Updated: November 10, 2025 • Reading time: ~9 min
The Google Cloud Digital Leader certification validates cloud literacy and your ability to link Google Cloud capabilities to business outcomes. This guide covers the exam format, domains & weights, costs, a 6-week study plan, and exam-day tips—without violating NDA.
Outline
- What is the Cloud Digital Leader certification?
- Who should take it (and why it matters)
- Exam format, fees, validity & prerequisites
- Exam domains & approximate weighting
- 6-week study plan
- Exam-day tips
- Next steps after you pass
- FAQs
What is the Google Cloud Digital Leader certification?
CDL is a foundational credential for professionals who need to articulate how Google Cloud products—data, AI, infrastructure, security, and operations—support enterprise goals. It’s role-agnostic and business-outcome focused (less hands-on engineering).
Who should take it & why it matters
Great fit for
- Business leaders, PMs, sales/SEs, consultants
- New-to-cloud technologists needing the big picture
- Anyone driving cloud adoption or transformation
Benefits
- Signal verified cloud literacy to employers
- Speak the language of data, AI, and modernization
- Build a pathway to Associate/Professional Google Cloud certs
Exam format, cost, validity & prerequisites
| Exam | Cloud Digital Leader (standard) Foundational |
|---|---|
| Length | Standard: 90 minutes • Renewal: 45 minutes |
| Questions | Standard: 50–60 MCQ • Renewal: 20 MCQ |
| Fee | Standard: US$99 • Renewal: US$60 (plus tax) |
| Languages | Standard: EN, JA, ES, PT, FR • Renewal: EN, JA |
| Delivery | Online-proctored or test center |
| Validity | 3 years |
| Prerequisites | None (experience collaborating with technical teams is recommended) |
All facts above are from Google’s official CDL page and exam guide.
Exam domains & approximate weighting
| Domain | Approx. weight |
|---|---|
| Digital Transformation with Google Cloud | ~17% |
| Exploring Data Transformation with Google Cloud | ~16% |
| Innovating with Google Cloud Artificial Intelligence | ~16% |
| Modernizing Infrastructure & Applications with Google Cloud | ~17% |
| Trust & Security with Google Cloud | ~17% |
| Scaling with Google Cloud Operations | Remaining % |
See the official PDF for the full list of objectives and sample sub-topics.
6-week Cloud Digital Leader study plan
Weeks 1–2: Core cloud literacy
- Read the official Exam Guide (PDF) end-to-end.
- Follow the CDL learning path on Google Cloud Skills Boost.
- Refresh core concepts: IaaS/PaaS/SaaS, shared responsibility, TCO, OpEx vs CapEx.
Weeks 3–4: Dive into exam domains
- Data: BigQuery, Cloud Storage classes, databases vs data warehouses vs lakes.
- AI: Pre-trained APIs (Vision, Speech, Natural Language, Translation), Vertex AI & AutoML.
- Modernization & Security: GKE, Cloud Run/App Engine/Cloud Functions, IAM, encryption, DDoS protection.
Week 5: Scenario practice
- Do sample questions from Google to understand format and pacing.
- Use a realistic simulator to practice “best-fit” choices for business scenarios.
Week 6: Final polish
- Revisit weak domains; build a one-page cheat sheet of service names & use cases.
- Dry-run with one timed full-length practice test.
Exam-day tips
- Expect business-scenario questions; look for the most business-aligned answer.
- Don’t linger—mark, move on, and review flagged items at the end.
- Know names & fit: BigQuery (analytics), Cloud Storage classes (cost vs access), GKE/Cloud Run (modern app paths).
- For online proctoring, check ID, webcam, internet, and quiet space beforehand.
After you pass
- Add your badge to LinkedIn and resume.
- Consider next steps: Associate Cloud Engineer (hands-on) or role-specific tracks.
- Keep skills fresh—follow Google Cloud release notes and case studies.
FAQs
What is the passing score?
Google does not publish an exact passing score. Focus on mastering objectives and consistent practice performance.
Is hands-on experience required?
No formal prerequisite. Practical familiarity with cloud concepts and common Google Cloud services is very helpful.
Can I take the exam online?
Yes—take it online (proctored) or at a test center.
How long is the certification valid?
3 years. You can renew via a shorter 45-minute, 20-question renewal exam when eligible.
How much does CDL cost?
Standard exam: US$99; renewal exam: US$60 (plus tax).
Which languages are available?
Standard: English, Japanese, Spanish, Portuguese, French. Renewal: English, Japanese.
Sources (official)
- Google Cloud — Cloud Digital Leader (About, fees, duration, renewal)
- Google Cloud — Cloud Digital Leader Exam Guide (PDF)
- Google Cloud — Cloud Skills Boost: CDL Learning Path
Get exam-ready with CertifHub
Simulate the real interface, drill domain-weighted questions, and track your weak spots.
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