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PHP (Hypertext Preprocessor) is one of the most popular programming languages used for web development. It’s an open-source, server-side scripting language that is easy to use and highly versatile.
If you’re looking to establish yourself as a PHP developer, obtaining a certification can be a great way to demonstrate your skills and stand out in the job market.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the best PHP certifications available.
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5 Best PHP Certifications in 2026
Here is the list of 5 best php certifications you can obtain in 2026:
- Zend Certified PHP Engineer
- PHP Certification by the PHP Group
- Oracle Certified Professional, PHP 7 Developer
- W3Schools PHP Certification
- Certified PHP Developer
#1 Zend Certified PHP Engineer
The Zend Certified PHP Engineer certification is one of the most recognized PHP certifications in the industry. It is offered by Zend Technologies, the creators of PHP, and is designed to test your knowledge of PHP and related technologies.
The exam covers a variety of topics, including data types, functions, and web features, and requires a passing score of 70%. This certification is valid for three years, after which recertification is required.
| Certification | Zend PHP Certified Engineer |
|---|---|
| Institution | Zend Technologies |
| Topics Covered | PHP basics, PHP data types, Control structures, Functions, Arrays, PHP configurations, Object-oriented PHP, Databases and SQL, Security, PHP extensions, Web features, Debugging and performance. |
| Duration | Varies (self-paced) |
| Flexibility | Self-paced |
| Projects | N/A |
| Pricing | Exam cost: $195 |
#2 PHP Certification by Codecademy
The PHP Certification by the PHP Group is another highly regarded certification for PHP developers. The exam covers a broad range of topics, including syntax, data types, and web development.
The certification is valid for life, and no recertification is required. However, it’s worth noting that this certification is less widely recognized than the Zend certification.
| Certification | PHP Certification by Codecademy |
|---|---|
| Institution | Codecademy |
| Topics Covered | PHP syntax and semantics, Variables, Data types, Control structures, Functions, Arrays, PHP configurations, Object-oriented PHP, Databases and SQL, Web features, Security, PHP extensions, Error handling, Performance optimization. |
| Duration | Varies (self-paced) |
| Flexibility | Self-paced |
| Projects | N/A |
| Pricing | Exam cost: $200 |
| Discounts | N/A |
#3 Oracle Certified Professional, PHP 7 Developer
The Oracle Certified Professional, PHP 7 Developer certification is designed to test your knowledge of PHP 7 and related technologies.
The exam covers topics such as data types, control structures, and web development, and requires a passing score of 63%. This certification is valid for two years, after which recertification is required.
| Certification | Oracle Certified Professional, PHP 7 Developer |
|---|---|
| Institution | Oracle |
| Topics Covered | PHP syntax and semantics, Data types, Variables, Operators, Control structures, Functions, Arrays, PHP configurations, Object-oriented PHP, Databases and SQL, Security, Web features, XML and JSON, Error handling, Streams and Network programming. |
| Duration | Varies (self-paced) |
| Flexibility | Self-paced |
| Projects | N/A |
| Pricing | Exam cost: Varies by country |
| Discounts | N/A |
#4 W3Schools PHP Certification (Cost Effective Option)
The W3Schools PHP Certification is an online certification that can be completed at your own pace. The exam covers a variety of topics, including syntax, data types, and web development, and requires a passing score of 75%.
This certification is a great option for those looking for a more flexible and affordable certification option.
| Certification | W3Schools PHP Certification |
|---|---|
| Institution | W3Schools |
| Topics Covered | PHP syntax and semantics, Variables, Data types, Operators, Control structures, Functions, Arrays, PHP configurations, Object-oriented PHP, Databases and SQL, Security, Web features, File handling, Error handling, Regular expressions. |
| Duration | Self-paced |
| Flexibility | Self-paced |
| Projects | N/A |
| Pricing | Exam cost: $95 |
| Discounts | 50% Off – Slashed Price |
#5 Certified PHP Developer
This certification is offered by the International PHP Certification Board and is recognized worldwide as a comprehensive certification for PHP developers.
| Certification | Certified PHP Developer by International PHP Certification Board |
|---|---|
| Institution | International PHP Certification Board |
| Topics Covered | PHP syntax and semantics, Variables, Data types, Operators, Control structures, Functions, Arrays, PHP configurations, Object-oriented PHP, Databases and SQL, Security, Web features, File handling, Error handling, Regular expressions. |
| Duration | Varies (self-paced) |
| Flexibility | Self-paced |
| Projects | N/A |
| Pricing | Exam cost: $150 |
| Discounts | N/A |
Career Prospects after PHP Certification
Obtaining a PHP certification can open up a range of job opportunities across various industries. Here are some potential job roles you can expect to get with a PHP certification:
- PHP Developer: As a certified PHP developer, you can work on developing web applications, websites, and other software solutions using PHP and related technologies.
- Full-stack Developer: With a PHP certification, you can work as a full-stack developer, responsible for developing both front-end and back-end components of web applications.
- Web Developer: As a certified PHP web developer, you can work on developing and maintaining websites using PHP and other web technologies.
- Software Developer: PHP is used in various software solutions, so a PHP certification can qualify you for a software developer position, where you can work on developing software applications using PHP and related technologies.
- Technical Lead: With a PHP certification, you can also qualify for technical leadership roles, where you can lead a team of developers in developing PHP-based solutions.
Overall, obtaining a PHP certification can significantly increase your chances of getting hired for these and other job roles across various industries.
Looking to Learn PHP? Book a Free Trial Lesson and match with top PHP Tutors for Concepts, Projects, and Assignment Help!
Conclusion
Obtaining a PHP certification can be a great way to demonstrate your expertise and stand out in the job market.
The Zend Certified PHP Engineer and PHP Certification by the PHP Group are both highly recognized certifications, while the Oracle Certified Professional, PHP 7 Developer, and W3Schools PHP Certification offer more flexible and affordable options.
Consider your career goals and learning style when choosing the best PHP certification for you.
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Jan 02, 2026
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