Validates knowledge of the DMAIC method, lean tools and the statistics needed to lead Six Sigma process-improvement projects.
483IntermediateHas prerequisites
Best Six Sigma & Quality Certifications in 2026
Quality credentials cover process improvement, quality engineering, auditing and quality leadership. Six Sigma belts are one part of the field. Choose by your work: improving processes, engineering quality into products, auditing quality systems or leading a quality function.
Validates knowledge of leading Six Sigma projects, including the DMAIC method, advanced statistics, team management and organizational deployment.
585AdvancedHas prerequisites
Validates foundational knowledge of Six Sigma fundamentals, the DMAIC phases, basic quality tools and supporting improvement projects.
434EntryNo prerequisites
Validates knowledge of quality auditing, including audit fundamentals, planning and performing audits, auditor competencies and quality tools.
550AdvancedHas prerequisites
Validates knowledge of Lean Six Sigma problem solving, covering DMAIC phases, lean tools and statistical analysis.
402IntermediateNo prerequisites
Validates advanced knowledge of the DMAIC method, including regression, designed experiments and statistical tools for Lean Six Sigma.
516AdvancedNo prerequisites
How to choose a certification
Which certification fits your goal?
- Process improvement foundations: Six Sigma Yellow Belt. ASQ's entry-level Six Sigma belt for people who support improvement projects. There is no experience requirement.
- Applying Six Sigma methods: Six Sigma Green Belt. ASQ's belt for people who lead or support DMAIC improvement projects. You need three years of relevant work experience before applying for the exam.
- Quality engineering: ASQ CQE. ASQ's certification in quality engineering: quality systems, product and process control, and statistical methods. It requires eight years of relevant experience, three in a decision-making role; a degree reduces the total.
- Quality auditing: ASQ CQA. ASQ's certification for auditing quality management systems. It requires eight years of relevant experience, three in a decision-making role; a degree reduces the total.
- Quality leadership: ASQ CMQ/OE. ASQ's certification for leading quality and organizational excellence. It requires 10 years of relevant experience, five in a decision-making role; a degree reduces the total.
What to know before choosing
- Belt names vary by provider. Many organizations award Six Sigma belts, with different exams, project and experience requirements. The belts listed here are ASQ's.
- Exam or project. Some providers require a completed improvement project. ASQ's Yellow and Green Belts are exam-based, with an experience requirement for Green Belt.
- Specialist routes beyond Six Sigma. If your work is auditing, quality engineering or leading a quality function, CQA, CQE or CMQ/OE fits better than a higher belt.