Professional Scrum Master I (Scrum.org) and SAFe Release Train Engineer (Scaled Agile) cover different bodies of knowledge. Here's how they compare side by side — and how to pick the one that fits your role.
The fastest way to see which credential fits your experience and goals.
| PSM IProfessional Scrum Master I | SAFe RTESAFe Release Train Engineer | |
|---|---|---|
| Level | Foundation | Advanced |
| Exam length | 1h 0m | 2h 0m |
| Questions (real exam) | ~80 | ~60 |
| Pass mark | 85% | 78% |
| In a sentence | Prove you truly understand the Scrum Guide. | Chief Scrum Master of the Agile Release Train. |
| Free practice | 298 sample questions | 109 sample questions |
Exam parameters are compiled from each vendor's official exam guide. Always confirm the current format, eligibility and fees on the official Scrum.org and Scaled Agile site before booking. ExamDeck is an independent study tool and is not affiliated with Scrum.org or Scaled Agile.
Figures as published by each vendor, transcribed on the date shown. Where a vendor prices differently for members, both prices are listed.
| PSM Ifacts as of August 2026 | SAFe RTEfacts as of September 2026 | |
|---|---|---|
| Fees | Exam attempt: $200 (verify on scrum.org) Course requirement: None — self-study allowed Renewal: None — valid for life |
RTE course (required, advanced level): includes ONE exam attempt within 60 days Retake — unproctored: $50 (0/10/30-day waits) Retake — proctored: $450 study guide / $495 retake FAQ Renewal (annual): SAFe Advanced Studio membership $295/yr + tax, 24 CEUs - also covers foundational certifications (verified 18 Sep 2026) |
| Study time | commonly reported 20–40 hours for practitioners (the 85% pass mark punishes casual prep) | commonly reported 20–30 hours (course plus self-study), heavily dependent on real ART experience |
| Renewal | None — PSM I is valid for life, with no renewal fees or continuing-education requirements | Annual renewal via SAFe Advanced Studio membership ($295/year + tax) plus 24 CEUs a year — no re-exam required (verified 18 Sep 2026) |
| Entry requirement | No prerequisites — anyone can buy an attempt and take it online, anytime. | Completion of the 3-day SAFe Release Train Engineer course (first attempt within 60 days of the course). |
| Body of knowledge | the Scrum Guide (2020) | the SAFe 6.0 framework |
| Full fact pages | PSM I cost · format · eligibility | SAFe RTE cost · format · eligibility |
Compare the three-year cost of any two certifications, member or not, with the certification cost calculator.
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PSM I (Professional Scrum Master I) is a Scrum.org foundation credential, while SAFe RTE (SAFe Release Train Engineer) comes from Scaled Agile (advanced). They cover different bodies of knowledge, so the choice depends on the role you're aiming for rather than difficulty alone.
The PSM I exam runs about 1h 0m with ~80 questions; the SAFe RTE exam runs about 2h 0m with ~60 questions. The more senior credential generally demands more applied, scenario-based judgement.
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