Trials and demos
How to buy
CCDE Exams and Training

CCDE

Exams and training

Overview Exams and training Community Resources

New CCDE Specialist certifications coming 2025.

Learn more

What you need to know

Exam basics

  • Exams are delivered in a secure environment by proctors, either online or at testing centers.
  • Grading is pass/fail, and your results are available online, usually within 48 hours.
  • Exams are available worldwide in English, and some are available in additional languages.

Training basics

  • Multiple training options are available, so you can study whenever and however you want.
  • Choose from Cisco U., self-paced e-learning courses, labs, and simulators, practice tests, and more.
  • If you're already certified, Cisco training earns you Cisco Continuing Education credits toward recertification.

Pass two required exams

CCDE Written Exam v3.0

This exam validate that you have expert-level knowledge in the topics and skills integral to designing even the most complex network solutions. Be ready to gather and clarify network functional requirements, design networks to meet these requirements, develop implementation plans, and convey design decisions and their rationale.

Exam cost: US$450, or redeem Cisco Learning Credits
Exam duration: 120 minutes

View CCDE written exam details

CCDE Practical Exam v3.0

This is an 8-hour modular, scenario-based exam that gives you the flexibility to focus on your area of expertise, in addition to validating core enterprise architecture technologies.

Exam cost: US$1,600, or redeem Cisco Learning Credits
Exam duration: 8 hours

View CCDE practical exam details

New CCDE Specialist certs coming 2025

Exciting changes are coming to the CCDE exams in 2025. You’ll still take both the CCDE written and practical exams to earn your CCDE certification – However, beginning February 2025, passing the written exam earns you the CCDE Expert Specialist certification, and passing the practical exam will earn you an Expert Specialist certification in at least one area of your choice: AI Infrastructure (new!), Large Scale Networks, On-Prem and Cloud Services, or Workforce Mobility. You can decide which of these electives you’d like to pursue when you begin the practical exam. Cisco Live attendees will be able to test for the new AI Infrastructure elective on February 9, 2025, as well as all other expert-level exams, like CCIE and DevNet Expert.

Learn more

Preparing for your exam

​​Since everyone learns differently, we offer a variety of resources to help you study for your exam. Explore the options to find what works best for you.​

Cisco U.

Learn your way with a curriculum tailored to your interests, skills, and certification goals.

Learn more about Cisco U.

Instructor-led training

​​Join lively classroom-style learning and discussions, online or in person, that are led by Cisco and our Learning Partners.​ 

Find training

Additional training

Access a rich library of technology and certification training, study bundles, practice exams, simulators, and more.

Explore all training

Not sure where to start?

In the CCDE certification community, you can ask questions, share ideas, and connect with other members as you prepare for your certification exams.
Two people talk in front of a computer

Transform your team with training for organizations

Upskill your entire team in an interactive, real-world environment. Led by expert instructors, group training encourages collaboration and takes your team’s productivity to the next level.

Explore enterprise training

We're here to help

If you have questions about getting certified, we’ve got answers. Learn how to register for an exam, check your certification status, and open a case about your certification.

Get support