Platform Development Lifecycle and Deployment Architect Certification: Complete Guide 2025
Exam Code: SALESFORCE-36
The Platform Development Lifecycle and Deployment Architect certification validates expertise in designing and implementing governance frameworks, development lifecycles, and deployment strategies for large-scale Salesforce implementations.
Exam Details
Platform Development Lifecycle and Deployment Architect Resources
Everything you need to prepare for and pass your exam
Practice Exam
Full-length Platform Development Lifecycle and Deployment Architect practice test
Exam Simulator
Realistic exam simulation experience
Mock Exam
Full-length timed mock exam
Study Guide
Comprehensive study materials
Exam Objectives
Official exam domains and topics
Free Practice Test
Free sample questions to try
Exam Domains & Topics
Master these 7 domains to pass your exam
Application Lifecycle Management
of exam
Planning
of exam
System Design
of exam
Building
of exam
Deploying
of exam
Testing
of exam
Releasing
of exam
Who Should Take This Exam?
This certification is ideal for the following professionals
- Experienced Salesforce architects with 3-5 years of hands-on experience
- Technical leads managing complex development and deployment processes
- Senior developers transitioning to architect roles
- DevOps professionals specializing in Salesforce platforms
- Technical architects pursuing the Salesforce Certified Technical Architect credential
Recommended Study Timeline
Plan your preparation effectively
12-16 weeks
Recommended study duration
Weeks 1-2: Foundation
Review exam objectives & core concepts
Weeks 3-6: Deep Dive
Study each domain with hands-on practice
Weeks 7-8: Practice & Review
Take practice exams & focus on weak areas
Practice by Difficulty
Choose your challenge level
Practice Question Banks
Extensive question collections for thorough preparation
2025 Exam Resources
Latest materials updated for the current exam version
Career Opportunities
Related Job Titles
$155,000
Average Annual Salary
Prerequisites
Salesforce Certified Platform Developer I (required) Salesforce Certified Platform App Builder (strongly recommended) 3-5 years of hands-on Salesforce development experience Deep understanding of development lifecycle management Experience with source control, CI/CD, and deployment automation Knowledge of governance frameworks and architectural best practices
Platform Development Lifecycle and Deployment Architect FAQs
Common questions about the SALESFORCE-36 certification exam
This is an expert-level Salesforce certification that validates your ability to design and oversee the complete application development lifecycle for enterprise Salesforce implementations. It covers governance, planning, design, development, testing, deployment, and release management at scale. This certification is often a prerequisite or stepping stone toward the Salesforce Certified Technical Architect (CTA) credential.
This is considered one of the more challenging Salesforce certifications, requiring extensive hands-on experience with enterprise-scale implementations. The exam tests deep knowledge of development lifecycle management, CI/CD practices, governance frameworks, and architectural decision-making. Most candidates spend 12-16 weeks preparing and have 3-5 years of relevant Salesforce experience before attempting the exam.
Professionals holding the Platform Development Lifecycle and Deployment Architect certification typically earn between $135,000 and $175,000 annually in the United States, with an average around $155,000. Salaries vary based on location, years of experience, company size, and additional certifications held. This certification significantly enhances earning potential and career advancement opportunities in Salesforce architecture roles.
You must hold the Salesforce Certified Platform Developer I certification as a mandatory prerequisite. Additionally, Salesforce strongly recommends having the Platform App Builder certification and 3-5 years of hands-on experience with Salesforce development, deployment tools, version control systems, and managing complex implementation projects across multiple teams and environments.
The Platform Development Lifecycle and Deployment Architect certification is one of the review board certifications that demonstrates deep technical expertise required for the Salesforce Certified Technical Architect (CTA) program. It provides essential knowledge about governance, lifecycle management, and deployment strategies that are critical components of the CTA review board examination.
About the Platform Development Lifecycle and Deployment Architect Certification
The Platform Development Lifecycle and Deployment Architect (SALESFORCE-36) is a expert-level certification offered by Salesforce. This certification validates your expertise in enterprise software and is recognized globally by employers seeking qualified professionals.
Why Get Platform Development Lifecycle and Deployment Architect Certified?
- Career Advancement: Certified professionals earn an average of $155,000 per year
- Industry Recognition: Salesforce certifications are respected worldwide
- Skill Validation: Demonstrate your expertise to employers and clients
How to Prepare for SALESFORCE-36
Hydranode offers comprehensive preparation materials including practice exams, study guides, and free practice tests to help you pass on your first attempt.