LinkedIn Learning charges $39.99/month — but there are several legitimate ways to access it for free or at no cost in 2026. Here is exactly what is available and how to access it.
Ways to get LinkedIn Learning for free
- Public library access (US, UK, Canada, Australia): Many public libraries provide free LinkedIn Learning access to cardholders. In the US, check your library’s digital resources page — many use the Lynda.com/LinkedIn Learning library partnership. This is the best free option and is completely legitimate.
- LinkedIn Premium free trial: New LinkedIn Premium subscribers get a 1-month free trial that includes full LinkedIn Learning access. Cancel before the trial ends to avoid being charged.
- University subscriptions: Many universities provide LinkedIn Learning free to students and staff through institutional licenses. Check your university portal.
- Employer access: LinkedIn Learning is commonly provided as a workplace benefit. Check your company’s HR or L&D portal.
- Free sample content: LinkedIn Learning makes some courses and individual videos available free without login. Search LinkedIn Learning and filter for “Free” in the content type selector.
What LinkedIn Learning is good for
- Business skills: project management, leadership, communication
- Creative software: Adobe suite, video production, design tools
- Tech tools: Microsoft Office, Python, web development basics
- Career development: interview prep, resume writing, networking
LinkedIn Learning certificates — do employers care?
LinkedIn Learning certificates display directly on your LinkedIn profile, which gives them visibility in recruiter searches. However, they carry less employer weight than Coursera’s Google, IBM, or Meta certificates. They are better used as supplementary credentials rather than primary career qualifications.
Bottom line
Check your public library first — many provide free full access. If your library does not offer it, the employer benefit route is the next best option. Paying $40/month for individual access is hard to justify unless you are completing multiple courses per month.