When you first encounter SAFe (Scaled Agile Framework), the array of SAFe certifications can feel overwhelming. Each certification offers unique benefits, but to make an informed decision, we need to break things down using first principles and a healthy dose of skepticism. After all, not every certification is right for every person.

Why Are There So Many SAFe Certifications?

Let’s start by asking why so many certifications exist in the first place. SAFe, as a framework, caters to different roles within an organization, from team-level roles to executives steering the company’s strategy. The variety of SAFe certifications reflects this wide range of responsibilities, allowing professionals to specialize in the areas most relevant to their role in scaling Agile.

Each certification is designed to equip you with a specific set of tools and practices, helping you drive Agile transformation in your organization. Now, let’s break down the key certifications and who they’re meant for.

1. Leading SAFe® (SAFe Agilist)

This is the most popular SAFe certification, often seen as the entry point for many professionals. It is designed for those who want a broad understanding of the SAFe framework and how to apply it across multiple teams and departments. It covers essential concepts like Lean-Agile principles, Agile Release Trains (ARTs), and the roles necessary for scaling Agile.

• Who’s it for?

Leaders, managers, and executives who want to guide Agile transformation within their organization.

2. SAFe® Scrum Master (SSM)

While similar to the Scrum Master role in traditional Agile, SAFe Scrum Masters need to be proficient in guiding teams through a larger, more complex environment. This certification covers how to facilitate cross-team collaboration and ensure Agile principles are upheld at scale.

• Who’s it for?

Scrum Masters and Agile coaches who will be working in SAFe organizations, helping teams function within the larger system.

3. SAFe® Product Owner/Product Manager (POPM)

The SAFe POPM certification is ideal for professionals involved in defining, prioritizing, and delivering value through Agile Release Trains. This role bridges the gap between customer needs and the teams that deliver solutions, and the certification provides the tools to excel in that capacity.

• Who’s it for?

Product Owners, Product Managers, and business analysts who want to understand how to manage backlogs, roadmaps, and customer needs within a scaled Agile system.

4. SAFe® Advanced Scrum Master (SASM)

For Scrum Masters who already have experience, the SASM certification goes deeper into the skills needed to scale Agile, navigate conflicts, and enable continuous improvement in large organizations.

• Who’s it for?

Experienced Scrum Masters looking to deepen their expertise in complex and scaled Agile environments.

5. SAFe® DevOps Practitioner (SDP)

This certification focuses on the technical practices that enable continuous delivery in SAFe. It addresses both the cultural and technical aspects of DevOps, including how to build automated pipelines, create a continuous delivery environment, and align development with operational teams.

• Who’s it for?

IT professionals, developers, and operations experts who want to optimize the flow of work from development to operations in a SAFe organization.

6. SAFe® Architect

The SAFe Architect certification provides the skills to design and implement Agile architectures across programs and solutions. Architects in SAFe guide teams in technical decision-making and ensure that architectural principles support the flow of value.

• Who’s it for?

System Architects, Solution Architects, and enterprise architects responsible for the technical direction of Agile initiatives.

7. SAFe® Program Consultant (SPC)

SPCs are the change agents within SAFe organizations. This certification is for individuals who want to train others in SAFe, launch Agile Release Trains, and lead SAFe transformations at the enterprise level. Becoming an SPC allows you to teach most other SAFe courses.

• Who’s it for?

Experienced Agile practitioners who want to lead large-scale transformations and coach others on SAFe implementation.

8. SAFe® Release Train Engineer (RTE)

The RTE role is pivotal in coordinating large Agile Release Trains (ARTs). This certification provides the skills needed to act as the chief facilitator, ensuring that ARTs run smoothly, resolving bottlenecks, and driving continuous improvement.

• Who’s it for?

Program managers, delivery managers, and Scrum Masters who want to take on the responsibility of leading entire Agile Release Trains.

9. SAFe® Lean Portfolio Management (LPM)

This certification focuses on aligning portfolios with the business strategy in a SAFe environment. It helps portfolio managers, PMOs, and executives allocate budgets and resources to ensure that the organization’s Agile efforts support its strategic goals.

• Who’s it for?

Executives, portfolio managers, and PMO leaders who manage large initiatives and need to ensure alignment between strategic objectives and Agile execution.

10. SAFe® Agile Software Engineering (ASE)

The ASE certification delves into the technical aspects of SAFe, teaching software engineers the practices necessary for creating scalable, high-quality solutions. This includes test-driven development, Agile architecture, and continuous integration.

• Who’s it for?

Software engineers and technical leads who want to apply Agile engineering practices in a SAFe organization.

Which Certification Should You Choose?

Now that we’ve broken down the different options, let’s return to first principles. The certification you choose should align with your career goals and your role within your organization. If you’re leading teams or are part of an Agile transformation, SAFe certifications like Leading SAFe® or SPC may be your best fit. If you’re a Scrum Master or Product Owner, then the SSM or POPM certifications are more relevant.

However, the certificate alone won’t make you successful. My training approach emphasizes critical thinking and skepticism. Rather than simply following a framework, you’ll learn how to tailor SAFe principles to your unique situation and organization.

Final Thoughts: Why Get Certified with Me?

The certification landscape can feel like just another checkbox. But my approach focuses on equipping you with a mindset for continuous learning, problem-solving, and using evidence-based practices. By the time you leave my workshop, you’ll not only understand SAFe, but you’ll also know how to question it and improve upon it.

So, whether you’re just starting with Agile or you’re deep into the complexities of scaling, there’s a SAFe certification that fits. And if you want to go beyond just learning the theory—if you want to challenge the framework, understand its core, and apply it practically—then joining one of my upcoming trainings will set you on the right path.