Top 10 Automation Test Engineer Certifications

Certifications for automation test engineers are important in the job market as they demonstrate a deeper understanding of the software testing process, and show employers that the engineer is qualified to handle more advanced projects. Automation test engineers with certifications often have an advantage over those without them, as employers can be confident that they possess the skills necessary to succeed in the role. Certifications also give automation test engineers access to a larger network of industry contacts and resources. By having certifications, automation test engineers can stand out from other job applicants and make themselves more attractive to potential employers.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Automation Test Engineers and explains how they can help to enhance an automation test engineer's career.

What are Automation Test Engineer Certifications?

Automation Test Engineer certification is a professional credential that demonstrates a test engineer's knowledge and proficiency in automation testing. Automation testing is the process of using software to control the execution of tests, compare actual outcomes to expected outcomes, and report the results. This type of testing is used to help ensure that applications are functioning properly prior to release.

The Automation Test Engineer certification can help test engineers demonstrate their competency in automated testing and improve their career prospects by validating their skillset. With this certification, employers can be confident that the applicant has been trained and tested on all aspects of automation testing, including creating test scripts, running automated tests, managing test data and analyzing results. It also helps them become more efficient in their daily work by increasing their knowledge and understanding of automation tools and processes. Additionally, having this certification shows potential employers that a test engineer is committed to continuing education in order to stay up-to-date with the latest technologies.

Pro tip: Automation test engineer certifications are a great way to demonstrate your expertise in automation testing, as well as give you an edge when it comes to job opportunities. Make sure to research the different certifications available and determine which one best fits your skillset and experience level. Additionally, look into training options to make sure you have the necessary knowledge and skills for the certification exam.

Related: What does an Automation Test Engineer do?

Top 10 Automation Test Engineer Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Automation Test Engineers today.

1. ISTQB Foundation Level Certification

ISTQB Foundation Level Certification is a globally recognized certification that provides a comprehensive overview of software testing and quality assurance. It is an entry-level qualification that covers the basics of software testing, including fundamentals, test design techniques, and test management. The certification is offered by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB).

The ISTQB Foundation Level Certification consists of a single exam that takes approximately two hours to complete. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions covering topics such as test planning, test design techniques, execution of tests, and evaluation of results. To pass the exam, candidates must score at least 65% correct answers.

To get the ISTQB Foundation Level Certification, you must first register for the exam with an accredited training provider or through the ISTQB website. Once registered, you can take the online or paper-based exam at a designated testing center. You will receive your results within two weeks after taking the exam.

The cost of taking the ISTQB Foundation Level Certification varies depending on where you take it and who administers it. Generally speaking, it costs between $150-$250 USD to take the exam.

2. ISTQB Advanced Level Test Automation Engineer Certification

ISTQB Advanced Level Test Automation Engineer Certification is an international certification for experienced testers who have a good understanding of test automation. It is designed to provide recognition and validation of the skills and knowledge of those who are involved in the development and implementation of automated testing tools and processes.

The certification consists of two parts: the Foundation Level, which covers basic concepts, principles, techniques and terminology related to test automation; and the Advanced Level, which focuses on more advanced topics such as test automation architecture, design patterns, frameworks, tools, techniques and best practices. The Advanced Level also includes an examination.

The certification process typically takes three months to complete. Candidates must first pass the Foundation Level exam before they can take the Advanced Level exam. Once both exams are completed successfully, candidates will receive their ISTQB Advanced Level Test Automation Engineer Certificate.

The cost of the ISTQB Advanced Level Test Automation Engineer Certification varies depending on where you take it. In most countries it costs around $400-$600 USD for both parts of the exam.

3. Certified Software Test Automation Engineer (CSTAE)

A Certified Software Test Automation Engineer (CSTAE) is a professional certification that validates an individual's knowledge and expertise in the field of software test automation. The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to design, develop, and maintain automated tests for software applications. It also covers topics such as test case design, scripting languages, debugging techniques, and best practices for test automation.

In order to obtain the CSTAE certification, individuals must pass an exam administered by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB). The exam consists of multiple-choice questions and typically takes about two hours to complete. Candidates must have at least two years of experience in software testing or related fields in order to be eligible for the exam.

The cost of the exam varies depending on the country where it is taken; however, it typically ranges from $200-$400 USD. Additionally, some countries may require additional fees for registering for the exam or obtaining study materials.

4. Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL)

Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) is an internationally-recognized certification program that validates the knowledge and skills of software testers. It is offered by the International Software Testing Qualifications Board (ISTQB). The certification is designed to provide a basic understanding of software testing principles, processes, and techniques.

The CTFL exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions and takes 90 minutes to complete. To pass the exam, candidates must achieve a score of 65% or higher. The exam covers topics such as test design techniques, test management, static testing, and tools for test management.

To get the CTFL certification, candidates must first register for an ISTQB-approved training course. After completing the course, they can then take the CTFL exam at one of ISTQB’s authorized examination centers. Once they pass the exam, they will receive their certificate in four to six weeks.

The cost of taking the CTFL exam varies depending on where you take it and which country you are taking it in. Generally speaking, it costs around $250 USD to take the exam in North America or Europe.

5. HP Quality Center Certification

HP Quality Center Certification is an industry-recognized certification program that validates an individual's expertise in using HP Quality Center software. This certification program is designed to ensure that professionals have the skills and knowledge necessary to successfully use HP Quality Center for managing software development projects.

The certification consists of two levels: Foundation and Advanced. The Foundation level focuses on the basics of using HP Quality Center, while the Advanced level covers more advanced topics such as customizing test plans and creating reports. To become certified, candidates must pass a series of exams at each level.

The exams can be taken online or in person at authorized testing centers. Each exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and costs around $150 USD per exam. Candidates must pass both the Foundation and Advanced exams to become certified. The entire process usually takes around four weeks from start to finish, depending on when you schedule your exams.

In addition to passing the exams, candidates must also have a minimum of three years of experience working with HP Quality Center in order to qualify for certification. There are no prerequisites for taking the exams, but it is recommended that candidates have some prior experience working with HP Quality Center before attempting them.

The cost of becoming certified varies depending on how many exams you take and where you take them, but it typically ranges from $300-$600 USD for both levels combined.

6. Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) – Software Testing Fundamentals

Microsoft Technology Associate (MTA) – Software Testing Fundamentals is a certification program designed to provide individuals with the knowledge and skills they need to understand software testing fundamentals. This certification covers topics such as test planning, test design, test execution, and defect tracking. It also provides an understanding of the concepts of quality assurance and software development life cycles.

The MTA – Software Testing Fundamentals exam takes approximately two hours to complete and consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. The exam is offered in both English and Japanese languages. To earn the certification, you must pass the exam with a score of 700 or higher out of 1000 points.

To get the MTA – Software Testing Fundamentals certification, you must first register for the exam at Microsoft’s website. You will then be able to schedule your exam time and date at a local testing center or online through Pearson VUE. The cost for taking the exam is $127 USD (or equivalent in local currency).

Once you have passed the exam, you will receive an official Microsoft Technology Associate certificate as well as access to digital badges that can be shared on social media platforms such as LinkedIn. Additionally, you will gain recognition from employers who recognize this certification as a sign of expertise in software testing fundamentals.

7. Selenium WebDriver Certification

Selenium WebDriver Certification is a professional certification program designed to help software professionals prove their expertise in the use of Selenium WebDriver. It is an industry-recognized credential that validates an individual’s ability to write automated tests using Selenium WebDriver.

The certification exam covers topics such as locating elements, interacting with elements, creating and running tests, and debugging. It also includes questions on best practices for writing code and working with the Selenium API. The exam takes approximately two hours to complete.

To get certified, you must first register for the online exam through the Selenium website. After registration, you will receive an email with instructions on how to access the exam. You will then need to purchase credits from the website in order to take the exam. Each credit costs $25 USD and can be used for any of the available exams. Once you have purchased your credits, you can schedule your exam at a time that is convenient for you.

Once you have completed your exam, your results will be emailed to you within 24 hours of completion. If you pass the exam, you will receive a certificate of completion which will serve as proof of your achievement in becoming a certified Selenium WebDriver user.

8. Certified Scrum Master (CSM)

Certified Scrum Master (CSM) is a professional certification program for individuals who wish to demonstrate their knowledge and understanding of the Scrum framework. It is designed to help individuals become better Scrum Masters, or those responsible for leading a team in the successful adoption of Scrum.

The CSM certification process consists of two parts: an online assessment and an in-person training. The online assessment tests your knowledge of the fundamental principles, practices, and terminology associated with Scrum. The in-person training provides hands-on experience with the Scrum framework and helps you develop the skills necessary to be an effective Scrum Master.

To become a Certified Scrum Master, you must first complete a two-day in-person training course offered by one of the approved providers listed on the official website. After completing the course, you will receive a certificate that allows you to take the online assessment. Once you have passed the assessment, you will be officially certified as a CSM.

The cost of becoming a Certified Scrum Master varies depending on which provider you choose to take your training from. Generally speaking, it can range from $500-$2000 USD for both parts of the certification process (training and assessment).

9. Certified Agile Tester (CAT)

Certified Agile Tester (CAT) is an international certification program designed to recognize professionals with expertise in the practice of agile testing. It is based on the International Software Testing Qualifications Board’s (ISTQB) Certified Tester Foundation Level (CTFL) syllabus, but adapted to the principles and practices of agile software development. The certification offers a way for testers to demonstrate their knowledge and skills in agile testing methods and techniques.

The CAT exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. To pass the exam, candidates must score at least 65% (26 out of 40).

To become a Certified Agile Tester, you must first complete the ISTQB CTFL course and then pass the CAT exam. The cost for both courses varies depending on where you take them, but typically ranges from $400-$600 USD. The CAT exam can be taken online or in person at an authorized testing center.

The cost of taking the CAT exam is approximately $250 USD. There are no prerequisites or experience requirements for taking the exam, so anyone can sign up and take it as long as they have studied for it beforehand.

10. ISEB/ISTQB Mobile Application Testing Foundation Certificate

The ISEB/ISTQB Mobile Application Testing Foundation Certificate is a certification that provides an understanding of the fundamentals of mobile application testing. It covers topics such as mobile device types, mobile operating systems, mobile application development and testing techniques, and the challenges associated with testing mobile applications. The course takes approximately 16 hours to complete and can be taken online or in person. To get the certificate, you need to pass an exam which costs £200. The exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions and must be completed within 90 minutes.

Do You Really Need a Automation Test Engineer Certificate?

The short answer to this question is no, you do not need an automation test engineer certificate to become an automation test engineer. However, having a certificate may give you an edge in the job market and can provide you with the opportunity to demonstrate your knowledge and skills in the field.

Automation test engineers work with various programming languages, software development environments, and databases. They are responsible for developing automated tests that simulate user interaction with a system or application. Automation testing helps developers quickly identify bugs and other issues before releasing their product into production.

Having a certification as an automation test engineer can be beneficial in several ways. It can help employers verify your technical knowledge and experience in creating automated tests. It also demonstrates that you have taken the time to learn about the tools and techniques necessary for successful automation testing. Certification also shows employers that you are committed to staying up-to-date on the latest technologies and trends in the field of automation testing.

In addition, having a certification as an automation test engineer may help open doors when applying for jobs or promotions within a company's IT department. Employers often look favorably upon those who have taken the initiative to specialize in a certain area of technology. Having a certificate may give you an advantage over other applicants when competing for positions or promotions within IT departments.

Ultimately, whether or not you need an automation test engineer certificate depends upon your individual goals and situation. If you are looking to break into the field of automation testing or gain more responsibility at your current job, then obtaining certification could be beneficial for advancing your career prospects. However, if you already have experience working as an automation tester without any formal training or certifications, then it may not be necessary for you to obtain one at this time.

Related: Automation Test Engineer Resume Examples

FAQs About Automation Test Engineer Certifications

Q1: What is an Automation Test Engineer Certification?

A1: An Automation Test Engineer Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates a candidate’s knowledge and expertise in the field of automation testing. It covers topics such as creating test scripts, running automated tests, debugging code and more.

Q2: How do I become certified as an Automation Test Engineer?

A2: To become certified as an Automation Test Engineer, you must pass an industry-recognized certification exam. The exam typically covers topics such as automation frameworks, test design techniques, and scripting languages.

Q3: What are the benefits of having an Automation Test Engineer Certification?

A3: Having an Automation Test Engineer Certification can help to demonstrate your technical knowledge and experience in the field of automation testing. It can also lead to higher salaries, job opportunities, and promotions.

Q4: How much does it cost to get certified as an Automation Test Engineer?

A4: The cost of getting certified as an Automation Test Engineer varies depending on the type of certification program you choose. Generally speaking, most programs will cost between $500 and $2,000 USD.

Q5: How long does it take to get certified as an Automation Test Engineer?

A5: The time it takes to get certified as an Automation Test Engineer depends upon the type of certification program you choose. Some programs offer online courses that can be completed within a few weeks or months while others require in-person classes which may take up to one year to complete.