Vendor
CNCF exams
See which Quizra question sets are currently listed for this vendor, then open the exact exam you are preparing for.
- Exams
- 1
- Questions
- 199
Question sets
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Certification paths
How the certifications fit together
Associate
Foundational credentials
- Kubernetes and Cloud Native AssociateKCNAFoundational cloud-native and Kubernetes knowledge; online proctored multiple-choice.
- Kubernetes and Cloud Security AssociateKCSACloud-native security foundation credential; online proctored multiple-choice.
- Prometheus Certified AssociatePCAFoundational observability focus; online proctored multiple-choice.
- Cilium Certified AssociateCCACilium networking/security/observability focus; online proctored multiple-choice.
Developer
Application-development stream
- Certified Kubernetes Application DeveloperCKADFor Kubernetes application developers; performance-based command-line format.
- OpenTelemetry Certified AssociateOTCAProject telemetry-focused certification for observability.
- Certified Argo Project AssociateCAPAValidated with knowledge of Argo workflows/CD toolchain.
- GitOps Certified AssociateCGOACovers GitOps concepts and toolchains in cloud-native workflows.
Administrator
Kubernetes operations stream
- Certified Kubernetes AdministratorCKAHands-on Kubernetes administration; requires command-line performance tasks.
- Certified Cloud Native Platform AssociateCNPACloud-native platform engineering fundamentals; online proctored multiple-choice.
Specialist
Security and advanced engineering
- Certified Kubernetes Security SpecialistCKSSecurity specialist path; requires passing CKA before attempting; two-hour hands-on exam.
- Certified Cloud Native Platform EngineerCNPEAdvanced platform engineering; online proctored performance-based exam.
Cloud Native Project Associate
Project-specific associate stack
- Istio Certified AssociateICAIstio principles and operations certification.
- Certified Backstage AssociateCBABackstage platform/software development infrastructure focus.
- Kyverno Certified AssociateKCAPolicy management and Kubernetes security policy operations.
What changed
The timeline
- October 15, 2024
CKS exam framework now shows Kubernetes v1.35
- November 11, 2025
CNPE added to CNCF certification catalog
- November 24, 2025
KCNA exam updated for Nov. 2025 release
- January 1, 2026
CARE now auto-renews KCNA and KCSA
- March 24, 2026
Kubernetes AI Conformance expands with v1.35 requirements
- June 18, 2026
CKA CARE auto-renewal starts
- June 18, 2026
Unified CNCF certification pathway now on Udemy
- August 1, 2026
CARE adds LFCA renewal path
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