There are many paths to becoming a DBA and you see several of these routes when reading SSC regularly, so don't worry that your path might not be 'correct'.

Over the past few years, with my current employer I have studied SQL Server as best as I can. This has involved the use of VMs, watching an inordinate number of free webcasts on areas of interest to myself, purchasing a large number of text books and spreading the knowledge gained within the company.

The upshot of this is that I can demonstrate an interest and enthusiasm in SQL server where the lack of qualifications and 'real-world' experience would be a disadvantage.

And the result of this is that next month (after I attend SQLPass - mainly at my expense, yet another example of how keen I am) I start with another company which utilises SQL Server to a far higher degree than my current employer. I will make the move I was planning to - from a Visual Basic Developer and "Accidental DBA" to an 'official' DBA. My new employer knows the gaps in my knowledge, but was more interested in how much I wanted to learn and how willing I am to share what I learn.

The Microsoft exams are a good framework - I used the study materials to at least have knowledge of the areas, so I understood the terminology. You may not be able to actually use some areas (for example, clustering simply isn't possible where I work now, but is essential in my next job), but you should at least know which features exist and some basic information about them.

If you're interested in the subject, willing to learn, willing to share and willing to admit when you don't know or understand then that will put you in an excellent position for future development.

Ask questions and supply all of the relevant information. Answer questions where you believe that you can, and be patient. I'm still horrified at times by the amount that I don't know, but I can look back and see how much I have learned.