This category is for directors who have won the Academy Award for Best Achievement in Directing. The Best Director did not necessarily direct the winning film of the Best Picture award.

Directors who have won multiple times will have multiple years next to their names. If two directors are listed for one year, that would indicate either co-directing of a motion picture or a tie in votes. Please note: In 1927/28 they awarded two Best Director Awards; one for drama and one for comedy.