Developers looking to build a portfolio or prepare for more advanced certifications will benefit most.
Description
Several online learning platforms offer Drupal 8/9 Developer certifications, which cover the basics of Drupal site building, module development, and theming. These certifications are often accompanied by comprehensive courses and hands-on projects. They are suitable for self-paced learners and those looking to build foundational skills. While not as widely recognized as Acquia certifications, they provide valuable knowledge and practical experience. These certifications are a good starting point for new Drupal developers.
Benefits of having a Drupal Developer Certification
Enhanced Credibility and Recognition
Having a certification as a Drupal Developer enhances your professional credibility and recognition in the industry. Employers and clients are more likely to trust your skills and expertise when you have a recognized certification. It serves as a third-party validation of your knowledge and abilities. Certified developers often stand out in competitive job markets. This recognition can lead to more job opportunities and higher earning potential.
Increased Job Opportunities
Certifications open doors to a wider range of job opportunities for Drupal Developers. Many employers list certifications as a preferred or required qualification in job postings. Being certified can help you qualify for roles that might otherwise be out of reach. It also increases your chances of being shortlisted for interviews. Certified developers are often considered for more advanced or specialized positions.
Demonstrated Commitment to Professional Growth
Earning a certification shows your commitment to continuous learning and professional development. It demonstrates that you are proactive about staying current with industry trends and best practices. Employers value candidates who invest in their own growth. This commitment can set you apart from other candidates who lack certifications. It also helps you stay motivated and engaged in your career.
Access to a Professional Network
Certified Drupal Developers often gain access to exclusive professional networks and communities. These networks can provide valuable resources, support, and collaboration opportunities. Being part of a certified community can help you stay updated on the latest developments in Drupal. It also allows you to connect with other experts and potential employers. Networking can lead to new projects, partnerships, and career advancement.
Improved Technical Skills and Confidence
Preparing for a certification exam helps you deepen your technical knowledge and skills. The process of studying and practicing for the exam exposes you to new concepts and best practices. This increased expertise translates into greater confidence in your abilities as a Drupal Developer. Certified developers are often better equipped to tackle complex projects and solve challenging problems. This confidence can lead to higher job satisfaction and better performance.
How to Choose the Best Drupal Developer Certification
Assess Your Current Skill Level and Career Goals
Start by evaluating your current experience with Drupal and your long-term career objectives. If you are new to Drupal, consider entry-level certifications like the Acquia Certified Site Builder or online course certifications. For more experienced developers, advanced certifications such as the Acquia Certified Developer or Grand Master may be more appropriate. Align your certification choice with the skills you want to develop and the roles you aspire to. This ensures that your investment in certification supports your professional growth.
Research Certification Requirements and Content
Review the prerequisites, exam topics, and format for each certification. Some certifications require hands-on experience or prior knowledge of specific Drupal versions. Make sure you understand what is covered in the exam and whether it matches your expertise. Look for official study guides, sample questions, and training resources. This research will help you choose a certification that is both achievable and relevant to your career path.
Consider Industry Recognition and Employer Preferences
Choose certifications that are widely recognized and valued by employers in your region or industry. Acquia certifications, for example, are highly regarded in the Drupal community and often listed in job postings. Check job boards and talk to recruiters to see which certifications are most in demand. Opting for a well-known certification can increase your chances of landing your desired job. Industry recognition also adds credibility to your resume.
Evaluate Training and Preparation Resources
Ensure that you have access to quality training materials, courses, and practice exams for your chosen certification. Some certifications offer official training programs, while others rely on community resources or third-party courses. Consider your preferred learning style—whether you learn best through self-study, instructor-led courses, or hands-on practice. Having the right resources will make your preparation more effective and increase your chances of passing the exam. Choose a certification with ample support and study options.
Plan for Long-Term Value and Career Progression
Think about how the certification fits into your long-term career plans. Some certifications serve as stepping stones to more advanced credentials or specialized roles. Consider whether the certification will remain relevant as Drupal evolves and new versions are released. Look for certifications that offer renewal options or continuing education opportunities. Planning for long-term value ensures that your certification remains an asset throughout your career. This approach helps you build a sustainable and rewarding path as a Drupal Developer.