Training for the Professional Data Engineer Certification

[Aravind_GCP]

Could you please provide information for below 2 question?

#1 Is it mandatory to complete the “Train for the exam” path on https://www.cloudskillsboost.google/paths/16 before taking the GCP Professional Data Engineer certification exam?

I’ve already begun my preparation using Coursera's training materials. Could you please confirm whether I must exclusively use the Cloud Skills Boost path, or if my current approach is acceptable?

#2 Certifications | Google Cloud giving opportunity “Level up with 50% off Google Cloud certifications. Apply code CertifyToday when you register before April 30.”

is this OK to register now and take the test in couple of months? IF so how many months I could wait after registering using the CertifyToday  CODE!

Thanks