Welcome Brittany!

From my experience, getting started doesn't necessarily require taking exams or paying for a certificate. My advice would be for you to explore the opportunities available in your area and carefully read the guidelines for the ones you are interested in. Certain shops will require you to go through a course and then take an exam, but that will be clearly noted. I personally started with the Shopping Scout certification and didn't pay for any additional certificates.

You should always make sure you're comfortable with the Mystery Shopping Provider's (MSP) requirements and expectations before requesting a shop. Pay close attention to their payment policy, as some MSPs have longer processing times before you receive payment.

I am also relatively new, having only been at this for less than two months, but I haven't encountered any issues so far.

Hope you enjoy getting started!

Sara