>What are the options for becoming Linux certified. I would like to use certification as a framework for learning Linux. Something to keep me focused and on track.
>
>Looking at the Red Hat exams, they are over $700US. Is there a more budget route? Is there more generic linux certification that is still useful?

There are lots of views and offerings on that subject...

http://www.lpi.org
http://www.linuxcertification.com
http://www.softpanorama.org/Sysadmin/certification.shtml

Here are some sample questions:
http://www.exampractice.com/certification/linux/q1.shtml

Have fun!