The AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner is the entry-level AWS certification. It covers cloud concepts, core AWS services, security, and billing and pricing. It’s the most common first step into AWS for technical and non-technical people.
I passed the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner (CLF-C02) on 4 January 2026. On this page you’ll find what the exam covers, how I’d prepare if I were starting today, a free study plan, and ways to work with me if you want help getting across the line.
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How I passed
What the exam covers
The CLF-C02 exam guide has four domains:
- Cloud concepts
- Security and compliance
- Cloud technology and services
- Billing, pricing and support
Exam format
- 65 questions in 90 minutes
- Passing score: 700 out of 1000
- Valid for three years
Exam details change. Check the official exam page before you book. Official AWS Cloud Practitioner page.
Who it’s for
Anyone new to AWS: career changers, students, sales, finance and project staff, and IT pros who want a foundation before an Associate exam.
How to prepare
- Know the AWS shared responsibility model inside and out.
- Learn the core services by category: compute, storage, databases, networking and security.
- Understand the pricing models, the support plans and the cost tools.
- Know the six pillars of the AWS Well-Architected Framework.
- Use AWS Skill Builder’s free Cloud Practitioner Essentials course and the official practice questions.
Free AWS Cloud Practitioner study plan
Get my step-by-step AWS Cloud Practitioner study plan by email: what to study each week, the resources worth your time, and a checklist for the week before the exam. It’s free.
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AWS Cloud Practitioner course
If you’d rather follow a structured path, my AWS Cloud Practitioner course walks you through every exam domain with lessons, labs where they apply, and practice questions. You can also browse practice exams and guides in the store.
Book a session
Stuck on a domain, failed once already, or short on time? In a 1:1 session we go through where you are, what’s left, and a plan to get you to exam day. Book a session, or see 1:1 certification coaching. Training a team? Ask about corporate team training.
Verify
I hold the AWS Certified Cloud Practitioner certification. Passed 4 January 2026.
What to take next
Where to go next: