Guidance Needed for a Beginner Transitioning to ServiceNow Administration and Development

[muhammadali6919]

Hello Everyone,

I am new to the ServiceNow ecosystem, but I have several years of hands-on experience with PHP, HTML, CSS, and JavaScript.
I’m excited to shift my career toward ServiceNow, yet I am unsure how to design a clear learning roadmap that takes advantage of my existing web development skills.

Could you please guide me on:

• The best starting point for a ServiceNow newcomer with a web development background

• Key certifications or learning paths that are most valuable in today’s job market

• Recommended resources, courses, or real-world projects to build practical experience

• Tips to move toward a ServiceNow Developer or Administrator role

Any advice, recommended study plans, or personal experiences would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you in advance for helping me navigate this new journey!

Best regards,
Muhammad Ali

[Rafael Batistot]

Hi @muhammadali6919 

These are some important certifications for this fist moment 

1. Certified System Administrator (CSA) – Mandatory entry-level. Covers platform basics.
2. Certified Application Developer (CAD) – Perfect for your coding background; focuses on building custom apps, script usage, and Service Portal.
3. ITSM Certification (optional but in high demand) – Adds business value to your technical skills.
4. Later: CIS (Certified Implementation Specialist) in ITSM, HR, CSM, or other specialties depending on your career direction.

Market Value Tip: Right now, CSA + CAD + ITSM is a  combo for developer/admin roles.

i suggest start with this path courses 

CSA

https://learning.servicenow.com/lxp/en/pages/now-learning-get-certified?id=amap_detail&achievement_i...

CAD

https://learning.servicenow.com/lxp/en/now-platform/certified-application-developer-cad-learning-pat...

[muhammadali6919]

Hi Rafael Batistot, 

Thank you so much for taking the time to share such a clear certification path and market tips—it is incredibly helpful for someone like me who is just starting out.

I’m very interested in pursuing remote opportunities in ServiceNow development/administration in the future.
Could you please share your insights on:

• How to find and qualify for remote ServiceNow roles (platforms, networking tips, etc.)

• An approximate learning timeline to become job-ready after starting the CSA path

• How long it usually takes to reach a level of practical expertise where one can confidently handle real projects

Your guidance on these points would mean a lot as I plan my next steps.
Thanks again for your valuable advice!

Best regards,
Muhammad Ali

[Dr Atul G- LNG]

A helpful post

https://www.servicenow.com/community/sysadmin-forum/starting-my-servicenow-sysadmin-journey/m-p/3386...