Overview
The Certified Kubernetes Administrator (CKA) exam is run by the Linux Foundation together with the Cloud Native Computing Foundation. It tests whether you can set up, run and fix Kubernetes clusters. It is a hands-on exam: you solve tasks at a command line rather than answer multiple-choice questions. It is taken online under remote supervision, so there is no fixed national centre or country.
Who can apply
The Linux Foundation lists no prerequisites for the CKA. Anyone can register.
Exam pattern
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Format | Online, proctored, performance-based |
| Duration | 2 hours |
| Tasks | 15 to 20 command-line tasks |
| Environment | Linux hosts reached over SSH, with kubectl, yq, curl, wget and man pages available |
| Kubernetes version | v1.35 at the time of review |
| Reference material | Official documentation may be used during the exam |
The exam environment is updated to the newest Kubernetes minor version about 4 to 8 weeks after that version is released.
Proctoring is done remotely through streaming audio, video and screen sharing. You must stay on camera, keep your workspace clear and not run other applications. The Linux Foundation states it has zero tolerance for misconduct, and a score can be revoked.
Syllabus
The exam is weighted by domain.
| Domain | Weight |
|---|---|
| Troubleshooting | 30% |
| Cluster Architecture, Installation and Configuration | 25% |
| Services and Networking | 20% |
| Workloads and Scheduling | 15% |
| Storage | 10% |
Marking and results
The Linux Foundation pages read for this file do not state a passing score. Results are sent by email about 24 hours after you finish the exam.
Fees
For 2026, as listed on the official site:
| Option | Price (US dollars) |
|---|---|
| Exam only | $445 |
| Exam plus THRIVE-ONE annual subscription | $625 |
| Exam plus Kubernetes Fundamentals course | $645 |
How to apply
Buy the exam through the Linux Foundation training site, then schedule your sitting. You have 12 months from purchase to schedule and take the exam.
After the exam
The certification is valid for 2 years. Your purchase includes one free retake, so you get two attempts in total.
Preparation tips
Practise on a real cluster from the command line, since every task is hands-on.
Spend the most time on troubleshooting, which carries the largest weight.
Get used to searching the official Kubernetes documentation quickly, because it is the only reference you can use.
Your purchase includes two simulator attempts on Killer.sh, each lasting 36 hours and containing 17 questions. Use them to practise under time pressure.
Is the CKA multiple choice?
No. It is a performance-based exam where you complete 15 to 20 tasks at a command line within 2 hours.
Can I use documentation during the exam?
Yes, the official documentation is allowed. Other applications must not be running on your machine.
How long is the certification valid?
Two years from certification.