How to Renew AZ-140 Without Sitting the Exam Again

If you hold the Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate certification (AZ-140), you know that it doesn't last forever. But here's the good news: you don't need to sit the entire exam again to renew it. Microsoft has made the renewal process simple, free, and entirely online. In this article, we'll walk you through everything you need to know about AZ-140 renewal—from the renewal period and requirements to the steps you must take to stay certified.

Why Does AZ-140 Expire?

Microsoft certifications are designed to ensure that professionals stay current with evolving technologies and cloud services. The AZ-140 exam covers configuring and operating Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop. As Azure Virtual Desktop updates and new features are introduced, your knowledge needs to be refreshed. That's why Microsoft introduced the renewal assessment—a shorter, more focused test that verifies you're still up to speed. This connects to what we discuss in How to Renew DP-420 Without Sitting the Exam Again.

AZ-140 Renewal Period: When Can You Renew?

Your AZ-140 certification is valid for one year from the date you passed the exam. However, you don't have to wait until the last minute. Microsoft allows you to renew your certification up to six months before your expiration date. This gives you a generous window to complete the renewal process at your own pace.

Here's a quick timeline:

• Eligibility window: 6 months before expiration up to the day of expiration.
• Renewal assessment: Once you pass, your certification is extended for another year from your current expiration date.
• No waiting period: You can take the renewal assessment as many times as needed until you pass.

What Are the Renewal Requirements?

Unlike the original exam, which required you to schedule a proctored test, the renewal process is straightforward:

• You must have an active AZ-140 certification.
• You must complete the renewal assessment online, open-book, with no proctor.
• The assessment consists of 40-50 questions and you have 45 minutes to complete it.
• You need a score of 700 or higher to pass.

There are no CEU or CPE credit requirements for Microsoft role-based certifications like AZ-140. The only requirement is passing the renewal assessment. However, you may earn continuing education units if you use the renewal as part of a broader professional development plan, but that's optional.

How to Earn Renewal Credits (If You Want Extra Preparation)

While not mandatory, many candidates choose to prepare by earning renewal credits through free Microsoft Learn modules. These modules are specifically curated for each certification and cover the latest updates. You can find the AZ-140 renewal study guide on the Microsoft Learn website. Completing these modules not only helps you pass the assessment but also deepens your practical knowledge. Looking for more detail? See AZ-900 Study Plan: Pass in Under 30 Days Without Cramming.

For a structured approach that fits your preparation timeline and experience level, use the free AZ-140 study plan.

• Visit the AZ-140 renewal page on Microsoft Learn.
• Complete the recommended learning paths, which are updated regularly.
• Take practice tests to assess your readiness.

Step-by-Step Process to Renew Your AZ-140

1. Sign in to your Microsoft Learn profile.
2. Go to the Certification Dashboard and find your AZ-140 certification.
3. Click on Renew your certification – this will take you to the assessment.
4. Review the study guide and complete the Microsoft Learn modules if you wish.
5. When ready, launch the renewal assessment. You can use external resources, but you must complete it in one sitting.
6. After passing, your certification will be automatically extended.

What Does AZ-140 Renewal Cost?

The renewal assessment is completely free. Microsoft does not charge any fee for renewing your certification. This is a major advantage over retaking the full exam, which costs around $165. So not only do you save time, but you also save money.

What Happens If Your AZ-140 Expires?

If you miss the renewal window and your certification expires, don't panic. You have a grace period of 6 months after expiration to renew without retaking the full exam. During this grace period, you can still access the renewal assessment and pass it to reinstate your certification. However, if you let it lapse beyond that, you'll need to retake the entire AZ-140 exam from scratch.

Here's what you need to remember:

• If expired less than 6 months: You can still renew by passing the assessment.
• If expired more than 6 months: You must retake the full exam.

It's always best to renew early to avoid any lapse in your certification status, as many employers and clients require active certifications.

Tips to Pass the AZ-140 Renewal Assessment

Although the renewal is easier than the original exam, it's not a walk in the park. Here are some proven tips:

• Review the official study guide – Microsoft provides a detailed list of topics covered in the assessment.
• Focus on what's new – The assessment emphasizes recent changes to Azure Virtual Desktop, so pay special attention to updates in the last year.
• Use Microsoft Learn – The free modules are tailored to the renewal, so they are the best resource.
• Take practice tests – PractiseExam offers free AZ-140 mock tests that simulate the real exam and help you identify weak areas.
• Manage your time – With 45 minutes for 40-50 questions, you have about a minute per question, so don't get stuck.

Benefits of Renewing Your AZ-140

Renewing your certification ensures that you remain competitive in the job market and demonstrates your commitment to continuous learning. It also keeps you eligible for Microsoft's Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator Associate badge, which you can display on your LinkedIn profile and resume. Additionally, renewing is much faster than studying for the full exam—most professionals spend just a few hours preparing. If this interests you, AWS Developer Associate Difficulty: Where Developers Without AWS Experience Stumble goes into more detail.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I renew AZ-140 before the 6-month window?

No, you must wait until you are within 6 months of your expiration date. Microsoft enforces this window strictly.

Is the renewal assessment open-book?

Yes, it's open-book, meaning you can have Microsoft Learn docs open in another tab. However, you cannot collaborate with others or use external help.

How many times can I take the renewal assessment?

There is no limit. You can retake it as many times as needed until you pass, but each attempt requires a 24-hour wait between tries.

Does the renewal extend my certification by one year from the renewal date?

No, it extends from your current expiration date. So if you renew early, you essentially get more than a year of validity from the renewal date.

Final Thoughts

Renewing your AZ-140 certification is a smart move that saves you both time and money. With the free online assessment and flexible schedule, there's no reason to let your certification lapse. Start your preparation early, use the resources available, and you'll pass with confidence. Remember, the renewal is not just about maintaining a credential—it's about staying current in a fast-paced field.

Treat Configuring and Operating Microsoft Azure Virtual Desktop (AZ-140) mock test questions as your final checkpoint before registering for the exam.

Before you book your exam, take a free AZ-140 readiness check to see which topics need more attention.