It makes no sense at all that VMware is adding expiration dates to certs that have version numbers. Cisco & Microsoft certs do not have versions, so it makes sense for them to have an expiration date. I have not seen a good explanation from the certification team why an expiration has been added.
There has been so much discussion on the VMware Communities about the VCP5-DCV Delta Recertification Exam.
Originally the exam was only going to be offered until Nov 30th 2014. Then VMware extended the exam to March 10th 2015. Not sure why VMware did this, but my personal opinion was not enough people were taking the exam, so VMware extended the end date to try to recoup costs of creating the exam.
I think everyone has forgotten that the Delta exam is not your only option to re-certify your VCP5-DV.
You have four options to re-certify you VCP5-DV :
- Pass the current exam for the VCP certification you currently hold. For example, a VCP3 could recertify by passing the current VCP5-Data Center Virtualization (VCP5-DCV) exam.
- Earn a new VCP certification in a different solution track. For example, a VCP-Cloud could recertify by earning a VCP-Desktop (VCP5-DT) certification.
- Advance to the next level by earning a VMware Certified Advanced Professional (VCAP) certification. For example, a VCP5-DCV could earn VCAP5-DCA certification.
- For current VCP5-DCV holders who took the VCP510, there is a limted-time, streamlined exam option just for you. This exam is only available through March 10, 2015 so act fast.
You can check VMwares re-certification policy for all the official details.
In my opinion the Delta exam is a waste of time and money. After taking the Delta exam, you are still only VCP5-DV.
I decided to learn something new and take a VCP exam in a different track – VCP-NV. So last week I took and passed the VCP-NV exam.
Now my VCP5-DV expiration date has been extended –
Don’t waste your time with the Delta exam. Push yourself to learn something new and take a VCP in a different track or take a VCAP exam!
Marc Crawford 