Salesforce Platform Developer Certification
A Salesforce certification (Platform Developer I and II) that validates a developer's ability to build custom applications on the Lightning Platform using Apex, Visualforce, Lightning components, and SOQL.
Definition
A Salesforce certification (Platform Developer I and II) that validates a developer's ability to build custom applications on the Lightning Platform using Apex, Visualforce, Lightning components, and SOQL.
In plain English
“The Salesforce Platform Developer Certification (I and II) validates a developer's ability to build custom apps on the Lightning Platform using Apex, Visualforce, Lightning components, and Salesforce APIs. Platform Dev I is entry-level; Platform Dev II is advanced.”
Worked example
A junior developer on Banner Construction's IT team holds the Platform Developer I certification and is studying for Platform Developer II to qualify for a senior-developer role her manager has flagged. Over six weeks she works through Trailhead's PDII trail mix - advanced Apex topics like async patterns, governor limits, integration design - and supplements with a mock-exam workbook. She schedules the proctored exam at a Pearson VUE testing center and passes on the first sit. The certification doesn't teach her anything she didn't already do at work, but it is the credential the company's promotion rubric requires; with PDII complete, she clears the criteria and gets the senior-developer title two months later.
Why Salesforce Platform Developer Certification matters
The Salesforce Platform Developer Certification (Platform Developer I and II) validates a developer's ability to build custom applications on the Lightning Platform using Apex, Visualforce, Lightning components, and Salesforce APIs. Platform Developer I covers foundational development skills; Platform Developer II covers advanced topics including integration, testing, and complex business logic.
These certifications are the standard credentials for Salesforce developers. Platform Dev I is typically the first certification a developer earns, demonstrating competence in Apex, SOQL, Lightning components, and platform fundamentals. Platform Dev II is significantly more difficult and demonstrates advanced skills. Mature developer careers build on these certifications toward specialized credentials.
How organizations use Salesforce Platform Developer Certification
Requires Platform Developer I for all developers and encourages Platform Developer II as career advancement.
Uses Platform Developer certifications as evidence of development capability when hiring.
Treats certification as part of developer professional growth, with study time supported by the company.
Trust & references
Straight from the source - Salesforce's reference material on Salesforce Platform Developer Certification.
Test your knowledge
Q1. What do Platform Developer Certifications validate?
Q2. What's the difference between I and II?
Q3. Which should you earn first?
Discussion
Loading discussion…