AZ-204Microsoft Azure Developer Associate
Build and deploy cloud applications on Microsoft Azure
Details last reviewed October 2026. Fees and exam formats change — always confirm on the official page.
About this certification
The AZ-204 Azure Developer Associate certification validates skills in designing, building, testing, and maintaining cloud applications and services on Microsoft Azure. Covers Azure App Service, Azure Functions, Cosmos DB, Azure Storage, API Management, and authentication with Microsoft Identity. The primary certification for developers building on the Azure platform.
What you'll validate
- ✓Azure App Service and containerized applications
- ✓Azure Functions and serverless compute
- ✓Azure Cosmos DB and Storage solutions
- ✓Azure Active Directory and Microsoft Identity authentication
- ✓API Management and Azure API Gateway
- ✓Message-based solutions (Service Bus, Event Grid, Event Hub)
- ✓Monitoring with Application Insights
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Azure is second in cloud market share — developer skills are in high demand
- +Pairs naturally with AZ-104 for a full Azure associate credential portfolio
- +Free annual renewal keeps the cert current without repaying exam fees
- +Microsoft Learn provides free, comprehensive study materials
Disadvantages
- −Annual renewal assessment (free but required)
- −Breadth of coverage makes thorough preparation time-intensive
- −Less prestigious than AWS SAA in some markets outside Microsoft-heavy enterprises
Who it's for
Best for
- →Backend developers building APIs and services on Azure
- →Full-stack developers at Microsoft-ecosystem companies
- →Those building toward Azure Solutions Architect Expert (AZ-305)
Not ideal for
- ×Infrastructure/ops-focused professionals (see AZ-104 instead)
- ×Teams not building on Microsoft Azure
Career paths this unlocks
AZ-204: quick answers
- How much does the AZ-204 exam cost?
- The listed exam fee is $165 (USD). Microsoft Certification exam standard price Fees vary by region and change over time — confirm on the official page before you buy.
- How long does it take to prepare for AZ-204?
- We estimate roughly 120 hours of study for most candidates; your time depends on prior experience.
- How long is the AZ-204 exam?
- The exam is 100 minutes with about 40 questions.
- How long is the AZ-204 credential valid?
- 1 year. Free annual renewal assessment required
Study resources
This exam is retired, so we no longer list prep courses or practice tests for it. Check the official page for the issuer's current options.
Jobs for AZ-204 holders
Pay depends on role, location, and experience more than on any single credential. Check current postings below for real ranges in your market.
LinkedIn Jobs
Posted in the last 7 days
Indeed
Dice (tech roles)
Tech-focused job board
Job links open external sites. Search results are live and not curated by MyCertPath.
Quick Facts
- Exam Cost
- $165 (Microsoft Certification exam standard price)
- Exam Duration
- 100 minutes
- Questions
- ~40
- Passing Score
- 700/1000
- Exam Format
- Multiple Choice
- Study Time
- ~120 hours
- Validity
- 1 year
- Salary Impact
- Strong (editorial rating)
- Last Reviewed
- October 2026
Prerequisites
- !1–2 years Azure development experience recommended; AZ-900 helpful
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