AZ-305Microsoft Azure Solutions Architect Expert
Expert-level Azure architecture and design
Details last reviewed January 2026. Fees and exam formats change — always confirm on the official page.
About this certification
The AZ-305 validates expertise in designing Azure solutions covering compute, network, storage, security, and identity. This is the expert-level credential for cloud architects in Microsoft environments.
What you'll validate
- ✓Infrastructure design
- ✓Identity and security architecture
- ✓Business continuity design
- ✓Data storage solutions
- ✓Application architecture
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Expert-level designation — highly respected
- +Free annual renewal
- +Strong enterprise demand
Disadvantages
- −Requires AZ-104 as prerequisite
- −Annual renewal
- −Complex case study questions
Who it's for
Best for
- →Senior Azure engineers
- →Those who have AZ-104 and 3+ years experience
Not ideal for
- ×Beginners
- ×Those without AZ-104
Career paths this unlocks
AZ-305: quick answers
- How much does the AZ-305 exam cost?
- The listed exam fee is $165 (USD). 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-305?
- We estimate roughly 200 hours of study for most candidates; your time depends on prior experience.
- How long is the AZ-305 exam?
- The exam is 100 minutes with about 40 questions.
- How long is the AZ-305 credential valid?
- 1 year. Free annual renewal assessment
Study Resources
Contains affiliate linksTop picks for AZ-305
Register for the exam
Free practice assessments on Microsoft Learn; 50% discount exams often available via Microsoft events
More places to study
Self-paced video courses from independent instructors
Courses and certificates from universities and companies
Practice exams focused on AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud
Practice tests and hands-on labs for IT certifications
Printed and Kindle exam guides
Subscription video courses
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Jobs for AZ-305 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
- Exam Duration
- 100 minutes
- Questions
- ~40
- Passing Score
- 700/1000
- Exam Format
- Case Study
- Study Time
- ~200 hours
- Validity
- 1 year
- Salary Impact
- Strong (editorial rating)
- Last Reviewed
- January 2026
Prerequisites
- !AZ-104 required
- !3+ years Azure architecture experience
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