The CKAD (Certified Kubernetes Application Developer) is a performance-based exam from the CNCF/Linux Foundation. Unlike multiple choice tests, you work in a live Kubernetes cluster — you must know your kubectl commands cold and be able to write YAML from memory under time pressure. Exam details (2024/2025): Duration: 2 hours Format: Performance-based, hands-on in a live cluster (Kubernetes v1.31+) Pass mark: 66% Cost: $395 (includes one free retake) Current Exam Domains Domain Weight Application Design and Build 20% Application Deployment 20% Application Environment, Configuration and Security 25% Application Observability and Maintenance 15% Services and Networking 20% The Environment, Configuration and Security domain carries the most weight — ConfigMaps, Secrets, SecurityContexts, and resource limits are tested heavily.