Top 11 Distributor Certifications

Certifications for distributors are important in the job market because they demonstrate a level of competency and knowledge that employers look for when hiring. Certifications also provide an assurance to employers that their employees have the necessary skills and qualifications to do the job well. Additionally, certifications can help distributors stand out from other applicants by showing that they have taken the initiative to gain additional qualifications and stay up-to-date on industry trends. Finally, certifications can lead to higher salaries and better job opportunities as they demonstrate dedication to professional development.

This article reviews some of the top certifications for Distributors and explains how they can contribute to a distributor's career by providing professional development and recognition.

What are Distributor Certifications?

Distributor certification is a process of verifying that a distributor meets the required standards to sell and distribute products. It helps ensure that the products they are selling meet the quality, safety, and legal requirements set by the manufacturer or supplier. This type of certification can also help protect brand reputation, as it verifies that distributors are meeting standards set by the manufacturer or supplier. Additionally, it can help reduce costs associated with returns due to faulty or counterfeit products being sold. Distributor certification can also assist in customer satisfaction, as customers have greater confidence knowing that their purchased product meets the necessary standards for quality and safety.

Pro Tip: When considering distributor certification, make sure to research the certifying body and ensure it is recognized by your target markets. This will help ensure that the certification meets industry standards and is accepted by customers.

Related: What does a Distributor do?

Top 11 Distributor Certifications

Here’s our list of the best certifications available to Distributors today.

1. Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Expert (MCSE) is a certification program from Microsoft that recognizes individuals who have the technical skills and expertise to design, implement, and manage complex IT solutions. The MCSE certification is designed for professionals who work in a wide range of roles such as IT administrators, system engineers, architects, developers, and consultants.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the MCSE certification process. To get started on the path to becoming an MCSE certified professional, you'll need to pass a series of exams that cover topics such as networking fundamentals, Windows Server administration, virtualization technologies, cloud computing fundamentals, identity management and more.

The cost of the MCSE certification varies depending on which exams you take and how many you take. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $165 USD. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking practice tests or other preparation materials.

2. Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA)

Microsoft Certified Solutions Associate (MCSA) is a certification program that validates the skills and knowledge of IT professionals in using Microsoft products. It is designed to help them become more proficient in their respective roles, such as system administrators, database administrators, network engineers, and software developers. The MCSA credential is awarded after passing one or more exams that demonstrate an individual’s ability to install, configure, manage, and troubleshoot various Microsoft products.

The amount of time it takes to get an MCSA certification varies depending on the individual's experience level and which exam(s) they choose to take. Generally speaking, it can take anywhere from six months to two years to complete the required exams and obtain the certification.

To get an MCSA certification, you must pass at least one exam that covers a specific Microsoft product or technology. You can find a list of available exams on the Microsoft website. After passing the exam(s), you will receive your official MCSA certificate from Microsoft.

The cost for taking an MCSA exam varies depending on where you take it and which exam you choose. Generally speaking, most exams cost between $100-$200 USD per attempt. Additionally, some training courses may be necessary before attempting certain exams; these courses can range from free online tutorials to paid instructor-led classes costing several hundred dollars or more.

3. CompTIA A+

CompTIA A+ is an industry-leading certification for IT professionals. It is a vendor-neutral, globally recognized certification that verifies the skills and knowledge of entry-level computer technicians. CompTIA A+ is designed to provide a broad foundation of knowledge in hardware, software, networking and security topics.

The CompTIA A+ exam consists of two parts: Core 1 (220-1001) and Core 2 (220-1002). To earn the certification, you must pass both exams. The exams cover a wide range of topics including operating systems, networks, mobile devices, hardware, virtualization and cloud computing.

It typically takes about three months to study for the CompTIA A+ exam. However, this can vary depending on your experience level and how much time you are able to dedicate to studying each day. You can find study materials online or purchase books or training classes from vendors such as CompTIA or Pearson VUE.

To get the CompTIA A+ certification you must pass both the Core 1 and Core 2 exams. Each exam costs $226 USD ($452 USD total). After passing both exams you will receive your official certificate from CompTIA.

4. CompTIA Network+

CompTIA Network+ is an industry-leading certification program designed to validate the knowledge and skills of IT professionals working in network support roles. It is a vendor-neutral certification that covers topics such as network technologies, installation and configuration, media and topologies, security, and troubleshooting.

The CompTIA Network+ exam typically takes two hours to complete and consists of 90 multiple choice questions. The exam is available in English, Japanese, German, French, Spanish, Portuguese (Brazilian), Simplified Chinese and Traditional Chinese.

To obtain the CompTIA Network+ certification you must pass the N10-007 exam with a score of at least 720 out of 900 points. You can take the exam at any Pearson VUE or Prometric testing center or online through an approved provider.

The cost of the CompTIA Network+ exam varies depending on your geographical location but typically ranges from $200 to $300 USD.

5. Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP)

Cisco Certified Network Professional (CCNP) is a professional-level certification offered by Cisco. It is designed for networking professionals who are responsible for designing, implementing, verifying and troubleshooting local and wide area enterprise networks.

It takes approximately 6-12 months to complete the CCNP certification program. The program consists of three exams: ROUTE (300-101), SWITCH (300-115) and TSHOOT (300-135). Each exam costs $300 USD.

To get the CCNP certification, you must first pass all three exams within 3 years of starting the program. After passing the exams, you must then submit an application to Cisco with proof of your exam results in order to receive your certification.

The total cost of the CCNP certification program can vary depending on how long it takes you to complete it, but generally it will cost around $900 USD.

6. Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE)

Cisco Certified Internetwork Expert (CCIE) is a technical certification offered by Cisco Systems. It is the highest level of certification offered by Cisco and is considered to be one of the most prestigious certifications in the IT industry.

A CCIE certification validates an individual’s expertise in designing, building, configuring, and troubleshooting complex network infrastructures. This includes both hardware and software components that are used for routing, switching, security, wireless networking, voice over IP (VoIP), storage area networks (SANs), and other technologies.

The CCIE certification requires candidates to pass two exams: a written exam and a lab exam. The written exam tests a candidate's knowledge of networking concepts and protocols while the lab exam tests their ability to configure actual network equipment.

It typically takes between 6-12 months to complete the required training and preparation for the CCIE exams. Candidates should have at least 5 years of experience working with Cisco products before attempting the exams.

The cost for taking the CCIE exams varies depending on which track you choose. The written exam typically costs around $400 USD while the lab exam can range from $1,000 - $2,500 USD depending on which track you choose.

7. VMware Certified Professional (VCP)

VMware Certified Professional (VCP) is a certification program designed to validate an individual’s skills and knowledge in VMware virtualization technologies. VCP certifications are offered at two levels: VCP-DCV (Data Center Virtualization) and VCP-NV (Network Virtualization).

It typically takes around six months to complete the training and pass the exams necessary to become certified. To get started, individuals must have experience with VMware vSphere or other VMware products and attend an authorized training course. After completing the course, individuals must pass two exams: the Foundations Exam and either the VCP-DCV or VCP-NV exam.

The cost of becoming a VCP can vary depending on which courses you take, but it typically ranges from $2,000 - $4,000 USD. The cost includes all training materials, access to practice exams, and both certification exams.

8. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification offered by Red Hat, Inc. that demonstrates the knowledge and skills necessary to manage a Red Hat Enterprise Linux system. It is an entry-level certification that focuses on core system administration tasks such as installing and configuring systems, managing users and groups, configuring network services, managing storage devices, and more.

The RHCSA exam typically takes around two hours to complete and costs $400 USD. To get certified, you must pass the RHCSA exam. You can prepare for the exam by taking a course from an authorized training partner or by self-study using official Red Hat materials. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive your certificate in the mail within 4-6 weeks. The certification is valid for three years from the date of issue.

9. Oracle Database Administrator Certified Professional (OCP)

Oracle Database Administrator Certified Professional (OCP) is a certification program offered by Oracle Corporation that validates the skills and knowledge of database administrators. The OCP certification is designed to provide recognition to individuals who demonstrate a comprehensive understanding of Oracle database administration.

The OCP certification requires passing two exams: a written exam and a hands-on lab exam. The written exam covers topics such as installation, configuration, management, backup and recovery, security, performance tuning, and troubleshooting. The lab exam focuses on practical application of the concepts learned in the written exam.

It typically takes three to six months to complete the OCP certification program depending on an individual’s experience level and study habits. To get started, individuals must register for an Oracle Account at oracle.com/education/certification/. After registering for an account, they can purchase the required exams through their account.

The cost of the OCP certification program varies depending on which exams are taken and where they are taken. Generally speaking, each exam costs around $200 USD per attempt. Additionally, there may be additional fees associated with taking the exams at a testing center or proctored online environment.

10. Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate (JNCIA)

Juniper Networks Certified Internet Associate (JNCIA) is a certification offered by Juniper Networks that validates an individual's knowledge and understanding of networking fundamentals, routing protocols, and switching technologies. It is the entry-level certification for Juniper Networks, and it typically takes about two weeks to complete the training required to obtain the JNCIA certification.

To get the JNCIA certification, individuals must first register for the course on Juniper's website. The course consists of both online and in-person classes that cover topics such as network topologies, routing protocols, switching technologies, security policies, and more. Once the course is completed successfully, individuals must pass a written exam to receive their JNCIA certification.

The cost of obtaining a JNCIA certification varies depending on where you take the training courses. Generally speaking, it can range anywhere from $1,000 to $3,000 USD.

11. Dell EMC Proven Professional Cloud Architect

Dell EMC Proven Professional Cloud Architect is a certification program designed to help IT professionals develop the skills and knowledge needed to design, build, and manage cloud computing solutions. It is intended for IT professionals who want to become cloud architects or already have experience in cloud architecture.

The program consists of two parts: an online course and an exam. The online course provides an introduction to cloud computing concepts, technologies, architectures, and best practices. The exam tests your knowledge of these topics as well as your ability to apply them in real-world scenarios.

The program takes approximately 6-12 months to complete depending on how much time you are able to dedicate to studying and taking the exam. To get certified, you must successfully complete the online course and pass the exam with a score of 70% or higher.

The cost of the Dell EMC Proven Professional Cloud Architect certification program varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $2,000-$3,000 USD for the entire program including both the online course and exam fees.

Do You Really Need a Distributor Certificate?

A distributor certificate is a document that serves as proof that a company has been granted permission to distribute or resell products or services from a manufacturer. It is also known as a “distributor agreement” or “distributor authorization.”

Whether you need a distributor certificate will depend on the type of business you are operating. If you are selling products from other companies, then it is likely that the manufacturer will require you to have a distributor certificate in order to do so legally. This is because the certificate provides evidence that your business has been authorized to resell their products, and it also allows them to control who can sell their items and how they should be sold.

Without a distributor certificate, you may find yourself in legal trouble if you are caught selling products without permission from the manufacturer. The consequences can be serious, and may include fines, penalties, and even criminal charges. For this reason, it is important to make sure that you have all of the necessary paperwork before engaging in any type of distribution activities.

In addition to protecting your business from potential legal issues, having a distributor certificate can also help boost your reputation with suppliers and customers alike. Having this document shows them that your business is legitimate and trustworthy, which can lead to more sales and better customer service overall.

In conclusion, whether or not you need a distributor certificate will depend on the type of business you’re running; however, it is generally recommended for those who are selling products from other companies in order to protect your business from potential legal issues and build trust with customers and suppliers alike.

Related: Distributor Resume Examples

FAQs About Distributor Certifications

Q1: What is a Distributor Certification?

A1: A Distributor Certification is a program that certifies product distributors to ensure they are following industry standards and best practices when distributing products. The certification process typically includes training, testing, and an assessment of the distributor’s knowledge and capabilities.

Q2: What are the benefits of having a Distributor Certification?

A2: Having a Distributor Certification can help to provide customers with peace of mind when buying products from certified distributors. It also helps to ensure that distributors are up-to-date on the latest industry standards and best practices, as well as being knowledgeable about the products they distribute.

Q3: Who is eligible for a Distributor Certification?

A3: Generally speaking, any organization or individual involved in the distribution of products may be eligible for certification. Each certification program will have specific requirements and criteria that must be met in order to receive certification.

Q4: How long does it take to get a Distributor Certification?

A4: The time frame for obtaining a Distributor Certification will vary depending on the certification program. On average, it can take several weeks or even months to complete all of the necessary steps and receive certification.

Q5: How much does it cost to become certified?

A5: The cost for becoming certified will depend on the specific program and provider you choose. Generally speaking, most programs charge an enrollment fee as well as other fees associated with testing, documentation, etc.