Are Google Ads Certifications Actually Worth It in 2026?

Are the official Google Ads certifications actually worth anything in 2026? In episode 117 of the Inside Google Ads podcast, host Jyll Saskin Gales tackles this question that every digital marketer has asked themselves at least once. After recently renewing her own certifications to maintain Google Partner status, Jyll reveals the frustrating reality of Skillshop’s current state. From out-of-date questions featuring retired campaign types to assessments that favor rote memorization over actual tactical skill, she pulls back the curtain on why these "official" badges often fall short of proving real-world expertise. She then introduces an unconventional initiative that real Google Ads practitioners will appreciate: her very own "Jyll's Completely Unofficial Google Ads Certification." She explains the philosophy behind this unauthorized alternative - designed to test practitioner skills in bidding, targeting, and creative, rather than just the ability to read a manual. Jyll concludes with sharing additional resources to assist with your Google Ads training and development.Key topics discussed:The pros and cons of the official Google Skillshop certifications in 2026.Who should take the Google Ads certifications, and who should skip them.Introducing Jyll’s Completely Unofficial Google Ads Certification, and why it became a LinkedIn sensation.A sneak peek at the assessment areas: Bidding, Targeting, and Creative & Formats.Free and paid Google Ads training alternatives for practitioners who want hands-on-keyboard experience over paper credentials.Test your skills with Jyll's Completely Unofficial Google Ads Certification at https://learn.jyll.ca/unofficial?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode117*Note that this is completely unauthorized, has no affiliation with Google or Skillshop, and is for entertainment purposes onlyYou can get Inside Google Ads episode transcripts delivered to your inbox each week by signing up for free at https://free.jyll.ca/?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode117Google Ads CoachingNeed some expert help with your Google Ads strategy or optimizing your campaigns? Book a call with Jyll! Learn more at https://jyll.ca/pages/google-ads-coach?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode117Inside Google Ads courseJoin 400+ marketers like you who are mastering Google Ads with Jyll's Inside Google Ads membership course. You'll get exclusive access to JyllBot, and you can meet top industry experts at an exclusive live video call every single month. Learn more at https://learn.jyll.ca/iga?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode117Read more about this topic on Jyll's Google Ads BlogGoogle Ads Certifications: Are They Worth It? https://learn.jyll.ca/blog/google-ads-certifications-are-they-worth-it?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode117Is Google Partner Status Worth It? A Google Ads Expert Weighs In https://learn.jyll.ca/blog/is-google-partner-status-worth-it-a-google-ads-expert-weighs-in?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode117Can Google Ads Certifications Get You a Job? https://learn.jyll.ca/blog/can-google-ads-certifications-get-you-a-job?utm_source=podcast&utm_medium=referral&utm_campaign=episode117Follow Jyll on social mediahttps://www.linkedin.com/in/jyllsaskingaleshttps://www.youtube.com/@the_google_prohttps://www.instagram.com/the_google_prohttps://www.threads.net/@the_google_pro