SF Dev ISalesforce Platform Developer I
Build custom apps and automations on the Salesforce platform
Details last reviewed January 2026. Fees and exam formats change — always confirm on the official page.
About this certification
The Salesforce Platform Developer I certification validates ability to build custom applications on the Salesforce Lightning Platform using Apex (Salesforce's Java-like language), SOQL, LWC (Lightning Web Components), and declarative tools. Developers who earn this credential can extend Salesforce beyond what admins can configure, opening the path to senior developer and architect roles.
What you'll validate
- ✓Apex programming (triggers, classes, async Apex)
- ✓SOQL and SOSL queries
- ✓Lightning Web Components (LWC)
- ✓Salesforce data model and governor limits
- ✓Test-driven development in Apex (75% code coverage required)
- ✓Declarative automation (Flow, Process Builder)
- ✓Salesforce security model (sharing rules, profiles, permission sets)
Pros & Cons
Advantages
- +Entry point to the Salesforce developer career path
- +Trailhead Superbadges provide hands-on practice for free
- +Combines well with Salesforce Admin for admin-developer hybrid roles
- +High demand — most large enterprises run on Salesforce
Disadvantages
- −Apex is proprietary — skills not directly transferable to other platforms
- −Requires maintenance exams with every Salesforce release (3x/year)
- −150+ study hours — steeper than admin cert
Who it's for
Best for
- →Salesforce Admins looking to move into development roles
- →Developers adding Salesforce to their technical portfolio
- →CRM engineers at enterprise organizations running Salesforce
Not ideal for
- ×Organizations not using Salesforce
- ×Front-end developers without interest in enterprise CRM development
Career paths this unlocks
SF Dev I: quick answers
- How much does the SF Dev I exam cost?
- The listed exam fee is $200 (USD). $100 per retake; free practice via Trailhead Superbadges Fees vary by region and change over time — confirm on the official page before you buy.
- How long does it take to prepare for SF Dev I?
- We estimate roughly 150 hours of study for most candidates; your time depends on prior experience.
- How long is the SF Dev I exam?
- The exam is 105 minutes with about 60 questions.
- How long is the SF Dev I credential valid?
- 1 year. Maintenance exam required with each Salesforce release (3x/year)
Study Resources
Contains affiliate linksRegister for the exam
Register through Trailhead — Salesforce offers free maintenance exam retakes
More places to study
Self-paced video courses from independent instructors
Courses and certificates from universities and companies
Practice tests and hands-on labs for IT certifications
Printed and Kindle exam guides
Subscription video courses
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Jobs for SF Dev I 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
- $200 ($100 per retake; free practice via Trailhead Superbadges)
- Exam Duration
- 105 minutes
- Questions
- ~60
- Passing Score
- 65% (39/60 correct)
- Exam Format
- Multiple Choice
- Study Time
- ~150 hours
- Validity
- 1 year
- Salary Impact
- Strong (editorial rating)
- Last Reviewed
- January 2026
Prerequisites
- !Salesforce Certified Administrator recommended but not required
Provider
Salesforce
CRM platform certifications for admins, developers, and consultants
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