From what I have been told, $15 bucks buys you the right to take a common sense test from the MSPA of little merit except to "prove you are serious about being a shopper." Most MSPA Gold shoppers got their certifications by attending workshops. From what I have been told of those they found the socializing with fellow shoppers and getting to meet schedulers from the few MSPA MSPs that came were the highlights of their $100 + travel + hotel for a couple of days venture. I have not heard from anyone who has done the Gold DVD that they passed it. There was one member here who took it and did not pass so was going to try to retake it. I don't believe she has posted here since to let us know how it went.
I am not certified and have no intention of seeking certification from any organization. I have been shopping quite a while and have rarely if ever been aware of certified friends being offered anything superior to what I am offered. Build a reputation for being reliable and thorough and timely and that will get you the jobs.