What Is The Format Of The ITIL 4 DSV Certification Exam?

by Sneha Naskar

The ITIL 4 Drive Stakeholder Value (DSV) certification is a critical qualification for professionals aiming to enhance their knowledge and skills in customer engagement, relationship management, and value co-creation within IT service management. This certification is particularly relevant for individuals involved in service delivery, customer experience, and stakeholder engagement. The ITIL 4 DSV exam is designed to evaluate how well candidates can apply the principles and practices of the ITIL framework in real-world scenarios. 

ITIL 4 DSV Certification Exam

1. Exam Overview

The ITIL 4 DSV certification exam is an essential step for individuals who have completed the ITIL 4 DSV training module. The exam tests your understanding of core concepts like stakeholder engagement, service design, customer journey mapping, and value co-creation. The exam format is structured to evaluate both theoretical knowledge and practical application of these concepts in various service management scenarios.

2. Type of Exam

The ITIL 4 DSV exam is a multiple-choice exam. Multiple-choice exams are widely used in certification programs because they are efficient at evaluating both basic knowledge and the ability to apply learned concepts. Each question in the ITIL 4 DSV exam presents a scenario or case study, followed by several possible answers. Your task is to select the correct answer based on your understanding of the principles taught during the ITIL 4 DSV training.

3. Number of Questions

The ITIL 4 DSV exam consists of 40 multiple-choice questions. These questions are designed to cover a range of topics within the ITIL 4 DSV module, ensuring that you have a well-rounded understanding of how to engage stakeholders, manage customer relationships, and create value throughout the service lifecycle. The scenarios may include real-world situations in service management, requiring you to demonstrate your ability to apply the ITIL 4 DSV framework effectively.

4. Duration of Exam

The duration of the ITIL 4 DSV certification exam is 90 minutes. This timeframe is ample for the 40 questions, but time management is still critical. Since the exam consists of multiple-choice questions with scenario-based problems, it’s important to read each question thoroughly before selecting your answer. Many candidates find that pacing themselves throughout the exam allows for a more focused and accurate assessment of their knowledge.

5. Passing Criteria

The passing mark for the ITIL 4 DSV exam is 70%, which means you need to correctly answer at least 28 out of 40 questions. Achieving this score demonstrates that you have a strong grasp of the concepts related to stakeholder value, customer experience management, service design, and continuous improvement. While the passing rate is relatively achievable, it requires thorough preparation and a solid understanding of the ITIL 4 DSV framework.

6. Closed-Book Exam

The ITIL 4 DSV exam is a closed-book exam, which means that no reference materials, such as books, notes, or online resources, can be used during the test. To succeed, you need to thoroughly study the ITIL 4 DSV module and internalize the key concepts, practices, and terminology. Preparing for the exam involves understanding not only the definitions and principles but also how to apply them in real-world scenarios.

7. Exam Language

The ITIL 4 DSV exam is offered in several languages, including English, Spanish, French, German, and other languages depending on the exam provider. However, English is the most common language for the exam, and most candidates take it in English. Before scheduling your exam, it’s essential to check whether the language you prefer is available and to choose the right exam language based on your comfort level with the terminology.

ITIL® 4 Drive Stakeholder Value (DSV)

8. Online and Paper Exam Options

The ITIL 4 DSV exam can be taken online or in a traditional paper-based format, depending on the region and the exam provider. The online exam option is widely available and convenient, allowing candidates to take the exam remotely at their preferred time and location. If you choose the online option, ensure that you have a reliable internet connection and a quiet environment where you can focus during the 90-minute exam period. Some regions may still offer the option to take the exam in person at an accredited exam center, though this option is becoming less common as more exams are conducted online.

9. Registration and Exam Fees

Before taking the exam, candidates need to register through an accredited training provider or exam provider. The cost of the ITIL 4 DSV exam can vary based on the provider, region, and any bundled services (such as exam preparation courses). Typically, exam fees range from $250 to $400, though prices may fluctuate depending on the location and the exam provider. It’s important to check the exact pricing and any discounts that may be available before registering for the exam.

10. Preparation for the Exam

The key to passing the ITIL 4 DSV certification exam is thorough preparation. ITIL 4 DSV training courses are offered by accredited training providers and are the most effective way to learn the material. These courses cover all aspects of the DSV module, including stakeholder engagement, customer journey mapping, value co-creation, service design, and continuous improvement. In addition to formal training, many candidates find that taking practice exams or reviewing sample questions helps them become familiar with the format and types of questions they’ll encounter.

11. Post-Exam Certification

Upon passing the ITIL 4 DSV exam, you will receive the ITIL 4 Drive Stakeholder Value certification. This credential demonstrates your ability to engage with stakeholders effectively, co-create value, and deliver customer-centric services. The certification is valuable for professionals working in IT service management roles, particularly those involved in service delivery, customer relationship management, and service design. It can enhance career prospects, boost credibility, and position you as a skilled professional in the field of IT service management.

Conclusion

The ITIL 4 DSV certification exam is a rigorous but manageable assessment of your understanding of stakeholder value, service design, and customer engagement within the IT service management lifecycle. The multiple-choice format, combined with real-world scenario questions, tests both theoretical knowledge and practical application. By preparing thoroughly, understanding key concepts, and managing your time during the exam, you can increase your chances of passing and earning this valuable certification.

ITIL® 4 Drive Stakeholder Value (DSV)