Microsoft is offering a free chance to pass the Virtual Earth certification test while it is in beta for the next few weeks, more details here - Virtual Earth test . This is actually a good way to prepare for the test because it lets you see all the test questions! There is no real time limit (three hours) so you can sit and memorize all the questions to go and study for later. Then when the real test comes out you will have a good chance to pass. When I tried to register there were limited times and dates available, probably because it is a three hour test - so register early.