What is Xero certification?
Xero certification is Xero's free training and assessment for accountants and bookkeepers. It runs in three levels taken in order, Level 1 Xero associate, Level 2 Xero professional and Level 3 Xero specialist, plus payroll and migration specialist badges. Each certification lasts 12 months and is renewed with a scenario-based test.
Also calledXero advisor certificationXero certified advisor
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- Cost
- Free
- Levels
- Level 1 to Level 3
- Renewal
- Every 12 months, 80% pass
How Xero certification works
Level 1 covers data entry and setup, Level 2 covers complex features and period-end reporting, and Level 3 covers advanced features for running a business entirely on Xero. Each level, and the Payroll specialist badge, can be taken as self-paced online modules, an interactive live webinar, or assessment only for people who already know the material. The Migration specialist badge is a learning path. Passing earns a digital badge and a PDF certificate with the expiry date, which can be shared on LinkedIn. Certification lasts 12 months from the highest level's pass date. Recertification is a scenario-based assessment at the highest level held, with an 80% pass mark and a 24-hour wait after a failed attempt; passing Level 3 renews Levels 1 and 2. Level 1, Level 2 and Payroll specialist recertification opened in July 2026, and Level 3 recertification opens in February 2027. A lapsed certification needs the full course and assessment again. To join the Xero partner programme, one staff member must commit to completing certification within 30 days, and at least one person needs an active Level 1 or higher certification to keep partner status and benefits. CPD points come from the learning content, not the assessment alone.
Common questions
Is Xero certification free?+
Yes. All three levels and the specialist badges are free, whether taken as self-paced modules, a live webinar or assessment only.
How long does Xero certification last?+
12 months from the date the highest level was passed. Xero sends reminders about 90, 30 and 2 days before expiry, and recertifying resets the clock for another 12 months.
What is the pass mark for Xero recertification?+
80%. The test is scenario-based and covers key releases since the last certification, with a 24-hour cooling-off period after a failed first attempt.
Do Xero partners need certification?+
Yes. One staff member must commit to completing certification within 30 days of joining, and at least one person needs an active Level 1 or higher certification to keep partner status and benefits.
Software covered by Xero certification
Part of Accountio’s accounting technology coverage · Glossary
