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, this exam is design-focused: identity and governance, data storage, business continuity, and infrastructure — with case-study style questions.
EXAM AT A GLANCE
Questions
40–60
Testing time
120
minutes
Sections
4
Delivery
Pearson VUE test center or online proctored
Passing score
700
Cost
$165 USD
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What the exam covers
Design identity, governance, and monitoring solutions
25–30%
Design data storage solutions
20–25%
Design business continuity solutions
15–20%
Design infrastructure solutions
30–35%
About the Azure Solutions Architect (AZ-305) certification
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.
- Passing score
- 700 on a scale of 1–1000
- Validity
- 1 year; renew free via an online assessment on Microsoft Learn
- Prerequisites
- AZ-104 (Azure Administrator Associate) is required
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.
How to prepare
01
Earn AZ-104 first — it is a prerequisite, not optional background.
02
Follow the AZ-305 learning path on Microsoft Learn.
03
Practice design decisions: Hub-Spoke, identity (Entra ID), backup vs. archive, and SKU selection.
04
Work case studies: read requirements and constraints before looking at the questions.
05
Use Microsoft's official practice assessment.
FAQ
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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