Why is my ACM TLS certificate still pending validation after DNS records were created in Route 53?

Summary: Discover why your AWS Certificate Manager (ACM) TLS certificate might still be in a pending validation state even after DNS records were added in Route 53.
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Why is my ACM TLS certificate still pending validation after DNS records were created in Route 53?

Amazon Web Services (AWS) offers a robust suite of services, among which AWS Certificate Manager (ACM) and Amazon Route 53 are critical for managing and deploying secure websites. However, a recurring issue faced by many users is the seemingly "stuck" pending validation status of an ACM TLS certificate, even after DNS records have been created in Route 53. Let’s delve into why this happens and how you can resolve it.

Understanding ACM and Route 53

AWS Certificate Manager (ACM) is designed to handle the complexity of SSL/TLS certificates, making it easier to provision, manage, and deploy certificates for use with AWS services and your internal connected resources. Amazon Route 53 is a highly available and scalable Domain Name System (DNS) web service, which routes user requests to appropriate endpoints based on DNS records.

Why Certificates May Remain in Pending Validation

Here are a few common reasons why your ACM TLS certificate may still be pending validation:

DNS Record Propagation Delay

DNS changes need time to propagate across the internet. Though Route 53 typically propagates changes quickly, it can still take several minutes to hours for DNS records to be updated worldwide. During this propagation period, ACM won’t recognize the validation records, keeping the status as pending.

Incorrect DNS Configuration

Ensure that the CNAME records exactly match the values provided by ACM. Mistakes in copying, including trailing spaces or missing characters, can cause the validation to fail.

Domain Ownership

ACM requires proof of domain ownership. If the domain is not properly registered or is still propagating, ACM cannot validate ownership. Also, if the DNS records aren't added to the correct DNS zone, validation will fail.

Cached DNS Resolver

Sometimes, cached DNS data can delay the validation process. If a resolver retains old data, ACM might not see the updated records, leading to a continued pending status.

How to Resolve Pending Validation Issues

Verify DNS Records

Double-check the configuration in Route 53. Ensure CNAME records match the information provided by ACM. Correct any discrepancies.

Allow Time for Propagation

Be patient. DNS propagation can take from several minutes to a couple of hours. Check back periodically to see if the status changes.

Check for Proper Domain Setup

Confirm the domain is correctly set up in Route 53. Ensure domain ownership is clear and that you have administrational access.

Clear Cache

Sometimes, a simple DNS cache flush can resolve validation delays. Flushing your local DNS cache ensures you are not viewing outdated data.

Conclusion

Pending validation of your ACM TLS certificate, despite correct DNS record creation, can be frustrating. By understanding the role of DNS propagation, ensuring proper DNS configuration, verifying domain ownership, and considering cached data issues, you can typically resolve these delays. Ensuring meticulous attention to details during setup will significantly reduce validation issues.

If problems persist, AWS support is always available to provide further assistance.



Following these steps can save time and avoid the frustrations associated with delayed TLS certificate validation, ensuring your website remains secure and live.