A low-cost way to test interest
An instructor advises unsure students to start with Yellow Belt to see whether they enjoy the subject before paying for Green or Black Belt.
Certified Six Sigma Yellow Belt (CSSYB)
Validates foundational knowledge of Six Sigma fundamentals, the DMAIC phases, basic quality tools and supporting improvement projects.
Summary
CSSYB is ASQ's entry-level Six Sigma certification, for team members who support improvement projects. It tests DMAIC basics, simple quality tools and the role of a team member, and gives you a recognized starting point before moving on to the Green Belt.
Good fit if
- You are new to Six Sigma and want an ASQ credential
- You support improvement projects by collecting data or mapping processes
- Your employer starts team members at Yellow Belt
Look elsewhere if
- You have three years of improvement work: CSSGB
- You want a Green Belt without the experience: IASSC Green Belt
- You want general project management: CAPM
Salary & jobs
Prerequisites
Cost
What holders say
Valued as a support role
Practitioners describe Yellow Belts as useful project helpers in organizations with mature improvement programs, and judge the person by how they applied the tools.
Limited on its own for engineers
Industrial engineers in one thread say Yellow Belt may break a tie at best and recommend a Green Belt with a project instead.
Certification path
ASQ’s Six Sigma certifications run Yellow Belt, Green Belt and Black Belt.
Renewal
CSSYB is a lifetime certification.
- Validity
- No expiry
- Renewal requirement
- None
- Renewal fee
- None
Alternatives
FAQ
How much does the CSSYB exam cost?
$434, or $334 for ASQ members. A retake costs $234.
Do I need experience for CSSYB?
No. There is no education or work experience requirement.
Does CSSYB expire?
No. It is a lifetime certification with no recertification.
Is the CSSYB exam open book?
Yes, at the test centre and online. All references must be bound.
Can I take CSSYB online?
Yes. Prometric offers live remote proctoring in most countries, alongside test centres.
Do I need Yellow Belt before Green Belt?
No. CSSGB requires three years of relevant work experience, not a Yellow Belt.
Last updated October 2026