Facts last checked: September 2026 against Scrum Alliance's published information. Requirements can change, so always confirm the current rules with Scrum Alliance or your trainer before you enrol.
The Certified Agile Leader 1, or CAL 1, is Scrum Alliance's first-level certification in Agile leadership. It is designed for managers, executives and anyone who leads people or change in an organisation using Agile ways of working. The programme was restructured in 2024, so many older articles describe courses that no longer exist. This guide explains how CAL 1 works today.
Key takeaways
- CAL 1 is a 16-hour course taught by Certified Scrum Trainers, in person or virtually.
- There are no prerequisites, although basic knowledge of Agile is helpful.
- On 15 April 2024, the former CAL Essentials, CAL Teams and CAL Organizations courses were retired and replaced by CAL 1 and CAL 2.
- After completing the course requirements, you receive a digital badge and a two-year Scrum Alliance membership.
- CAL 1 is a prerequisite for CAL 2, and certifications are renewed every two years.
CAL 1 at a glance
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Issued by | Scrum Alliance |
| Course | 16 hours with a Certified Scrum Trainer, in person or virtual |
| Prerequisites | None; foundational knowledge of Agile is helpful |
| How you earn it | Complete all course requirements |
| What you receive | A digital badge and a two-year professional membership |
| Next level | CAL 2 (CAL 1 required first) |
| Validity | Two years, then renewal |
What changed in 2024
Until April 2024, Scrum Alliance's leadership programme included three separate courses: CAL Essentials, CAL Teams and CAL Organizations. On 15 April 2024, these were retired and their best elements were combined into CAL 1 and CAL 2, to simplify the programme. Eligible holders of the old certifications had their badges converted to CAL 1, keeping the same expiry date. Scrum Alliance notes that people who completed only one of the old courses have not met the learning requirements for a CAL 1 badge.
If you read an article that tells you to choose between CAL Essentials, CAL Teams and CAL Organizations, it is describing the old programme.
What is CAL 1 about?
For a broader introduction to the topic, see our complete agile leadership guide.
CAL 1 focuses on how leaders can help their organisations adapt and succeed in complex, fast-changing conditions. Scrum Alliance describes it as building leadership skills such as collaboration, team empowerment, adaptability and continuous improvement, so leaders can support teams and influence organisational structures. Course content varies by trainer, but common themes include:
- How Agile leadership differs from traditional command-and-control management
- Creating the conditions for self-managing, empowered teams
- Leading organisational change and dealing with resistance
- Shaping culture and structure to support agility
- Inspecting and adapting your own leadership behaviour
How to earn CAL 1, step by step
- Choose a CAL 1 course. Courses are taught by Certified Scrum Trainers, in person or virtually. Check the course details for format and expectations.
- Attend the 16-hour course. Take part fully in the sessions and activities.
- Complete all course requirements. Your trainer confirms completion with Scrum Alliance.
- Receive your badge. You receive a digital badge and a two-year professional membership, and can add the badge to your professional profiles.
Who should take CAL 1?
- Managers and team leaders working with Agile teams
- Executives and senior leaders leading an Agile transformation
- Scrum Masters and Agile coaches moving into leadership roles
- HR, operations and change leaders supporting new ways of working
Scrum Alliance positions CAL 1 as suitable for professionals in any industry who want to grow their leadership skills and manage organisational change.
Renewal and CAL 2
Scrum Alliance certifications, including CAL 1, are active for two years before they must be renewed with Scrum Education Units and a renewal fee. Check Scrum Alliance's renewal page for current requirements. CAL 1 is a prerequisite for CAL 2, the next level of the leadership programme.
Agile leadership certification with Scrum Intelligence
Scrum Intelligence offers its own online leadership certification, Scrum Leader Plus, for Scrum Masters and managers leading Agile across multiple teams. It covers coaching multiple teams, cross-team dependencies and organisational change. The exam is taken online on ExamVault by CertExpert with three attempts included, and the certificate and digital badge are valid for two years. See the certification page for current learning paths and prices. For the day-to-day role that leaders support, see our complete Scrum Master guide.
Frequently asked questions
What is CAL 1?
Certified Agile Leader 1 is Scrum Alliance's first-level Agile leadership certification, earned through a 16-hour course with a Certified Scrum Trainer.
Are there prerequisites for CAL 1?
No. Foundational knowledge of Agile is helpful but not required.
Is CAL 1 the same as CAL Essentials?
No. CAL Essentials, CAL Teams and CAL Organizations were retired on 15 April 2024 and replaced by CAL 1 and CAL 2.
Can I take CAL 1 online?
Yes. CAL 1 courses are available in person or virtually.
What do I receive after CAL 1?
A digital badge and a two-year professional membership with Scrum Alliance.
How long is CAL 1 valid?
Two years, after which it must be renewed.
Do I need CAL 1 before CAL 2?
Yes. CAL 1 is a prerequisite for CAL 2.