Google is forever expanding, and as a result of this – they are also always looking at ways that their users can make money online.
Indeed, they have even set up a platform online where you can educate yourself on the fundamentals of online advertising.
So, if you’re trying to find a free way you can make some money online – a Google Ads certification recognizes and could be something that may benefit you, but how exactly does it all work?
Luckily, we’ve written this step-by-step guide that explains how you can make money with a Google Ads certification.
If you think this might be something you could benefit from – then read on and get much more information on how to make money with a Google Ads Certification!
What Is A Google Ads Certification?
Before we go any further, it’s a good idea that we explain exactly what a Google Ads certification is.
Essentially, this certification is Google’s professional accreditation which confirms a person can demonstrate proficiency in basic and advanced Google Ads in Google Analytics
There are six different types of Google Ads certifications. These are:
- Google Ads search
- Google Ads display
- Google Ads video certification program
- Google Ads apps
- Google Ads measurement certification
- Shopping ads
This Google Ads Search certification shows others that a person has been recognized officially by Google as an expert in the field of online advertising. However, to be Google Ads certified professional, you have to have a Skillshop account.
Of course, gaining a Google Ads certification can be extremely beneficial for a person to show existing and potential clients of their proficiency in this field, recognized by a major player.
How Google Ads Certification Works
You will first need to get a Skillshop account, and once you have done this, you will have full access to the certifications that are available.
Some assessments require specific things like the Google Ads product portion requires this area to be passed.
In order to pass, you will need to complete the test and receive an 80% score or above. The tests are around 75 minutes in length and if you do not manage to pass your Google Ads Certification assessment, you can retry it 24 hours later.
A timer begins when you start your test and you cannot pause it. Once it has started, you must complete the test and receive the appropriate score.
How Could You Use Your Certification?

You’re completing this certification for your own knowledge and skills, but also to show others that you are proficient in these skills.
Essentially, you are proving that you have the expertise that someone may be looking for.
Many people begin using Google AdSense because they wish to publish some content on their website and allow others to see it without paying for it.
It’s important to point out that there are two main types of Google Partners program with Google AdSense:
Content-Based Ads
Content-based ads work like normal Google AdSense advertisements but rather than being shown ads at differing times, the visitor to the site is directed straight to the advertiser’s page.
This is one of the best ways to make some money this way if you have a lot of frequent traffic to your website. You may instead decide to add banners of interest to people in a specific niche.
Contextual Ads
Creating Google App campaigns through sponsored posts or sponsored Tweets. The user does not need to click anything else to access the product – they simply need to click on the post for you to make money.
This is a great method to choose if you’re trying to push specific and optimizing Google Search campaigns or if you’re new to the game.
However, you will likely notice that this method will drive your website’s traffic through the roof initially, but it’s not sustainable as people will understand the intention.
What Ways Can You Make Money?
We can now look at a step-by-step guide for the ways you could make money with a Google Ads certification.
1. Preparation
Before you start, you will need to prepare yourself for the assessment. Familiarize yourself with what the assessment(s) will entail and what you might need to know.
You can actually find a lot of assistance for this on YouTube and other online resources.
Be sure to download Skillshop and allow yourself enough time to complete the assessment. The more time you prepare, the better placed you should be later.
2. Complete The Certification
Choose the type of certification(s) you wish to undertake and then complete it. If you fail, remember you can redo the test 24 hours later.
However, if you have prepared well for the assessment – you should pass the first time.
Remember, you’re working in a timeframe and you cannot pause the test – so be sure you have allowed yourself enough time to finish it!
3. Print The Certificate, Update Your Resume
Great, you’ve passed! Now you need to print the certificate and update your resume to your brand new certification. Google allows you to tell others of your achievement and your certificate is evidence of that.
4. Consider Your Options
Now, you may wish to make money yourself via your own website. As we mentioned earlier, some people do this as a way to make passive income.
If this is the case, you should understand which method you are going to use and how best to do so.
Another option however is to work as a freelancer and assist content creators to make their own passive income.
You will need to work out your fees before you begin. Luckily, with this certification – you should be able to charge a little bit more!
A third option is to look for a staff job hiring a digital marketing candidate. Your certification can help you to stand out from the crowd and give you a better chance of employment.
Staff jobs in this field can pay very well, so this could be your best option.
Don’t forget, if you have the time and the energy – there’s nothing stopping you from doing a number of these options at the same time.
You could make your primary source of income from your staff job, along with two forms of passive income!
Is Google Ads Certification Hard To Pass?
You need to get 80% or higher – and while the assessments aren’t exactly quantum physics, you have to have a good understanding of the subject matter. Luckily, there are many resources out there that can help you.
In fact, Google has some tutors to hand which can help you understand areas you may not be so familiar with and help you to pass the assessments.
As we mentioned earlier, you can also find a lot of resources online and on YouTube in order to help you prepare for the tests before you start anyway.
As long as you have prepared well, you should be absolutely fine!
The Bottom Line
Making money with a Google Ads certification is possible, but it involves preparation, time, and energy. If you can give it your all and follow these steps, you could start making money in no time!