Should I put certifications before or after education?

Place certifications after work experience and education if you have a dedicated section. If a specific certification is a job requirement, mention it in your summary as well.

How many certifications should I list on my resume?

Include three to seven relevant certifications. Quality matters more than quantity. Only list certifications that add value to your target role.

Do online course certificates count as certifications?

Professional certifications from recognized bodies (PMI, CompTIA, AWS) carry more weight than online course completions. Put online courses in a separate Professional Development section.

Should I include certifications that expired?

Generally, no. Expired certifications can raise questions. If you're actively renewing, note Renewal in progress next to it.

Where do I put certifications on a two-page resume?

On a two-page resume, place the certifications section on the first page if they're relevant to the job. If not, the second page after education works fine.

Do employers verify certifications?

Yes, many employers verify certifications during the background check process. Always list accurate information, including correct dates and credential IDs.

Can I list certifications I earned in another country?

Yes, but note if the certification has international recognition. For regulated professions (healthcare, law, accounting), check if the credential is valid in the country where you're applying.

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Blog / Resume Writing

Resume Writing

How to List Certifications on a Resume in 2026: Format, Examples & ATS Tips

Yasser Al-Khateeb

Author

August 10, 2026 Published Updated August 23, 2026 13 min read

Listing certifications on your Engineer Resume 2026: How to Write a Resume That Land…

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📋 Editorial note: This article was produced following our editorial standards. We research all claims independently. Last reviewed: August 2026.

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