Docker Certified Associate (DCA)

cloud Associate Updated: 2025-01-15 Methodology

The Docker Certified Associate (DCA) certification validates your expertise with Docker containerization technologies, including container orchestration, image management, networking, security, and storage. Now administered by Mirantis, this certification is widely recognized and demonstrates proficiency in one of the most essential DevOps technologies.

$115K
Avg Salary
55%
Pass Rate
15.0K
Job Listings
60h
Study Time
$195
Exam Cost

Exam Details

Exam CodeDCA
Exam Cost$195 USD
Duration90 minutes
Questions55
Passing Score65%
ProviderMirantis (formerly Docker)
Difficulty7/10

Salary Data

Professionals holding the Docker Certified Associate (DCA) certification earn between $90,000 and $145,000 annually, with an average of $115,000.

Job market demand trend: Stable

Prerequisites

  • 6+ months Docker experience
  • Basic Linux administration skills

Skills Covered

Docker EngineContainer OrchestrationImage Creation & ManagementNetworkingSecurityStorage & VolumesDocker SwarmKubernetes Basics

Best Study Resources

Official

Mirantis DCA Study Guide

 Documentation

Docker Official Documentation

 Course

Kodekloud — Docker Certified Associate Course

 Practice Exams

Whizlabs DCA Practice Tests

Comparisons Featuring Docker Certified Associate (DCA)

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Docker DCA certification still valid after Mirantis acquired Docker Enterprise?
Yes. Mirantis continues to administer the DCA certification program. The exam content and recognition remain intact, and it is still widely accepted across the industry.
How hard is the DCA exam?
The DCA is considered moderately difficult with an estimated 55% pass rate. It covers a wide range of Docker topics and requires both theoretical knowledge and practical experience with container workflows.
Should I get the DCA or CKA first?
If your focus is on Docker containers and their ecosystem, start with the DCA. If you're already working heavily with Kubernetes, the CKA may be more immediately valuable. Many professionals pursue both as they complement each other.

Data Sources

  • Salary data — Aggregated from job postings and salary surveys (US median)
  • Job listings — Active postings across major job boards
  • Pass rates — Community-reported estimates (not official vendor data)
  • Exam details — Mirantis (formerly Docker) official documentation