From Feb 2020, this new method implied  You should have the CCNA knowledge before attempting the CCNP due to the changes that have been made for the exams. You could go straight for the CCNP but you may be at a disadvantage unless you have over 5 years of heavy Cisco experience. As per the below link, CCNP has no pre-requisites  https://www.cisco.com/c/en/us/training-events/training-certific... (more)