Many students and professionals ask how to get Google AdWords certified. The good news: it is free and can be done online. Two things have changed over the years:
What changed: Google AdWords was renamed Google Ads in 2018, and Google’s training moved from Google Partners and Academy for Ads to Google Skillshop (skillshop.withgoogle.com). Older exams such as AdWords Fundamentals, Mobile Sites, Digital Sales and the Google Analytics Individual Qualification (GAIQ) have been retired or replaced.
Google Ads certifications available today
| Certification | What it covers |
|---|---|
| Google Ads Search | Creating, managing and optimising Search campaigns, keywords, bidding and responsive search ads. |
| Google Ads Display | Display campaigns, audiences, creatives and reach across the Google Display Network. |
| Google Ads Video | YouTube and video campaigns for awareness, consideration and action. |
| Shopping ads | Merchant Center, product feeds and Shopping / Performance Max for retail. |
| Google Ads Apps | App campaigns for installs and in-app actions. |
| Google Ads Measurement | Conversion tracking, attribution and measurement solutions. |
| AI-Powered Performance Ads | Using Google’s AI-driven campaigns such as Performance Max and Demand Gen. |
| Google Ads Creative | Creating effective ads and assets across formats. |
| Google Analytics | GA4 set-up, data collection, reports and analysis (replaces GAIQ). |
The list changes from time to time, so check Skillshop for the current catalogue.
How to get certified: step by step
- Go to Google Skillshop and sign in with your Google account.
- Choose a certification — Google Ads Search is the best place to start.
- Complete the free learning path (videos and lessons) for that certification.
- Take the assessment online.
- Pass, and download your certificate — and add it to LinkedIn and your resume.
Things to know before the exam
- Anyone can take the exams, and they are free.
- You are certified as an individual.
- You need a score of at least 80% to pass.
- Most assessments are timed (typically around an hour) with multiple-choice questions.
- If you fail, you can retake the assessment after a short waiting period (usually 24 hours).
- Certifications are valid for one year; renew them by retaking the assessment.
How to prepare
- Complete the Skillshop learning path — the questions are based on it.
- Practise in a real Google Ads account (even with a small budget) or a demo account.
- Learn the key terms: Quality Score, ad rank, match types, bidding strategies, conversion tracking, Performance Max.
- Take notes on campaign types and when to use each one.
Advantages of Google certifications
- Free, official training material from Google.
- Recognised by employers and clients worldwide.
- Proof of skills to show in interviews and on LinkedIn.
- Required for agencies to qualify for Google Partner status.
- A structured way to learn the platform in depth.
Go beyond the certificate: run real campaigns with expert guidance in our Performance Marketing course. Also read: Looker Studio certification guide.
Frequently asked questions
Is Google Ads certification free?
Yes. All Google Ads and Google Analytics certifications on Skillshop are free.
Which Google Ads certification should I take first?
Google Ads Search is the most common starting point, followed by Measurement, Display and Video depending on your role.
How long is Google Ads certification valid?
One year. You renew it by passing the assessment again.
Is AdWords certification the same as Google Ads certification?
Yes. AdWords was renamed Google Ads in 2018; today’s certifications are the Google Ads certifications on Skillshop.
