Interested in taking the VCP-DCP? Long-time VMware vExpert and Pluralsight author Matt Allford shares everything you need to know about getting this certification.

The VMware Certified Professional – Data Center Virtualization (VCP-DCV) is VMware’s flagship certification. If you’re interested in getting it, or already studying to take the exam, this article is for you.

This article overviews what the VCP-DCV is, what to expect (from my personal experience), and the recent and upcoming changes to the certification requirements.

Table of contents

1. Before we start: A terminology primer
2. Latest updates: The vSphere 7.x exam is on the way out
3. What is the VCP-DCV?
4. What are the benefits of getting VCP-DCV certified?
5. Who should get VCP-DCV certified?
6. Are there any requirements for the VCP-DCV 2023?
7. How is the VCP-DCV scored?
8. How long is the VCP-DCV valid for?
9. How much does the VCP-DCV cost?
10. What should I expect when taking the VCP-DCV exam?
11. How many questions are on the VCP-DCV exam?
12. How long does the VCP-DCV exam take?
13. How should I prepare for the VCP-DCV?
14.  

Before we start: A terminology primer

The terminology around the VCP-DCV can be a bit confusing. Namely, the terms certification and exam are sometimes used interchangeably.

The current certification is called the VMware Certified Professional – Data Center Virtualization 2023 (VCP-DCV 2023). Much like any certification, you’ve got to pass an exam, and also meet a few other requirements. There are currently two qualifying exams, and you need to pass one of these: