Q: What's new in the AI-Empwered SAFe Release Train Engineer course?

A: Based on customer feedback, the final lesson “AI for RTEs” has been removed from the course, and the content of the lesson has been integrated throughout the other lessons. There are new and relocated lecture slides and activities in each lesson of the course to support the RTE in learning about their role and exploring how to use AI to accelerate success.

Q: Has the AI-related material been incorporated into the RTE exam or practice test?

A: Yes. This update includes new exam topics on AI-empowered SAFe, crafting AI prompts, and responsible AI. The exam and practice test have been refactored to introduce new questions to assess these topics. The exam is still 60 questions, and learners have a 120-minute window to complete the exam.

Q: What is the new version number of the courseware?

A: The Scaled Agile Framework has transitioned away from using version numbers. Consequently, the associated courses are moving away from the "6.0" base version. From now on, course releases will be identified by their release date in the format [abbreviated release year].[ abbreviated release month]. Therefore, the newest version of the RTE courseware is 26.6.

Q: Where can I find the Virtual Classroom for RTE (26.6)?

A: SAFe Collaborate was retired in November 2025.

Q: What is the process to upgrade my SAFe® RTE certification to the AI-Empowered RTE?

A: Current Certified SAFe® 6 RTEs can upgrade by completing the AI Skills for Release Train Engineers SAFe Skill, available in the SAFe Skills Library. These short, self-paced e-learnings take about 45 minutes each to complete. Once complete, your certification will automatically be updated to Certified AI-Empowered SAFe Release Train Engineer, and you will be issued a new digital badge.

Q: Do I have to pay to upgrade to the AI-Empowered RTE?

A: If you currently hold an active SAFe® 6 RTE certification, there is no additional cost to upgrade. The SAFe Skill modules are included with your membership. However, if your RTE6 certification has expired, you will need to renew it first in order to regain access to the SAFe Skill library and complete the upgrade.

Q: What happens to my RTE6 certification after I upgrade?

A: When you complete the upgrade, you’ll receive the new AI-Empowered POPM certification, but your original SAFe 6 RTE credential will also remain in your records. You’ll hold both certifications going forward, but you will only need to renew the AI-Empowered RTE certification going forward.

Q: I am an RTE6, how can I become an AI-Empowered RTE?

A: Active RTEs can either complete the upgrade to SAFe 6.0 via the upgrade learning path and then complete their SAFe Skill, or enroll in a new AI-Empowered SAFe Release Train Engineer course. Either option will deliver the new achievement.

Q: I passed a previous version of the exam and have been re-enrolled in the course, is it necessary for me to pass the updated exam to earn the new certification?

A: Yes, earning the new certification requires passing the current exam. The curriculum has evolved, and the refreshed assessment now includes competencies in AI-empowered SAFe and practical AI applications within the framework.

Note: Certified individuals with active memberships may choose to complete the relevant SAFe Skill module via the upgrade learning path as an alternative to retaking the exam.

Q: What do I need to do as a trainer to be prepared to teach the new version of RTE?

A: Trainers will not be required to complete a new enablement plan; however, new enablement videos will be available starting June 9 in a new Trainer Enablement Plan that walks through details of how to teach each lesson. We recommend you watch that series, review the updated release notes, and then practice your delivery with the new lesson.

Q: What is the last day to teach RTE (2025.11.25)?

A: Trainers will have a 90-day transition period to convert their classes. Starting Tuesday, September 8, 2026 legacy RTE classes will no longer be available to schedule or roster learners.

Q: When can I start scheduling RTE (26.6) classes?

A: The new learning plan and licenses will be available on June 9, 2026.

Q: Do I need to convert my legacy classes to AI-Empowered classes?

A: Starting on September 8th you will no longer be able to create legacy RTE classes or roster learners to legacy classes. Between June 9 and September 8, trainers and admins will need to modify the learning plans for classes scheduled after September 8th. Be aware that you may need to remove learners, exchange licenses, and then re-roster learners in order to apply the new learning plan. Watch a quick tutorial on how to complete this process.

Q: What badges will learners receive if I choose not to convert my classes?

A: Learners will be awarded SAFe 6 badges. To upgrade their achievement, they will need to complete the SAFe Skill after successfully passing the exam.