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Databricks Certified Data Analyst Associate Quick Facts
The Databricks Certified Data Analyst Associate certification opens doors for professionals eager to demonstrate their ability to analyze, visualize, and gain insights from data efficiently. This overview provides everything you need to confidently navigate the exam structure and prepare with clarity.
How does the Databricks Data Analyst Associate certification empower your career?
The Databricks Certified Data Analyst Associate validates your ability to use the Databricks Data Intelligence Platform for working with data, writing SQL queries, and building clear visualizations and dashboards. It is designed for analysts, business intelligence professionals, and data practitioners who want to establish a strong foundation in using the Databricks ecosystem for real-world analytics. By earning this certification, you showcase your expertise in managing data securely, writing optimized queries, and presenting findings through interactive dashboards, empowering you to collaborate effectively with both technical and business stakeholders.
Who should consider the Databricks Certified Data Analyst Associate certification?
The Databricks Certified Data Analyst Associate is designed for individuals who want to demonstrate their ability to explore and analyze data using the Databricks platform. This credential is a fantastic fit for:
- Aspiring or current data analysts who work with SQL
- Business professionals who build dashboards and reports
- Students or early-career professionals entering the world of analytics
- BI developers and data visualization enthusiasts
- Team leaders, consultants, and analysts seeking to validate analytical knowledge in the Lakehouse
If you want to prove that you can transform raw data into business insights using the Databricks SQL service, this certification is an excellent opportunity to showcase your skills.
What kind of jobs can this certification help me land?
While this is an associate-level certification, it can open doors to a variety of analytics-driven roles. With this certification, you can pursue positions such as:
- Data Analyst
- Business Intelligence Analyst
- Reporting Analyst
- SQL Data Specialist
- BI Developer
- Junior Data Engineer
It also strengthens your profile if you are a product manager, consultant, or business user who regularly interacts with data teams. Beyond entry-level roles, it sets you up for career growth into data engineering, senior analytics, or business intelligence leadership.
What version of the Databricks Certified Data Analyst Associate exam should I take?
When you register for the Databricks Certified Data Analyst Associate exam, you will always be directed to the current live version of the exam (Exam Code: Latest Version). Databricks periodically updates content to match platform improvements, but rest assured that the latest exam is always available when you register.
This ensures that your certification aligns with the most up-to-date tools, features, and best practices that Databricks offers within its Data Intelligence Platform.
How much is the exam fee?
The registration fee for the Databricks Certified Data Analyst Associate exam is $200 USD. Taxes may be added depending on your country.
This cost is an investment in your career development, as earning certification from Databricks demonstrates highly relevant analytical skills in one of the most innovative and widely adopted data platforms in the industry.
How many questions are on the exam?
This exam includes 45 multiple-choice questions, some of which may be unscored experimental questions. These unscored items are used by Databricks for future exam development but do not affect your results.
Each question is designed to test your practical knowledge of SQL, data modeling, dashboarding, and managing data with the Databricks platform.
What is the duration of the exam?
You will have 90 minutes to complete the Databricks Certified Data Analyst Associate exam.
This allows enough time for careful reading of each question as well as thoughtful problem-solving, especially since the exam focuses on applied analytics knowledge rather than surface-level memorization.
Is there a passing score for the Databricks SQL Associate exam?
Yes. To pass, you need a score of 70% or higher. The exam uses scaled scoring, which means the total score you achieve across the entire test determines whether you pass. You do not need to "pass" each individual domain.
Many candidates find that strong practice with SQL queries and familiarity with features of Databricks dashboards make it easier to comfortably reach passing scores.
In what language can I take this certification?
The Databricks Certified Data Analyst Associate certification exam is offered in English.
Since Databricks is widely adopted in global enterprise organizations, being certified in English ensures you are aligned with the standard used in international data science and analytics communities.
What types of questions should I expect on the exam?
The exam consists entirely of multiple-choice questions. You will be asked to:
- Interpret SQL queries
- Identify correct dashboard configurations
- Troubleshoot query results
- Understand Unity Catalog’s role in governance
- Apply best practices in visualization and data security
These questions are scenario-based and represent the real tasks you would expect as a Databricks Data Analyst.
What areas of knowledge does the exam focus on?
The exam blueprint is divided across nine domains, each with a distinct focus. The current weightings are:
- Understanding the Databricks Data Intelligence Platform (8%)
- Managing Data (12%)
- Importing Data (6%)
- Executing queries with Databricks SQL and Warehouses (28%)
- Analyzing Queries (14%)
- Dashboards and Visualizations in Databricks (12%)
- Developing, Sharing, and Maintaining AI/BI Genie Spaces (8%)
- Data Modeling with Databricks SQL (6%)
- Securing Data (6%)
The largest portion of the exam tests your ability to execute and optimize queries, making SQL fluency an essential skill.
How long will my certification be valid for?
The Databricks Certified Data Analyst Associate credential is valid for 2 years.
After that, you can recertify by taking the latest version of the exam. This ensures that certified professionals remain current with Databricks’ rapidly evolving platform.
Does the exam have any prerequisites?
There are no mandatory prerequisites. However, Databricks recommends at least 6 months of hands-on experience working with Databricks SQL tools.
Taking the official training courses can also help build familiarity with dashboarding, Unity Catalog, and managing data in the Lakehouse.
What study resources are recommended for preparation?
Databricks provides both instructor-led and self-paced courses. The two key self-paced learning modules are:
- AI/BI for Data Analysts
- SQL Analytics on Databricks
Pair your study with hands-on practice in a Databricks workspace, and make use of top-quality Databricks Certified Data Analyst Associate practice exams that mirror the format and feel of the real test environment. Practice exams are one of the best ways to identify knowledge gaps and build exam-day confidence.
What skills will I showcase after passing the exam?
By earning this certification, you validate your ability to:
- Write efficient SQL queries in the Lakehouse
- Import data using S3, Delta Sharing, and other tools
- Work with dashboards, alerts, and parameters
- Leverage Unity Catalog for governance and security
- Model data using common industry schemas
- Optimize and troubleshoot queries for performance
Employers and team leads can immediately trust that you have proven capability to work with features at the heart of Databricks’ Data Intelligence Platform.
Do I need SQL experience before attempting this certification?
Yes, a basic to intermediate understanding of SQL is very beneficial. The exam requires you to interpret queries, fix SQL issues, and use joins, unions, and aggregate functions.
If you are new to SQL, Databricks Academy’s learning paths offer guided exercises that will help you quickly build competence and confidence before registering for the exam.
What software and equipment are required to take the exam?
The exam is delivered online and proctored remotely. You will need:
- A reliable computer with a webcam
- A microphone for communication with the remote proctor
- A quiet, private environment without interruptions
- A stable internet connection
Before your exam, you can run a system check to confirm your equipment meets requirements.
What makes this certification valuable in today’s job market?
Analytics roles are growing rapidly, and Databricks has become a market leader in unified Data + AI platforms. This certification demonstrates practical, applied knowledge in analytics workflows enterprises depend on.
Recruiters, hiring managers, and companies looking for data-driven problem-solvers value professionals with certifications backed by leading technology providers like Databricks.
Can I retake the exam if I don’t pass on the first attempt?
Yes. If you do not pass, you can register to retake the exam. Databricks may enforce a waiting period or limit the number of attempts per year.
Using practice exams, reviewing the official exam guide, and refreshing your knowledge areas can help you succeed on your next attempt.
Where can I go after earning this certification?
Once you hold the Databricks Certified Data Analyst Associate, you can expand your skillset with advanced Databricks certifications or pivot into specialist fields such as:
- Databricks Data Engineer Associate or Professional
- Databricks Machine Learning Practitioner (when available)
- Deeper learning in Spark, ETL, or data orchestration tools
Each additional certification builds upon your analytics foundation, making you more valuable to employers.
How should I register for the certification exam?
To book your exam slot, visit the official Databricks Data Analyst Associate certification page. From there, you can create an exam account, view upcoming availability, and schedule your online session.
The Databricks Certified Data Analyst Associate is more than just a certification. It’s a career-enhancing achievement that validates your ability to transform data into insights that matter. With focused study, practice, and hands-on Databricks experience, you will be ready to stand out in the growing data analytics field.
