+i have heard that the test is fairly hard+
as in any test, that surely depends on how well you actually know the subject matter, and how well prepared you are for the test.
i've heard the complete opposite. in fact for a long time it was an open book, open app, multiple choice test ... tests don't get much easier than that. test conditions may have changed tho.
+you are aware that you have to train for a Cretan number of years before you are allowed to take it+
not true. unless Cretan is a kind of fraction from Greece that i haven't heard of 🙂 you do have to take the test at an authorized training center tho. for level one exams you are not required to sit a class, for level two you must have level one certification already, and are required to sit the advanced class.
+and you have to pay for the test+
is there any other kind?
but the sentiment is spot on. theres precious little chance it will get you a job. those come based on the quality of your work. but if you're looking for work as a trainer in Apple's Pro Apps, then getting certified as a Trainer is a step in the right direction, and for that you probably need user certification
http://www.apple.com/software/pro/training/enduser.html
http://www.apple.com/software/pro/training/trainer.html