The Docker Certified Associate (DCA) exam costs $195.
Understanding the cost is just one part of preparing for this certification. The DCA exam is a professional-level certification that validates a candidate's proficiency in Docker technologies, crucial for modern cloud-native development and operations.
Key Details of the Docker Certified Associate (DCA) Exam
Beyond the examination fee, it's helpful to be aware of the exam's format and recommended preparation. This helps aspiring candidates plan their study and practice effectively.
Exam Structure and Requirements
The DCA exam is designed to assess practical knowledge and experience with Docker. Here's a breakdown of its core specifications:
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Cost | $195 |
| Duration | 90 minutes |
| Number of Questions | 55 questions |
| Question Types | Multiple-choice and discrete option types |
| Recommended Experience | 6-12 months of Docker experience |
This structure ensures that candidates are tested on a comprehensive range of Docker skills, from fundamental concepts to advanced orchestration and security.
Preparing for the DCA Certification
While the exam fee is a one-time cost, the investment in preparation is ongoing. It is generally advised that candidates should have 6 to 12 months of hands-on experience with Docker before attempting the exam. This practical exposure is vital for tackling the scenario-based and conceptual questions.
Effective preparation typically includes focusing on key areas such as:
- Container Orchestration: Understanding and implementing Docker Swarm services, including scaling, rolling updates, and stack deployments.
- Image Management: Building efficient and secure Docker images, managing image versions, and utilizing Docker registries.
- Networking: Configuring and troubleshooting Docker networks, understanding different network drivers, and service discovery.
- Storage Management: Implementing persistent storage solutions using Docker volumes and bind mounts.
- Security: Applying Docker security best practices, managing secrets, and understanding image vulnerability scanning.
- Installation and Configuration: Setting up Docker environments, configuring the Docker daemon, and managing Docker engines.
For further insights and a complete guide to the Docker Certified Associate certification, you can refer to comprehensive resources such as The Complete Docker Certification (DCA) Guide for 2024.
