SAFe for Teams and Leading SAFe are both foundational SAFe certifications, but they target different audiences and experience levels. Understanding their differences helps you choose the right entry point into SAFe.
Certification Overview
SAFe for Teams
SAFe for Teams is designed for team members working within Agile Release Trains. It provides practical knowledge of how to work effectively as a team member in a SAFe environment. This certification is ideal for developers, testers, business analysts, and other team members.
Leading SAFe (SAFe Agilist)
Leading SAFe is designed for leaders, managers, and change agents responsible for implementing SAFe. It provides comprehensive understanding of the SAFe framework at all levels. This certification is ideal for executives, managers, and transformation leaders.
Key Differences
| Aspect | SAFe for Teams | Leading SAFe | |--------|----------------|-------------| | Target Audience | Team members, individual contributors | Leaders, managers, executives | | Focus | Team-level practices, ART participation | Enterprise transformation, SAFe framework | | Experience Level | Entry to mid-level | Mid to senior-level | | Prerequisites | Basic agile/Scrum knowledge | No prerequisites, but leadership experience helpful | | Salary Range | $70,000-$100,000 | $100,000-$150,000 | | Career Path | Senior team member, Scrum Master, Product Owner | Transformation Leader, Enterprise Agile Coach |
Which Certification Should You Choose?
Choose SAFe for Teams if: - You're a team member working in a SAFe organization - You want to understand how to contribute effectively to ARTs - You're building foundational SAFe knowledge - You're newer to agile and SAFe - You want team-level SAFe expertise
Choose Leading SAFe if: - You're a leader or manager driving agile transformation - You want to understand SAFe at the enterprise level - You're responsible for implementing SAFe - You want to lead organizational change - You're preparing for leadership roles in agile organizations
Career Progression
Many professionals start with SAFe for Teams to build foundational knowledge, then progress to Leading SAFe as they advance into leadership roles. However, Leading SAFe can also be pursued directly if you're already in a leadership position.
Training Options
Agile36 offers both SAFe for Teams and Leading SAFe certifications with expert instruction and comprehensive exam preparation. Our courses prepare you for success in either role.
Ready to start your SAFe journey? Explore our [SAFe for Teams](/safe-for-teams) and [Leading SAFe](/leading-safe-6) courses to find the right certification for your role and experience level.