Hi Ahmad Safi:
Thanks for reaching out to Microsoft Q&A.
Yes it has been retired but currently there is no replacement for 70-461. Alternatively you can try to prepare any one of these below.
Microsoft Certified: Database Administrator Associate
Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate
Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Engineer Associate
Microsoft Certified: Azure AI Engineer Associate
Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Scientist Associate
See the link below...
https://trainingsupport.microsoft.com/en-us/mcp/forum/all/replacement-for-exam-70-461-querying-microsoft-sql/d8a4e7c2-7855-4036-a37f-ed17862689c0
Please 'Upvote'(Thumbs-up) and 'Accept' as answer if the reply was helpful. This will be benefitting other community members who face the same issue.
Answer from Vinodh247-1375 on learn.microsoft.comMicrosoft Learn
learn.microsoft.com › en-us › credentials › certifications › azure-database-administrator-associate
Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate - Certifications | Microsoft Learn
April 24, 2026 - You use a variety of methods and tools to perform and automate day-to-day operations, including applying knowledge of using Transact-SQL (T-SQL) and other tools for administrative management purposes. You’re responsible for the following concerning database solutions: ... You evaluate and implement migration strategies for moving databases between Azure and on-premises. Plus, you work with Azure data engineers, Azure solution architects, Azure developers, data scientists, and other professionals to manage operational aspects of data platform solutions. As a candidate for this certification, you should have knowledge of and experience with:
Reddit
reddit.com › r/azurecertification › azure database administrator associate cert with no experience
r/AzureCertification on Reddit: Azure Database Administrator Associate cert with no experience
December 19, 2024 -
Title. Have a potential job opening for a database administrator and wanted to start diving into it. Don't have a ton of experience with databases but was wondering if this was something that would be good.
Also, are there any certs that I should do before this?
Thanks!
Top answer 1 of 2
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Dp-900, dp-300 and az-305 your final frontier
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AZ-900/DP-900 could potentially help build foundational knowledge if you have no prior experience in Azure, otherwise the associate would be the next step. Good luck! Ideally you have a bit of experience as a database administrator as the requirements can be quite vast, maintaining them and ensuring they run quickly and efficiently is a good portion of the role, so an understanding of database platforms/software/services in general would be great.
Passed DP-300 Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate Exam Mar 13, 2026
r/AzureCertification 4mo ago
HELP! I want to become a database administrator but have no clue where to begin! May 5, 2021
r/Database 5y ago
Microsoft SQL Server Certification
Hello, I was looking to find training material for Microsoft Exam 70-461 but came across a couple of links saying this exam has been retired. I tried to find the same link on Microsoft's website but was not able to. Therefore, I am posting a question… More on learn.microsoft.com
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October 9, 2023How to be Microsoft Certified:Azure Database administrator
Hi everyone, Happy to be part of the community. I wanted to become a database administrator and even took some exams, but for various reasons, I ended up in banking. My passion has always been to become a database administrator. It's been 10 years now,… More on learn.microsoft.com
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May 6, 2024Replacement for MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Administration
Hello Support, please can you advice what the replacement/suitable certification for MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Administration is? Thanks More on learn.microsoft.com
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February 1, 2021What is a Microsoft Certified Database Administrator?
A Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA) is an IT professional who has earned certification from Microsoft, demonstrating expertise in installing, configuring, and managing Microsoft database solutions, primarily Microsoft SQL Server. MCDBAs are skilled in maintaining database security, ensuring data integrity, and optimizing database performance. Although the original MCDBA certification was retired in 2012, similar roles now pursue certifications like the Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate. These professionals are essential for organizations that rely on
ziprecruiter.com
ziprecruiter.com › all jobs › microsoft certified database administrator jobs
$38-$74/hr Microsoft Certified Database Administrator Jobs
What is the difference between Microsoft Certified Database Administrator vs Microsoft Certified Data Analyst?
| Aspect | Microsoft Certified Database Administrator | Microsoft Certified Data Analyst |
|---|---|---|
| Certifications | Microsoft Certified: Database Administrator Associate | Microsoft Certified: Data Analyst Associate |
| Work Environment | Database management, server maintenance, performance tuning | Data analysis, reporting, visualization |
| Industry Usage | IT, database management, enterprise solutions | Business intelligence, analytics, data-driven decision making |
The Microsoft Certified Database Administrator focuses on managing and maintaining databases, ensuring their performance and security. In contrast, the Microsoft Certified Data Analyst specializes in analyzing data, creating reports, and providing insights. While both roles require familiarity with data tools and SQL, their core responsibilities and industry applications differ significantly.
ziprecruiter.com
ziprecruiter.com › all jobs › microsoft certified database administrator jobs
$38-$74/hr Microsoft Certified Database Administrator Jobs
How much do microsoft certified database administrator jobs pay per hour?
As of Apr 28, 2026, the average hourly pay for microsoft certified database administrator in the United States is $49.16, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $38.46 and $59.13 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.
ziprecruiter.com
ziprecruiter.com › all jobs › microsoft certified database administrator jobs
$38-$74/hr Microsoft Certified Database Administrator Jobs
Microsoft Azure Database Administrator Full Course 2026 ...
06:44:58
Microsoft Certified Azure Database Administrator Associate (DP-300) ...
DP-300 Microsoft Azure Database Administrator Associate : Ultimate ...
59:50
Prep for Exam DP- 300 & Azure Database Administrator Associate ...
Microsoft Learn
learn.microsoft.com › en-us › credentials › certifications › resources › study-guides › dp-300
Study guide for Exam DP-300: Administering Microsoft Azure SQL Solutions | Microsoft Learn
You’re a database administrator who manages cloud and on-premises databases built with Azure SQL services and SQL Server.
Learn.org
learn.org › home › courses and certificates › how do i earn a microsoft mcdba certification?
How Do I Earn a Microsoft MCDBA Certification?
January 20, 2023 - MCDBA stands for Microsoft Certified Database Administrator. This certification was designed for database administrators with experience implementing, designing and administrating databases with Microsoft SQL Server 2000.
ZipRecruiter
ziprecruiter.com › all jobs › microsoft certified database administrator jobs
$38-$74/hr Microsoft Certified Database Administrator Jobs
A Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA) is an IT professional who has earned certification from Microsoft, demonstrating expertise in installing, configuring, and managing Microsoft database solutions, primarily Microsoft SQL Server.
Microsoft Learn
learn.microsoft.com › en-us › credentials › certifications › azure-data-fundamentals
Microsoft Certified: Azure Data Fundamentals - Certifications | Microsoft Learn
As a candidate for this certification, you should have familiarity with Exam DP-900’s self-paced or instructor-led learning material.
Microsoft Learn
learn.microsoft.com › en-us › answers › questions › 4412349 › how-to-be-microsoft-certified-azure-database-admin
How to be Microsoft Certified:Azure Database administrator - Microsoft Q&A
July 13, 2024 - There are several courses on Database Administrator. You do not need to take all courses before being certified. But taken basic course is very important.
ONLC
onlc.com › graphics › publications › datasheet_mcdba.pdf pdf
MCDBA Microsoft Certified Database Administrator On SQL Server 2000
Professional certification designates you as a top-tier database administrator. The · MCDBA certification is appropriate for individuals who perform the following job tasks: ... Move ahead of the competition with quality, flexible learning solutions. Comprehensive preparation tools such as Microsoft Official Courses, Microsoft
Pluralsight
pluralsight.com › paths › microsoft-certified-azure-database-administrator-associate
Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate
This course is designed for database professionals who manage on-premises and cloud-based SQL Server and Azure SQL databases. Learners will gain the expertise needed to support modern data environments and enhance their career opportunities ...
Microsoft Community Hub
techcommunity.microsoft.com › microsoft community hub › communities › products › sql server › sql server
Current SQL Server Certifications | Microsoft Community Hub
May 6, 2024 - Hello, I had a couple Microsoft certifications many years ago and am interested in getting re-certified in SQL Server. I looked on...
New Horizons
newhorizons.com › certifications › microsoft-azure-database-administrator-associate
Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate
Whether you're growing your own skills or upskilling an entire organization, we have a path for you · The Azure database administrator implements and manages the operational aspects of cloud-native and hybrid data platform solutions built with Microsoft SQL Server and Microsoft Azure Data Services.
Firebrand Training
firebrand.training › azure › microsoft › courses › certifications › country › country selection
Microsoft Certified Azure Database Administrator Associate (DP-300) | Accelerated course
April 25, 2025 - If you're a database administrator or a data management specialist that manages on-premises and cloud relational databases built on top of Microsoft SQL Server and Microsoft Azure data services, this course is ideal for you. Module 1: The Role of the Azure Database Administrator · Lab: Using the Azure Portal and SQL Server Management Studio · Module 2: Plan and Implement Data Platform Resources ... As part of your accelerated course, you’ll sit the following exam at the Firebrand Training centre, covered by your Certification Guarantee:
Microsoft Learn
learn.microsoft.com › en-us › answers › questions › 253455 › replacement-for-mcsa-sql-2016-database-administrat
Replacement for MCSA: SQL 2016 Database Administration - Microsoft Q&A
February 1, 2021 - Also I would highly recommend to go through below thread which covers your query in great details.(Check the answer by Raphael_A1) https://trainingsupport.microsoft.com/en-us/mcp/forum/mcp_cert-mcp_retire/what-replaces-mcsa-sql-2016-database/375e90c2-f834-4ba6-a9e4-07f4a4e07b50#:~:text=I see that MCSA: SQL,being retired Jan 31, 2021. Also below link would be helpful if you want to see the replacement related to other retiring certifications: https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/t5/microsoft-learn-blog/mcsa-mcsd-mcse-certifications-retire-with-continued-investment/ba-p/1489670
Computer-schools
computer-schools.us › Microsoft-Certified-Database-Administrator-Certification-MCDBA.htm
Microsoft Certified Database Administrator Certification (MCDBA) | Computer Schools
Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA) certification provides the necessary training for anyone who wants to work with Microsoft SQL Server databases to create, secure and protect physical databases, logical data models and data services. Click on the links below to find out how ...
Medium
medium.com › @evanderburg › microsoft-certified-database-administrator-mcdba-bbd291574a71
Microsoft Certified Database Administrator MCDBA | by Eric Vanderburg | Medium
August 28, 2017 - Microsoft Certified Database Administrator MCDBA I am happy to announce that I passed another certification test — actually two of them. I took the MCDBA (Microsoft Certified Database …
Microsoft Community Hub
techcommunity.microsoft.com › microsoft community hub › communities › topics › the skills hub on tech community › the skills hub blog
Level up with Microsoft Certified: Azure Database Administrator Associate | Microsoft Community Hub
September 7, 2021 - The Azure Database Administrator Associate certification validates that you have what it takes to be a data management specialist with subject matter expertise implementing and managing cloud and on-premises relational databases built on top of SQL Server and Azure data services.
Educaedu
educaedu.org › microsoft certified database administrator (mcdba) - conshohocken - pennsylvania
Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA) - Conshohocken - Pennsylvania - New Horizons Computer Learning Centers - I2265 | Educaedu
Microsoft Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA) Description The Microsoft® Certified Database Administrator (MCDBA) credential is the premier certification for professionals who implement and administer Microsoft SQL Server™ databases.
Microsoft Learn
learn.microsoft.com › en-us › credentials
Professional and Technical Credentials and Certifications | Microsoft Learn
Globally recognized and validated by Microsoft. To get started, choose a credential, prepare with training, earn by passing an exam (Certifications) or a lab-based assessment (Applied Skills), then celebrate by sharing your credential on social ...
Reddit
reddit.com › r/database › oracle mysql database administration certification? does it worth
r/Database on Reddit: Oracle MySQL Database Administration certification? Does it worth
September 7, 2025 -
I am 6 year experienced Automation Tester. I want to switch to database side will this help?
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I cannot vouch for the Oracle certification, but I got my MCDBA (Microsoft Certified Database Administrator l) certification over 20 years ago, it did not help land one job but gave me a broader understanding of MSSQL as I learnt topics that were not on my radar.
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Certifications move yourvresume up in the pile, but you still have to know what you are doing