I just started dance lessons about 5 months ago. I take 1-2 private lessons a week and group classes about 3-4 week in swing, tango, and latin/rhythm.

Does anyone know how long it generally takes to achieve full blown Bronze level status? And how do you officially achieve that, do you have to take an exam at some point and have an examiner judge your ability. Do you have to coordinate with your instructor/studio for that?

Right now my private lessons are really casual, laid back and fun, so if I want to get more serious about dance I assume I'd have to bring up the bronze certification question with my 1-1 instructor?

Any feedback would be great, thanks!!

I wouldn't really set my metrics on studio medal exams. It's really bias towards them keeping your morale up to keep you as their customer. Also note, medal exams are designed for students as a tool for them to stay on progress. Only you can determine your competency level. I would recommend talking with your instructor and ask him what criterias he uses to judge if you are competent at whatever level.