The short version
You get 120 minutes for 59 scored multiple-choice questions, with no test aids allowed. The exam is in English, proctored (online or at a test center), and valid for two years. Databricks does not publish a passing score, so plan for solid, consistent readiness rather than a target percentage.
Questions and time
Databricks lists 59 scored questions and a time limit of 120 minutes. Do the arithmetic and you get a little over two minutes per question. That sounds generous until you meet the question style. Many stems describe a team, its data, and two or three constraints, and the answer options are full sentences or short lists of actions. Reading takes a good share of the time.
The exam may also contain unscored items. Databricks says they are used to gather statistics, they are not identified on the form, they do not affect your score, and extra time is factored in for them. In practice this means you should treat every question as scored. A question that seems oddly hard may be a trial item, and worrying about it costs you time you need elsewhere.
Question types
Databricks describes the exam as multiple choice. Many questions are scenarios of the form “an engineer needs to do X under constraint Y, which approach meets the requirements?” Some options bundle several actions, so one wrong detail in a list makes the whole option wrong. Questions that involve SQL follow ANSI SQL standards, according to the exam page.
Because the format is multiple choice only, nothing is built in a live workspace. You never type code. You do need to read code and API calls well enough to spot which argument, method, or setting a question is hinting at. Our exam question types guide explains general tactics for scenario questions.
Language and delivery
The exam page lists English as the language. The exam guide says the delivery method is online proctored or test center, and states that no test aides are allowed. Confirm what is offered in your region when you book. Our exam day guide covers general preparation for a proctored sitting, such as room checks and ID.
Scoring
Databricks says passing scores are not published. It also does not state how scores are scaled on the pages we read. According to the FAQ, you see unofficial results immediately when the exam ends, and Databricks reviews the proctor recording before it confirms a pass and posts your digital badge.
Because the pass mark is unknown, it is risky to aim at an exact percentage. The sensible target is to answer practice questions correctly and consistently, with margin, in every domain. Do not lean on the Model Deployment domain being small to excuse a weak spot, but do give most of your time to Model Development and MLOps, which together make up 88% of the exam.
Retakes
Per the Databricks FAQ, you can retake an exam as many times as you like, but you must wait 14 days between attempts. Each attempt is charged at the original exam price, and Databricks does not issue free retake vouchers. Check the FAQ for the current terms before you book, since policies can change.
Validity and recertification
The certification is valid for two years from the date it is awarded. Databricks says recertification means taking the full exam that is live at the time. There is no short renewal assessment. That is worth knowing early: the exam guide changes when the platform changes, so the exam you recertify on may differ from the one you pass today.
Exam versions
The exam guide states that it covers the live version as of September 30, 2025, and that Databricks updates the document whenever the exam changes, including when the changes take effect. Databricks asks you to check back two weeks before your exam. Do exactly that, and compare the skill list with whatever study material you use. Older notes and videos may follow an earlier outline.
Quick checklist for booking
- Open the current exam guide and note the “as of” date.
- Check the delivery options and the reschedule rules for your choice.
- Plan a retake window of at least 14 days, in case you need it.
- Do your last timed practice set at least two days before the exam.
More guides for DATABRICKS-MLP
- Databricks ML Professional Study Plan
- Databricks ML Professional Sample Questions
- Is the Databricks ML Professional Exam Hard?
- Databricks ML Professional Prerequisites
- Databricks ML Professional Renewal and Retakes
- Is Databricks ML Professional Worth It?
- Databricks ML Professional Cheat Sheet
- Databricks ML Associate vs Professional
Next step
See the domains explained page for the content behind each weighting. When you want timed practice, our Databricks ML Professional practice tests include full-length sets with per-domain scores. The vendor details are on the Databricks exam page.
Frequently asked questions
How many questions are on the exam?
Databricks lists 59 scored multiple-choice questions. The exam may also include unscored items.
What is the passing score?
Databricks does not publish it, so no accurate figure exists on its pages.
How long must I wait to retake?
14 days between attempts, according to the Databricks FAQ.