Where to Get Google Ads Certification for Free: 3 Legit Options

Earning your Google Ads certification is a smart way to start or advance your digital marketing career. It boosts your credibility with potential employers by showcasing expertise in one of the most essential digital marketing tools.

Google offers all 9 Google Ads certifications for free through Skillshop, but the study materials are basic. To pass the exams, you need a solid grasp of complex, non-intuitive concepts.

While self-study is possible, guided training can make a big difference. A course that helps you learn and practice the necessary skills sets you up for success on the exam.

In this article, we’ll explore three training options, including our free Google and Meta Ads Certification course through Climb Hire. Our program also offers hands-on experience and job-search support.

We offer a free Google and Meta Ads Certification course, which leads directly toward these certifications. Plus, our program includes other invaluable elements, like hands-on experience and help finding a job.

Before we get into the training options, keep in mind that Google Ads offers a variety of certifications, so the first step is determining which aligns with your goals and interests.

Which Google Ads certification is right for you?

Google Ads offers 9 certifications, each focusing on a specific area of digital advertising. Choose the one that aligns with your interests and career goals to specialize in your desired area.

Here’s an overview of what’s available:

• Google Ads Search certification: This is the go-to certification for anyone looking to master Google Ads campaigns (also known as pay-per-click or PPC campaigns). You’ll learn the fundamentals of creating ads that perform well, target the right audience, and implement effective bidding strategies to optimize for results.
• Google Ads Display certification: This certification focuses on the art of display advertising (namely, the visually engaging ads—like banners or videos—shown on websites and apps). You’ll learn how to design compelling ads that appear across the Google Display Network, and master strategies for increasing engagement and conversions.
• Google Ads Apps certification: You’ll learn how to promote mobile apps using Google Ads. It covers strategies for driving app downloads, engaging users, and optimizing campaigns to increase in-app activity and user retention.
• Google Ads Video certification: If you’re interested in video marketing, this certification is for you. It covers how to create and manage video ads on platforms like YouTube, helping you engage your audience with dynamic video content.
• Google Ads Creative certification: If you’re interested in ad design, this certification guides you through using Google’s creative tools to develop ads that capture attention and inspire action.
• Google Ads Measurement certification: This certification teaches you how to analyze the success of your campaigns. You’ll gain expertise in using tools like Google Analytics to measure performance, track key metrics, and ensure that your campaigns are achieving the best possible outcomes.
• AI-Powered Performance Ads certification: You’ll learn to leverage AI for creating high-performing ad campaigns.
• AI-Powered Shopping Ads certification: You’ll focus on using AI to boost the effectiveness of e-commerce shopping ads, helping you with the optimization of product listings and increasing online sales.
• Grow Offline Sales certification: With this certification, you’ll learn how to connect online ads to in-store purchases. It zooms in on strategies that drive offline sales using online ad campaigns, a great choice if you’re working with brick-and-mortar businesses.

Choosing the right certification depends on where you are in your digital marketing career. Digital marketing professionals often seek out different certifications to advance their skills in a certain area to match specific career goals.

If you’re new to digital marketing, the Google Ads Search certification is a great entry point. It provides a solid foundation in online advertising, teaching you how to create ads, choose the right keywords, and target the right audience—skills essential for paid search marketing and applicable across other digital marketing areas.

Read more: Is Google Ads Certification worth it? An honest review

3 training options for Google Ads certification

Google Ads covers a wide range of complex concepts and tools, which can make earning certification feel overwhelming—especially for beginners. Fortunately, there are excellent training options available to help you pass the certification exams, with varying structures to suit different learning styles.

Here are three training programs to prepare for Google Ads certification:

1. Climb Hire

Climb Hire is a nonprofit organization dedicated to helping low-income working adults launch successful, long-term careers in tech.

Our Google & Meta Ads Certification program is a comprehensive four-month course that leads directly to both of these professional certifications. The program is completely free for all students, which is just the beginning of what makes Climb Hire stand out among Google Ads certification training options.

What else sets Climb Hire apart? It’s designed to make you a well-rounded digital marketer, not just earn a certification. Here’s how:

• Instructor-led, remote classes: Classes are live, online sessions with experienced instructors who will teach you the ins and outs of Google Ads Search and Facebook Ads campaigns. You’ll learn how to create successful keyword strategies, manage search campaigns, and measure campaign performance.
• Industry-recognized certifications: Upon completing the program, you’ll earn two highly respected certifications: Google Ads Search Certification and Meta Certified Digital Marketing Associate. These credentials help your resume stand out to potential employers.
• Practical experience: You’ll apply what you’ve learned in a capstone project, where you’ll create and manage PPC campaigns for a real-world client. This hands-on experience not only helps you build a strong portfolio but also equips you with the knowledge and expertise needed to become a well-rounded digital marketer.
• Soft skills: Aside from learning the technical skills, class time is devoted to teaching you key soft skills like professional communication, resume writing, crafting compelling cover letters, and excelling in interviews, giving you the confidence and tools needed to stand out to employers.
• Job search assistance: A Career Development Advisor who will work with you one-on-one as you look for a job. They’ll provide personalized guidance on everything from refining your resume to preparing for interviews.
• Career networking: All Climb Hire alumni gain access to our extensive professional network. This connection to employers in the industry can open doors to job opportunities.

Thanks to the comprehensiveness of our program, over 80% of Climb Hire alumni land jobs within 12 months of graduating, many earning starting salaries of $50k or more.

Climb Hire is more than just a free Google Ads certification training program. It’s a direct pathway into a career as a digital marketer. Climb Hire alumni have landed roles at top companies like Google, Galileo, Salesforce, and IBM, showcasing the real-world impact of our programs.

For example, Kia Scales went from working 10 years in the restaurant industry to landing a marketing role after completing our Paid Search Marketing program:

 

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Climb Hire also offers other certifications

In addition to Google Ads certification, Climb Hire’s Paid Search Marketing program also leads to the Meta Certified Digital Marketing Associate. This certification complements your Google Ads skills by demonstrating your ability to manage social media ads on platforms like Facebook and Instagram, making you a more versatile digital marketer.

We also offer another learning track in IT Support, a six-month program that leads to CompTIA A+ certification. This is an industry-recognized credential that prepares you for IT support roles like computer systems support specialist or network support technician.

Ready to start your Google Ads certification training with Climb Hire? The application process is quick and easy. Apply now.

Climb Hire is open to students 24 to 40 years old earning less than $30k per year.

2. Google Skillshop

Google Skillshop is the official platform where you can earn Google Ads certifications directly from Google. Each certification comes with its own set of study materials. However, this route requires you to learn all the material on your own, with no instructors or guidance to help you if you get stuck.

Pros of learning through Google Skillshop:

• Free access to all certifications: Skillshop provides free training materials for all 9 Google Ads certifications, making it a cost-effective option.
• Flexible learning format: You can study and take the exams at your own pace, easily fitting it around your schedule.
• Direct access to Google’s resources: The training content is created by Google, so you’ll be learning directly from the source.

Cons of learning through Google Skillshop:

• Steep learning curve for beginners: If you’re new to Google Ads, understanding the material on your own can feel overwhelming without additional context, examples, or support from expert instructors.
• No hands-on experience: While you’ll earn the certification, this route doesn’t offer experience with real-world projects to practice your skills.
• No job search assistance: Skillshop focuses solely on certification. It doesn’t provide support for building a resume, preparing for interviews, or helping you use your certification to land a job.

If you still feel like Skillshop is your best Google Ads training option, here’s how it works:

1. Sign up: Create an account on Google Skillshop or log in with your Google account.
2. Choose a certification: Select the certification that aligns with your career goals, whether it’s Google Ads Search, Display, Video, or another specialization.
3. Study independently: Use the free materials provided on Skillshop to learn the necessary skills. Be prepared to spend time reviewing concepts and practicing without additional guidance.
4. Take the exam: When you feel ready, take the certification exam. Remember, the exams are timed, and there’s no option to pause, so thorough preparation is key.

While Skillshop is a great resource for those who are self-motivated and already familiar with digital marketing, it might not be the best option if you’re looking for comprehensive training, hands-on experience, and job placement support.

If you want to not only earn your Google Ads certification but also get a well-paid marketing job, a structured program like Climb Hire may be a better fit.

3. Online education platforms

General learning platforms, like Coursera, Udemy, or LinkedIn Learning offer a wide range of online courses on Google Ads, which makes them a popular choice if you’re looking for slightly more comprehensive training than what Skillshop offers. These platforms cater to different skill levels, from beginners to advanced marketers.

​​Pros of learning through online education platforms:

• Variety of courses: You’ll find a broad selection of Google Ads courses, including those tailored to the different digital marketing niches and certifications.
• Flexibility: Courses can be completed at your own pace, and you can access the materials anytime, making it ideal for individuals with busy schedules.
• Instructor access: While the courses are taught through self-paced modules, you’ll usually be able to ask questions to the instructor via discussion boards or messaging.

Cons of learning through online education platforms:

• Not free: While the actual Google Ads certifications are free, unlike Climb Hire or Google Skillshop, training courses on these platforms generally require a monthly subscription fee to enroll.
• Inconsistent quality: The quality of courses can vary widely. Researching reviews and instructor credentials is essential to ensure a valuable learning experience.
• Limited guidance for learners: The lack of personalized guidance or real-time support as you’re learning can make it difficult to grasp complex topics or stay motivated.
• No career support: Online education platforms focus on course content and rarely provide assistance with job search, resume building, or interview preparation to help you land a job after earning your certification.

Online education platforms may provide a more in-depth learning experience compared to Google Skillshop, but they still come with limitations, such as inconsistent course quality, limited learner guidance, and a lack of career support.

Choose Climb Hire for free Google Ads certification training

Google Ads certification is always free through Skillshop, but passing the exams takes more than just study materials. Climb Hire provides free, comprehensive training to help you not only pass but also master Google Ads for real-world success

Our four-month program offers structure and support that self-study can’t match, specifically:

• 100% free training: Comprehensive certification preparation at no cost.
• Two valuable certifications: Earn both Google Ads and Meta Ads certifications—a powerful combination that makes your resume stand out to employers.
• Live instruction: Learn in an interactive class from experienced professionals who guide you through complex concepts with clear, practical explanations.
• Dedicated career support: Get personalized help with your job search, resume writing, and interview preparation.

With Climb Hire, 80% of our graduates earn their certification and secure positions within 12 months, often earning salaries upwards of $50k.

Apply to Climb Hire to earn your Google Ads certification and start your digital marketing career.