Will AZ-204 still be accepted as a prerequisite for AZ-400 after it retires on July 31, 2026?

Question

Hi,

I'm currently planning my certification path toward the Microsoft Certified: DevOps Engineer Expert (AZ-400), and I want to use the Azure Developer Associate (AZ-204) as my prerequisite.

However, since AZ-204 is retiring on July 31, 2026, I have two concerns I'd love clarity on:

1. If I pass AZ-204 before July 31, 2026 — will it still be accepted as a valid prerequisite for AZ-400 after the retirement date?

I want to make sure that earning the badge before retirement means it remains recognized as a prereq, and I won't be told it's no longer accepted after July 31.

2. Will AI-200 (the replacement for AZ-204) eventually be accepted as a prerequisite for AZ-400?

If someone earns AI-200 after July 31, will they be able to use it to fulfill the AZ-400 prerequisite requirement, or will AZ-104 become the only accepted path?

Answer 1

Regarding the first question, passing AZ-204 before it retires on July 31, 2026, permanently fulfills the prerequisite requirement for AZ-400. Once you earn your badge, Microsoft recognizes it for this expert certification path.

More at https://learn.microsoft.com/en-ie/answers/questions/2259640/devops-expert-certificate-eligibility

As far as the second goes, as per [https://learn.microsoft.com/en-au/answers/questions/5852510/prerequisite-for-the-devops-engineer-expert-(az-40](https://learn.microsoft.com/en-au/answers/questions/5852510/prerequisite-for-the-devops-engineer-expert-(az-40)

AI-200 will be added as one of the prerequisites for DevOps Engineer Expert once the exam becomes generally available.

https://techcommunity.microsoft.com/blog/skills-hub-blog/the-ai-job-boom-is-here-are-you-ready-to-showcase-your-skills/4494128/replies/4501088

---

If the above response helps answer your question, remember to "Accept Answer" so that others in the community facing similar issues can easily find the solution. Your contribution is highly appreciated.

hth

Marcin