Top 11 LAMP Developer Certifications

Certifications are an important part of a lamp developer’s job market, as they demonstrate to employers that the developer is qualified and has a certain level of expertise. Certifications show potential employers that the lamp developer has the skills and knowledge to work on their projects and will be able to contribute to the success of the company. Additionally, certifications can help distinguish a lamp developer from other applicants and make them more attractive in the job market. They also provide proof that the individual is competent in certain areas, which can give them an extra edge when competing for jobs.

This article reviews the top certifications for LAMP Developers and explains how they can help to advance a lamp developer's career.

What are LAMP Developer Certifications?

LAMP Developer Certification is a certification program designed to recognize the skills, knowledge, and abilities of developers who specialize in Linux, Apache, MySQL, and PHP (LAMP) technologies. It is designed to help employers identify qualified LAMP developers and provide a benchmark that can be used to assess the technical competency of individuals. The certification measures an individual's ability to design, develop, and maintain web applications using this stack of technologies.

The certification consists of a two-part exam: Part 1 covers basic concepts related to the LAMP stack while Part 2 tests more advanced topics such as database design, debugging techniques, and security best practices. The exam is administered by an independent third party and requires applicants to demonstrate their understanding of the LAMP stack through both written questions and practical exercises.

By obtaining this certification, developers can demonstrate that they have the necessary skills for developing web applications using the LAMP stack. This will make them more attractive to potential employers and give them access to higher paying jobs. In addition, it will also help them stay up-to-date on the latest trends in web development technology so that they can remain competitive in their field.

Pro Tip: If you are interested in becoming a certified Lamp Developer, make sure to research the different certifications available and find one that best suits your skill level and experience. Additionally, it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends in web development technologies in order to ensure that you have the necessary skills to become a successful Lamp Developer.

Related: What does an LAMP Developer do?

Top 11 LAMP Developer Certifications

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

1. Oracle Certified Professional, MySQL 5.6 Database Administrator

Oracle Certified Professional, MySQL 5.6 Database Administrator is a professional certification program offered by Oracle Corporation. It is designed to recognize individuals who have demonstrated the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively manage, configure, and maintain an Oracle MySQL 5.6 database system.

The certification exam consists of multiple-choice questions that test your knowledge of MySQL architecture, data types, SQL statements, security and replication concepts. The exam also covers topics such as installation and configuration of the server, backup and recovery procedures, performance tuning techniques and troubleshooting tips for managing a MySQL 5.6 database system.

It typically takes around 6 months to prepare for this certification exam depending on your experience level with Oracle MySQL databases. In order to get certified you will need to pass the Oracle Certified Professional, MySQL 5.6 Database Administrator Exam (1Z0-883). This exam can be taken at any authorized Pearson VUE testing center or online through the Oracle Certification website.

The cost of taking the exam varies depending on where you take it but usually ranges from $150-$200 USD per attempt.

2. Zend Certified PHP Engineer

Zend Certified PHP Engineer (ZCPE) is a certification program designed to recognize the expertise of experienced PHP developers. It is an industry-recognized credential that demonstrates a developer’s knowledge and skills in developing applications using the Zend Framework. The ZCPE is administered by Zend Technologies, the creators of the popular open source scripting language PHP.

The certification process consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam tests your knowledge of PHP programming, including object-oriented programming, database access, web services, security, and other topics related to developing applications with the Zend Framework. The practical exam requires you to develop an application using the Zend Framework and demonstrate your ability to use it effectively.

It typically takes about three months to complete both parts of the certification process. You can prepare for the exams by taking online courses or attending instructor-led classes offered by Zend Technologies or its partners. It is also recommended that you have several years of experience working with PHP before attempting either exam.

The cost of obtaining your ZCPE varies depending on which training provider you choose and whether or not you are eligible for any discounts or special offers they may have available. Generally speaking, however, it will cost anywhere from $500-$2,000 USD to become certified as a Zend Certified PHP Engineer.

3. Linux Professional Institute (LPI) Level 1 and 2 Certifications

Linux Professional Institute (LPI) Level 1 and 2 Certifications are globally recognized certifications that demonstrate an individual’s knowledge of Linux. The certifications are designed to validate the skills of system administrators, developers, and other IT professionals who use Linux in their day-to-day work.

The LPI Level 1 Certification is intended for those with basic knowledge of Linux, while the LPI Level 2 Certification is intended for those with more advanced knowledge. To earn the certifications, individuals must pass two exams: one on general Linux topics (Level 1) and one on more specific topics (Level 2).

It typically takes between six months and a year to prepare for the exams. Candidates should have experience working with Linux systems as well as a good understanding of the command line interface and basic scripting. It is also recommended that candidates take an online or classroom course before attempting the exams.

The cost of the exams varies depending on location but typically ranges from $200-$300 per exam. Candidates can register for the exams through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers.

4. Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA)

Red Hat Certified System Administrator (RHCSA) is a certification program offered by Red Hat, Inc. It certifies system administrators in the skills required to manage and configure Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. This certification is vendor-neutral and is considered one of the most sought-after credentials for Linux professionals.

The RHCSA exam is designed to test your knowledge and skills in setting up, configuring, maintaining, and troubleshooting Red Hat Enterprise Linux systems. The exam consists of two parts: a performance-based section that tests your ability to perform specific tasks on a live system, and a multiple choice section that tests your knowledge of various topics related to Red Hat Enterprise Linux.

The RHCSA certification typically takes about 6-12 months to complete depending on the individual's level of experience with Red Hat Enterprise Linux. To become certified, you must first pass the RHCSA exam. To prepare for the exam, you can take an instructor-led course or self-study using online resources such as books, tutorials, and practice exams.

The cost of the RHCSA exam varies depending on where you take it. In the United States, it costs $400 USD per attempt if taken at an authorized testing center or $200 USD per attempt if taken online through Red Hat’s website.

5. Apache HTTP Server Administration Certification

Apache HTTP Server Administration Certification is a certification program offered by the Apache Software Foundation. The certification is designed to demonstrate an individual's knowledge and skills in administering Apache HTTP Server, the world's most popular web server.

The certification requires that candidates pass a written exam, which covers topics such as installation, configuration, security, performance tuning and troubleshooting of Apache HTTP Server. The exam is administered online and takes approximately two hours to complete.

To be eligible for the certification, applicants must have at least six months of experience working with Apache HTTP Server or related technologies. They must also be familiar with Linux/Unix operating systems and have basic network administration skills.

The cost of the exam varies depending on where you take it; however, it typically ranges from $150-$200 USD. Once you have passed the exam, you will receive an official certificate from the Apache Software Foundation that can be used to demonstrate your expertise in administering Apache HTTP Server.

6. Oracle Certified Expert, MySQL 5.7 Database Administrator

Oracle Certified Expert, MySQL 5.7 Database Administrator is a certification offered by Oracle that demonstrates expertise in the administration of MySQL 5.7 databases. This certification is designed for professionals who have experience in the installation, configuration, and management of MySQL 5.7 databases.

To get this certification, you must pass two exams: 1Z0-888 and 1Z0-889. The first exam covers topics such as installation, configuration, security, backup and recovery, performance tuning, and replication. The second exam covers topics such as data modeling and design principles, SQL statements and functions, optimization techniques, monitoring and troubleshooting MySQL databases. Both exams are multiple choice with a duration of 120 minutes each.

The cost for both exams is $245 USD each ($490 USD total). You can register for the exams online or through a Pearson VUE testing center. Once you have passed both exams successfully you will receive your Oracle Certified Expert – MySQL 5.7 Database Administrator certification from Oracle Corporation.

7. CompTIA Linux+ Certification

CompTIA Linux+ is a vendor-neutral certification that validates the skills of IT professionals who use Linux in their jobs. It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s ability to perform tasks related to system administration, configuration, maintenance, and troubleshooting of Linux systems. CompTIA Linux+ covers topics such as installation and configuration of the operating system, networking fundamentals, security, scripting, and more.

The CompTIA Linux+ certification exam takes approximately 90 minutes to complete and consists of 100 multiple-choice questions. To pass the exam, you must score at least 750 out of 900 points. The cost of the exam varies depending on your location but generally ranges from $200-$300 USD.

To get certified in CompTIA Linux+, you must first register for the exam through Pearson VUE or Prometric testing centers. You will then need to study for the exam using resources such as textbooks, online courses, practice tests and more. Once you have successfully passed the exam, you will receive an official CompTIA Linux+ certification from CompTIA.

8. Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE)

Red Hat Certified Engineer (RHCE) is a certification program offered by Red Hat, Inc. It is designed to demonstrate an individual’s proficiency in administering and configuring Red Hat Enterprise Linux (RHEL) systems. The RHCE certification is one of the most sought-after certifications in the IT industry, and it is highly valued among employers.

The RHCE exam consists of two parts: a hands-on lab exam and a multiple-choice exam. The hands-on lab portion requires that candidates complete real-world tasks on a live system within a specified time limit. The multiple-choice portion tests candidates’ knowledge of the concepts behind the tasks they completed during the lab exam.

It typically takes between three to six months to prepare for the RHCE exam, depending on your prior experience with Linux systems administration and your familiarity with Red Hat Enterprise Linux. To get started, you’ll need to purchase an official Red Hat study guide or take an online course from an accredited provider like edX or Coursera. Once you’ve studied up, you can register for the RHCE exam through Pearson VUE or Red Hat Training & Certification Exam Centers.

The cost of taking the RHCE exam varies depending on where you take it, but typically ranges from $400-$500 USD per attempt. You can also purchase practice exams from third-party providers for around $100 USD each to help prepare for the real thing.

9. Apache Tomcat Administration Certification

Apache Tomcat Administration Certification is an online certification program offered by the Apache Software Foundation (ASF). It is designed to help IT professionals develop their skills in administering and managing Apache Tomcat web servers. The certification is based on the ASF's Tomcat 7 and 8 certifications, which are designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the Apache Tomcat server architecture, configuration, deployment, and management.

The certification consists of two parts: a written exam and a practical exam. The written exam covers topics such as server architecture, installation, configuration, deployment, security, performance tuning, troubleshooting, and more. The practical exam involves hands-on tasks such as installing and configuring Apache Tomcat servers.

The certification process typically takes between 3 to 6 months depending on the individual's experience level. To get certified, individuals must first pass the written exam with a score of 70% or higher. After passing the written exam, individuals must then complete the practical exam within 6 months of passing the written exam. Once both exams have been successfully completed, individuals will receive their official certificate from ASF.

The cost for taking the Apache Tomcat Administration Certification varies depending on where you take it. Generally speaking it can range anywhere from $50-200 USD for both parts of the certification process.

10. Oracle Certified Expert, MySQL 5.6 Developer

Oracle Certified Expert, MySQL 5.6 Developer is a certification that proves an individual's knowledge and expertise in developing applications using the MySQL 5.6 Database Management System (DBMS). It is designed for developers who are looking to demonstrate their skills in designing, building, and deploying applications using the MySQL 5.6 DBMS.

This certification requires individuals to have a minimum of three years of experience with MySQL 5.6 development and be able to demonstrate their understanding of database design, SQL syntax, stored procedures, triggers, views, user management, and performance tuning.

In order to get this certification, you must pass the Oracle Certified Expert (OCE) exam which consists of 80 multiple-choice questions that must be completed within 90 minutes. The exam fee is $245 USD and can be taken at any Pearson VUE testing center worldwide.

The OCE exam covers topics such as database design principles; SQL syntax; stored procedures; triggers; views; user management; performance tuning; backup/recovery strategies; security best practices; and more. Additionally, it also tests your ability to troubleshoot common issues related to the use of MySQL 5.6 DBMS.

Once you have passed the OCE exam, you will receive an Oracle Certified Expert badge that you can display on your website or social media profiles as proof of your expertise in developing applications using MySQL 5.6 DBMS technology.

11. LAMP Stack Developer Certification

LAMP Stack Developer Certification is a professional certification program designed to validate the skills of developers who have expertise in building, deploying, and managing applications using the Linux, Apache, MySQL and PHP (LAMP) stack. The certification is offered by Linux Professional Institute (LPI), an international non-profit organization dedicated to providing vendor-neutral certifications for Linux and open source professionals.

The LPI LAMP Stack Developer Certification requires applicants to pass two exams: LPIC-2 Exam 201 and LPIC-2 Exam 202. To become certified, applicants must first pass the LPIC-2 Exam 201 which covers topics such as system architecture, installation and configuration of systems, network services, security and troubleshooting. After passing this exam, applicants must then pass the LPIC-2 Exam 202 which covers topics such as web server administration and web programming with PHP.

The total time required to complete the certification process varies depending on individual experience levels but typically takes between four to six months. During this period, applicants should focus on gaining knowledge in the areas covered by both exams through self-study or attending training courses. In addition to studying for the exams themselves, applicants should also practice their skills by setting up a LAMP stack environment and working with it regularly.

The total cost of obtaining LPI's LAMP Stack Developer Certification depends on several factors such as location of testing centers and exam fees charged by regional vendors. Generally speaking, it can cost anywhere from $200-$500 USD for both exams combined depending on where you take them.

Do You Really Need a LAMP Developer Certificate?

The answer to this question is largely dependent on your personal goals and career aspirations. If you are looking for a way to demonstrate your skills as a LAMP developer, then an official certification can be beneficial. It can be used to demonstrate knowledge of the technology and serve as proof that you have the necessary experience and qualifications to work in the field. However, if you are already working in the field, then a certification may not be necessary.

A certification can also be useful if you are trying to gain additional recognition within the industry or want to move up in your position. Having an official certificate can help employers identify that you possess certain skills and knowledge that they value. Additionally, it could help you stand out from other job applicants who may not possess such a credential.

Ultimately, whether or not an individual needs an official LAMP developer certificate depends on their own career objectives and current situation. If having a certificate will help them reach their goals, then it may be worth obtaining one. Otherwise, it may not be necessary for those who already have sufficient experience in the field or do not need additional credentials for their current position.

Related: LAMP Developer Resume Examples

FAQs About LAMP Developer Certifications

1. What is a LAMP Developer Certification?

Answer: A LAMP Developer Certification is a professional certification that demonstrates a developer's proficiency in the Linux, Apache, MySQL, and PHP (LAMP) stack of technologies.

2. How do I become certified?

Answer: To become certified, you must pass an exam that covers topics related to developing applications with LAMP technologies. You can find resources and study materials online to help prepare for the certification exam.

3. Is there any prerequisite knowledge required before taking the exam?

Answer: Yes, it is recommended that you have at least two years of experience working with Linux, Apache, MySQL and PHP in order to be successful on the certification exam. Additionally, having basic knowledge of HTML and JavaScript is beneficial when taking the exam.

4. Are there any other certifications that are related to LAMP development?

Answer: Yes, there are many other certifications available such as the Zend Certified PHP Engineer or Oracle Database Administrator Certified Professional which focus specifically on different aspects of web development using LAMP technologies.

5. How long does it take to complete the certification process?

Answer: The certification process typically takes about three months from start to finish depending on how much time you dedicate to studying for the exam and completing any required paperwork or other tasks associated with obtaining your certification.