Databricks Spark
Databricks Certified Associate Developer for Apache Spark 3.0
The Databricks Certified Associate Developer for Apache Spark validates proficiency in using the Apache Spark Python and Scala APIs for large-scale data processing. It covers Spark architecture, DataFrame transformations, Spark SQL, Structured Streaming, and Delta Lake fundamentals — the core skills for data engineers and ML practitioners working on the Databricks Lakehouse Platform.
Databricks Spark Exam Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Databricks Certified Associate Developer for Apache Spark 3.0 |
| Governing Body | Databricks |
| Number of Questions | 60 |
| Time Limit | 120 minutes |
| Passing Score | 70% (42/60) |
| Exam Fee | $200 USD |
| Category | IT Certifications |
| C3RT App Available On | iPhone, iPad, and Mac |
| Official Source | Databricks official website ↗ |
Databricks Spark Content Areas and Domains
| Domain / Content Area | Exam Weight |
|---|---|
| Databricks Platform and Architecture | 15% |
| ELT with Apache Spark and Delta Lake | 30% |
| Incremental Data Processing | 25% |
| Production Pipelines | 20% |
| Data Governance | 10% |
Domain weights are approximate and based on the Databricks content outline. Always verify at the official source before your exam.
Topics Covered
- ✓ Spark Architecture — driver, executors, DAG, lazy evaluation, stages, shuffles
- ✓ DataFrame API — select, filter, groupBy, join, withColumn, aggregations
- ✓ DataFrame Transformations — narrow vs wide, repartition, coalesce, caching and persistence
- ✓ Spark SQL — temp views, catalog, built-in functions, window functions
- ✓ Structured Streaming — streaming DataFrames, triggers, watermarking, output modes
- ✓ Delta Lake — ACID transactions, schema enforcement, time travel, MERGE, VACUUM
- ✓ Databricks Lakehouse Architecture — Unity Catalog, Delta Sharing, Databricks SQL
How C3RT Helps You Pass the Databricks Spark
Adaptive Practice
Questions adapt to your weak areas automatically so every study session on the Databricks Spark is time well spent.
Diagnostic Mocks
Full-length mock exams timed to the real Databricks Spark format with detailed score breakdowns by topic.
Mistake Bank
Every wrong answer is saved for targeted re-drill. The system resurfaces your mistakes until they stick.
Native on iOS & Mac
Built with SwiftUI, not a web wrapper. Instant load, offline support, hardware-speed rendering.
Databricks Spark Frequently Asked Questions
What does Databricks Spark stand for?
Databricks Spark stands for Databricks Certified Associate Developer for Apache Spark 3.0. It is administered by Databricks.
Who administers the Databricks Spark?
The Databricks Certified Associate Developer for Apache Spark 3.0 (Databricks Spark) is administered by Databricks. For official information, visit the Databricks website.
How many questions is the Databricks Spark?
The Databricks Spark consists of 60 questions. Candidates are given 120 minutes to complete the exam.
What is the passing score for the Databricks Spark?
The passing score for the Databricks Spark is 70% (42/60), as set by Databricks. Scoring methodology and passing standards may be updated periodically. Always verify current requirements with the governing body.
How much does the Databricks Spark exam cost?
The Databricks Spark exam fee is $200 USD. This fee is set by Databricks and may vary by testing centre, region, or membership status. Additional fees for registration or rescheduling may apply.
What language is used in the Databricks Spark Developer exam?
The exam is available in Python and Scala. Most candidates choose Python (PySpark). The exam tests the DataFrame and Dataset APIs — questions focus on practical data transformation patterns, optimization, and Structured Streaming, not low-level RDD operations.
Is Delta Lake heavily tested on this exam?
Yes — Delta Lake is a significant portion of the exam. Key topics include ACID transaction guarantees, schema enforcement, time travel (VERSION AS OF, TIMESTAMP AS OF), MERGE operations (upserts), and VACUUM for file cleanup. Delta Lake is foundational to all Databricks workloads.
What is lazy evaluation in Spark?
Spark operations are divided into transformations (lazy) and actions (eager). Transformations like filter(), select(), and join() don't execute — they build a DAG. Actions like count(), collect(), show(), and write() trigger execution. The exam frequently tests understanding of this distinction and its implications for optimization.
What certifications come after Databricks Spark Associate?
Databricks Professional certifications include Databricks Certified Professional Data Engineer, Databricks Certified Machine Learning Professional, and Databricks Certified Data Analyst Associate. The professional-level exams are significantly harder and cover Unity Catalog, production pipeline design, and advanced ML workflows.
C3RT is a native iOS and macOS exam preparation platform covering the Databricks Certified Associate Developer for Apache Spark 3.0 (Databricks Spark), a IT Certifications certification, administered by Databricks. C3RT is not affiliated with or endorsed by Databricks. Certification names and trademarks are the property of their respective organisations. For official exam registration, eligibility requirements, and content outlines, visit the Databricks official website ↗ .