Prepare for AWS Certified Developer - Associate through an RDE certification-preparation route focused on developing, deploying, securing, troubleshooting and optimising AWS Cloud applications, with the official AWS exam booked separately.
AWS Certified Developer - Associate is an associate-level AWS certification for professionals who develop, test, deploy, debug and optimise applications on AWS. RDE provides a certification-preparation route aligned to the current AWS assessment objectives.
What the preparation covers
The route develops capability around application development with AWS services, security, deployment, CI/CD workflows, troubleshooting, optimisation and the practical use of cloud services in application delivery. Learning is aligned to the current AWS objectives in force when the learner prepares for assessment.
Exam and certification
RDE does not currently include an AWS exam voucher with this preparation route. Candidates register for and pay for the official AWS examination separately through AWS's current authorised exam-booking process. AWS awards the certification after successful completion of the applicable assessment.
Who this route is for
This route is suitable for software developers, cloud developers, DevOps practitioners and technical professionals who build or maintain applications using AWS services. Practical development experience is recommended.
Entry guidance
AWS recommends at least a year developing and maintaining applications with AWS, plus confidence in a programming language and application delivery.
Practical preparation
Build a small application in an authorised learning environment. Practise deploying it, protecting configuration and diagnosing a failure using logs. These are suggested practice activities. RDE will confirm the preparation format and any available lab access before enrolment.
Assessment format
The current DVA-C02 assessment has 65 questions and 130 minutes. Questions use multiple-choice and multiple-response formats. Check the current AWS booking page for test-centre or online-proctored delivery and identification requirements.
Upcoming exam update
DVA-C02 is the current preparation route reviewed here. AWS has announced DVA-C03 registration from 27 October 2026 and delivery from 1 December 2026, including AI-assisted development and security topics. Confirm the version offered for your intended exam date before starting preparation.
Validity and renewal
The credential is valid for three years. AWS lists renewal through the current Associate exam or DevOps Engineer - Professional. Its eligible Skill Builder maintenance option extends validity by one year. Check the official policy for current eligibility and subscription requirements.
Career development
Combine certification preparation with practical evidence and relevant experience. Discuss your current skills and target role with RDE when selecting a route.
Official resources
Verify current AWS certification
Check AWS renewal and maintenance options
Next step
Register your interest and RDE will confirm the current AWS exam version, preparation availability and recommended prerequisite knowledge before enrolment.
Issuer guidance reviewed: 6 October 2026. Next scheduled review: 27 October 2026.