Google offers seven different certifications for teachers, coaches, and IT administrators. This LIVE webinar was recorded on May 21, 2025 to provide an overview of these certifications with tips and advice for each one.

Video Timeline:

Click a time-stamp to skip forward to that portion of the webinar (opens in YouTube).

• 0:00 Intro
• 5:12 Level 1
• 10:17 Level 2
• 17:04 Certified Coach
• 19:04 Certified Trainer
• 25:54 Certified Innovator
• 35:40 ChromeOS admin
• 38:52 Google Workspace Admin
• 42:41 Q&A

Certification Summary:

• Google Certified Educator Level 1 – the Level 1 certification is suitable for anyone using Google products in an educational setting and documents basic proficiency. The exam consists of various question formats, requires an 80% passing score, allows three hours for completion, and has a $10 fee. This test is open book and open note, focusing heavily on the Google Drive suite of tools. Download my free L1 study guide to get started!
• Google Certified Educator Level 2 – the Level 2 exam as similar in format to Level 1 but covering a broader range of tools and requiring a deeper understanding. The exam costs $25 and includes everything from Level 1 plus additional tools like Google Trends and Google Arts & Culture. The Level 2 certification is a better fit for those who enjoy technology and are comfortable with more advanced features. Download my free L2 study guide to get started!
• Google Certified Coaching Program – the coaching certification is a newer program for instructional coaches working directly with teachers. This program requires Level 1 and 2 certifications, completion of a coaching curriculum, and building a coaching portfolio over roughly a school year. There are no deadlines or costs to apply for this certification.
• Google Certified Trainer Program – the trainer certification is for individuals who work with groups and schools to provide professional development on Google tools. Certified trainers are recognized by Google and may receive opportunities for paid training engagements. The requirements include Level 1 and 2 certifications, a skills assessment, application questions, a case study, and a short video. Download my free trainer application template to get started!
• Google Certified Innovator Program – the innovator program is a prestigious and competitive program for educational leaders using technology to solve complex problems. Applicants need Level 2 certification and must propose a project to address a specific problem. The program involves a three-day on-site academy at a Google office and 12 months of project work, offering a lifetime membership.
• IT Administrator Certifications – Google offers two certifications for IT administrators, specifically the Chrome OS certification and the Google Workspace certification. The Chrome OS certification validates skills in managing Chromebooks and requires knowledge of device enrollment, security, and policies. Similarly, the Google Workspace certification focuses on user policies and management and has a comparable exam format and recommended experience.

Resources for Teachers & Instructional Coaches:

• ​Google Educator L1 / L2 Study guide
• Certified Trainer template
• Google Certification Academy (online course)
• Google Trainer Academy (online course)

Resources for IT administrators:

• ChromeOS exam study guide
• Google Admin exam study guide
• Google Admin Bootcamp (online course)
• Chromebook Academy for IT admins (online course)

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