Azure Solutions Architect (AZ-305)
Offered by Microsoft
Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert is earned by passing AZ-305 (Designing Microsoft Azure Infrastructure Solutions). Unlike AZ-104...
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Azure Solutions Architect (AZ-305) exam at a glance
Format
Typically 40–60 questions: multiple choice, case studies, drag-and-drop, and hot-area items (Microsoft does not publish an exact count)
Duration
120 minutes
Delivery
Pearson VUE test center or online proctored
Passing score
700 on a scale of 1–1000
Exam cost
$165 USD
Validity
1 year; renew free via an online assessment on Microsoft Learn
Prerequisites
AZ-104 (Azure Administrator Associate) is required
About the Azure Solutions Architect (AZ-305) certification
Microsoft Certified: Azure Solutions Architect Expert is earned by passing AZ-305 (Designing Microsoft Azure Infrastructure Solutions). Unlike AZ-104, this exam is design-focused: identity and governance, data storage, business continuity, and infrastructure — with case-study style questions.
AZ-104 (Azure Administrator) is a required prerequisite. The expert certification renews annually via a free Microsoft Learn assessment.
Who it’s for: Architects and senior engineers who design Azure infrastructure for the business.
Official exam page· Details verified August 2026
Exam details can change. Always confirm current requirements, fees, and exam policies with the certification provider before registering.
What the Azure Solutions Architect (AZ-305) exam covers
- Design identity, governance, and monitoring solutions25–30%
- Design data storage solutions20–25%
- Design business continuity solutions15–20%
- Design infrastructure solutions30–35%
How to study for the Azure Solutions Architect (AZ-305)
- 1Earn AZ-104 first — it is a prerequisite, not optional background.
- 2Follow the AZ-305 learning path on Microsoft Learn.
- 3Practice design decisions: Hub-Spoke, identity (Entra ID), backup vs. archive, and SKU selection.
- 4Work case studies: read requirements and constraints before looking at the questions.
- 5Use Microsoft's official practice assessment.
Azure Solutions Architect (AZ-305) — frequently asked questions
Can I take AZ-305 without AZ-104?
No. Azure Solutions Architect Expert requires AZ-104. Pass Administrator, then Architect.
How often do I renew?
Every year, with a free online assessment on Microsoft Learn if you recertify before expiration.
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