In the ever-changing world of Salesforce, staying still is not an option. Admins are constantly adapting, learning, and evolving their skills to keep pace with the platform and the needs of their business. One of the most common ways we demonstrate this growth is through certifications. But what does the certification landscape really look like in 2025? The latest SF Ben Salesforce Administrator Survey provides some fascinating insight.
Whether you are just starting out or are years into your admin journey, certifications remain a key part of professional development. But they are not the whole story. This year’s survey uncovers not just how many certifications admins hold, but which ones are considered the most helpful and how certification trends differ by experience level.
Most Admins Hold 1 to 3 Certifications
Half of all respondents reported holding between one and three certifications. This makes sense for most admins, as these foundational certs are often required for job roles, used to demonstrate platform knowledge, and are helpful for career advancement.
While the number of certifications tends to increase with seniority, the sweet spot for many admins remains within that 1-3 range.
The top three most helpful certifications, according to respondents, are:
- Salesforce Administrator
- Advanced Administrator
- Platform App Builder
Admins report these as being valuable across all levels of experience. These certifications span the essential skill sets needed to succeed in an admin role today.
Certification by Experience Level
Our survey findings show that the number of certifications typically increases as admins progress in their careers. Reassuringly, the data suggests that it is not as common as some might assume for individuals to hold an excessive number of certifications. It also challenges the stereotype that entry-level professionals are collecting multiple certs without real-world experience. Most admins appear to be earning certifications in line with their practical knowledge and career stage.
It is no surprise that the Administrator certification is the most helpful at the entry level. It is where most of us start, and it lays the groundwork for understanding users, security, and basic customization.
At the intermediate and advanced levels, we see the Platform App Builder and Advanced Administrator certifications rising in importance. These certs show a deeper understanding of automation, app development, and system architecture.
The more advanced your role, the more you are expected to operate strategically. That means understanding how to scale your org, design efficient processes, and make informed technical decisions. Certifications can help bridge that gap and provide structure to what can otherwise feel like a vast and complicated learning journey.
The Rise of AI Certification
One of the biggest shifts we have seen this year is the growing interest in Salesforce AI certifications. With tools like Einstein and Agentforce becoming more integrated into daily admin work, admins are taking notice. In fact, 75.4% of respondents said they have either earned a Salesforce AI certification or plan to do so soon.
This speaks volumes. Admins are not just watching AI unfold; they are actively preparing for it. And for good reason. Of those using AI in their roles, 62.3% said it makes them more productive, with the top benefits being better efficiency, help with writing formulas, and reducing manual tasks. AI is no longer a future trend. It is already here, and certification is one of the best ways to build confidence and credibility as it becomes more embedded in the platform.
Certs vs. Experience: The Real Story
While certifications are clearly valued, the survey also reveals that they are not the only factor in a successful admin career. When asked what increases their value as a Salesforce professional, respondents rated certifications at 6.2 out of 10. Hands-on experience, by contrast, scored an impressive 9.3 out of 10.
This tells us that while certifications are a strong foundation, practical application is where admins build real confidence and capability. Employers know this, too. They want people who can troubleshoot live org issues, build effective automations, and communicate with stakeholders – all of which are skills that come from doing the work.
Summary
Certifications are a valuable tool in your admin toolkit, and in 2025, they continue to play an important role in shaping careers. Whether you are pursuing your first Admin cert or eyeing your fifth, remember that learning is most powerful when paired with experience.
As the platform grows more complex and as AI and automation reshape our daily work, certifications can help admins stay relevant and confident. But do not stop there. Take on projects. Get involved in user groups. Share what you are learning. Being certified is great, but being capable, adaptable, and connected is even better.
Let me know what certification you found the most valuable, or which one is next on your list!
